How much does app development cost?
Hi everyone! Is there a difference between Android and iOS app development?
Expert Answers
Sort by Date
Sort by Votes
May 15, 2018
Like anything, the quality of the product will be reflected in the price tag. There are developers who will claim they can make you an app for $1,000, and perhaps they can, but how good will that app truly be? Is that app tested across multiple devices? Is it offshored to developers with barely any experience developing? Is it native or non-native? Does the developer even understand your business needs? This is probably the most important thing to consider when talking about low quotes: Most developers speak code. That translates into misunderstandings and incorrectly designed features. A good development agency will, therefore, have people who can bridge the gap between business goals and development realities.
For those reasons (among others) the cost of an app from a reputable provider would probably start in the 70k range, but realistically be much higher, and more importantly, be completely dependent upon a highly detailed spec sheet. The cost will include covering the rates for the different people involved in the project: coders, marketers, designers, project planners, QA, etc. It will probably include a buffer zone above that to cover basic changes to features that clients will invariably make. It most certainly will include building the app with the correct architecture in mind, thereby allowing it to scale.
I'm not sure what you're asking exactly, but I think the meat of your question is "how much should I quote people?" For that, my answer would be this: When developing a method for quoting, I would recommend setting your hourly rate (and the rate of any other person involved in the project), then estimating how long each feature on the spec sheet will cost to develop (taking into account that vaguely worded features get quoted higher, because vagueness means that the client has not thought this through properly and will surely end up filling in the gaps as you develop and deliver), and then adding on extra time for planning and anticipated changes.
Also read, https://artjoker.net/blog/how-much-does-it-cost-to-develop-a-mobile-app/ for more information.
Dec 19, 2017
Hi Robert.
There definitely is a huge difference between Android and iOS app development. In simple words, both of them are different operating systems and have different IDE's and processes to implement the same functionalities. iOS is often a little harder and hence iOS developers charge a little higher than Android developers (not always though, a number of factors decide this).
Talking about the cost of development in general, you can get an app for whatever budget you set depending on your finances. the costs usually don't exceed it. It's like when you go to buy a house, you set the budget and the agent shows you houses based on that budget. Mobile apps work in a similar fashion, you set a budget and the app developers tell you what kind of app you can get out of that budget.
The difference in the cost of development is usually based on the following factors:
1. Target Platform: The more platforms you want to target, the higher will be your costs. Also, as mentioned earlier, developing iOS apps might cost a little more than Android or Windows apps.
2. UI/UX: The overall app design too has a significant effect on the cost of development. An average design will cost a lot less than an impressive and elaborate design.
3. App Features: Another factor that has a very direct impact on the cost. The more features your app has, the more complicated its development process will become and hence the higher it will cost.
4. Infrastructure: Your server setup, storage requirements, database requirements, communication with the app, user management settings etc. all add up to your costs. The higher your requirements, the higher your costs.
5. Developer Costs: Again, the costs of your developers will depend upon their experience and the region they're based in. Experienced developers in USA will be almost three times as expensive as those in India or China (don't worry, this is because of the conversion rates and the value of the dollar in these countries. Developers in these countries might even be a lot better than those in the former)
These are only a few primary factors that affect the cost of app development and there are quite some others too that would affect it. Though not as significant as these.
In conclusion, you can get yourself an app for $500 or even $500,000, it all depends on your budget and what you expect out of it.
If you need a more detailed idea, feel free to get in touch with our iOS App Developers or Android App Developers here http://www.matridtech.net/ for a free consultation.
Nov 1, 2017
Hi,
There is not much difference in native Android and iOS app development. App development work needs professional and user friendly design, efficient back-end and Adnroid/ iOS coding before being up-loaded to app store. Development cost starts from US$1000.- onwards.
Regards,
Mukul
Dec 18, 2017
Hello,
We could make mobile apps in two ways;
1) In Native Framework: The apps will be developed in the native framework of Android and IOS. It will have enhanced performance and security.
2) Hybrid app: In a Hybrid framework, the app could be developed on a single framework and can be availed in multiple platforms such as Android, IOS, and Windows etc. It will cost very less compared to native frameworks and the time of development is a short period. The Cons are, it will not be as secure and performable compared with a native framework. But the Hybrid framework is widely used for projects which do not need high performance and security.
By the way, the cost of development in both frameworks depends on the specifications and purpose of the app. We could have further discussion regarding the same if you drop a line or ring a bell in the below contact details.
Regards
Anjum
+91 79026 24818
anjum@wiinnova.com
www.wiinnova.com
Apr 11, 2018
Although Android app development is usually a bit more expensive, it really depends. You should probably check out cross-platform app development cause this way you'd save time and costs - https://mobilunity.com/blog/comparison-of-xamarin-developers-salary-in-different-countries/. In any case, you'd miss out on users if you are developing an app for one OS only.
May 9, 2019
If you do not want a customized app, then you can look at some of the CRM (Customer Relationship Management) software - some of the CRM apps are quite detailed recording customer details and messages. If you want to have billing included, you can choose a CRM app with integration to either an accounting software or invoicing software.
Cost of a single or both software may be a few hundred to a couple of thousand dollars - there may be a consultant cost for installation and implementation, which will be additional.
Customized software will cost you no less than $5,000.00 and it will take quite some time to get the app coded and implemented. Off-the-shelf software for CRM app (simple ones) probably will be faster in acquiring and implementing them.
Of course, you need to look for a reliable app and a reliable consultant to install and implement.
Good luck and wish you every success in getting the right app.
Oct 31, 2017
Hi Robert
Although both Android and iOS are based on Linux, they are different operating systems. You have to develop 2 applications even if the front end and functionality is the same, the Operating Systems means you have to develop them differently.
Any project for mobile app does have some common components but not as much as you think! We tend to do the following:
1. Requirements Capture - Define and document functional requirements of the client (iOS and Android will be the same)
2. Design Capture - Define User Interface and desired interactions and map out process (iOS and Android have some common elements but not 100%)
3. Coding - This is where you really diverge
4. Testing - You are testing the functionality against part 1 but you have to run tests for each operating system
5. Submission - You have to submit your App to App Store and Google Play. Each has different process and costs.
The actual cost of development depends on points 1 and 2 (functional and design specification), which determines the time you need to do steps 3 and 4 (Coding & Testing), so unlike buying a car, or a kilo of meat, it is not easy to give you an approximate price.
In Spain the cost of development is anything from 700€ upwards (per operating system per App) whilst you can do this in India or Asia for about 1/2 the cost but then good luck with documentation and support! Not because they are not capable of it, but the time difference and language barriers can become friction points and add to your ongoing costs and maintenance.
Also do not forget that every time a new version of iOS or Android comes out (currently once a year), you need to review and test your product to make sure it all works OK. You will also want to make enhancements and add new features as the product matures and new operating system versions offer new functionality, so developing an App is not a one-off Cost.
I hope this helps and would be very happy to provide you with specific pricing if you can provide us with your requirements. Please contact us via http://www.cognisant-hosting.com/
Regards
Nov 6, 2017
It's a good question. Developing an Android app can cost from $1.000 but there are many factors that affect the cost. For example, the location of the developer, the complexity of the app. The cost completely depends on what are the features and functionalities actually you want.
Jan 3, 2018
It's not so expensive at all. I was using https://shakuro.com/mobile-dev.html to make my own mobile application. It's rather interesting and useful when you want to create something. I don't know exact cost but they provide their price list.
Jan 29, 2018
Actually, mobile app development cost varies widely and there are many factors that affect it. The primary factors influencing development costs include platform, functionality, design, developer.
For example, on average costs from $3000 (simple apps - about 1-2 months). In order to get more info, apply to SteelKiwi - https://steelkiwi.com/services/.
Feb 25, 2020
There are various factors that influence the cost development estimation-
1- Vendor type and location
2- Complexity and the number of app features
3- Back-end infrastructure and connected APIs
4- Development approach (native, mobile web, hybrid, etc)
5- It depends on the technology you use for app development.
6- It depends on the location of your development team.
However, if you want the precise estimation for your app development project, then you must hire- https://www.galaxyweblinks.com/mobile-app-development, as the cost for app development might vary from basic to advanaced level-
Basic features could vary from $5,000 to $11,000 for both iOS and android development platform.
Medium and average features mobile app development cost: $15,000 to $25,0000.
Advanced features could include- $25,000 to $50,000.
Sep 14, 2018
It depends on the technology you use for app development. iOS developers get the highest salary, then goes Android. Xamarin, technology for hybrid apps, comes at the lowest price.
The second factor that influences the cost is the location of your development team. Salary of an app developer in the UK is much higher than the salary of his/her colleague in India. We did research about app development cost, here you can find the differences in rates among European countries: https://qubit-labs.com/app-development-cost/
Dec 2, 2018
There is a vast difference in Android and iOS development. It depends on the platform, UI/UX design, app features, and developer cost. iOS development is more expensive than Android development. To know more about, contact https://www.trootech.com.
May 13, 2019
Well, how much does app development cost you will always depend on the platform you select, and features you need as per your business model. And the answer to your next question is yes, of course, there is a huge difference between Android and iOS app development (they are a brother from another mother, just kidding). To get expert advice & have word with our VP Deep at +91 99137 96777 or you can drop him an email at deep.karia@ibiixo.com. He is a good man, he will surely help you.
By the way, you can have a look at https://www.ibiixo.com for anything related to software development.
Jan 20, 2020
Cost of any app development totally depends upon the customization of app, iOS Application Development Company
iOS Application Development Company can give you a good idea about the cost of any app after getting information about your plan.
Jan 24, 2020
Mobile app development is an intricate process and contains a number of stages to have a fully- functioning mobile application. The app development cost mostly depends on the type of app you are building and what features and functionalities you are Including.
But, apart from that, below I have described all the factors you must consider while you are heading towards Android mobile app development.
**The Complexity of the app**
Now there are a dozen categories of the app in the market and some apps are basic whereas some apps are complex and provide more features. Which adds their costs accordingly.
For example, an app that contains basic features that makes the app static and offline is less costly. But if you are making an app that connects to the server for data management and requires databases is costly.
For example, if you will add geolocation, real-time tracking, QR code, Rating system, Live Chat & more then your app will have great appeal but it will add extra cost to your mobile app development.
**In house development, Offshore development or freelancing**
The choice among these three will have a major impact on the final cost of your mobile app development. However, if you make a mistake of hiring the wrong developer you might have to regret that step.
It’s up to you if within a short time you can create a whole development team then in house development is preferred.
But if you are thinking an offshore development then outsourcing is the best option. The cost of outsourcing in India varies according to where the company is located. Offshore app development is the safest and productive approach in mobile app development. It’s best if you find an experienced app development company for your app development.
Freelancing, on the other hand, is the cheapest yet riskiest way to develop your mobile app. So it is also one of the factors in the cost of app development.
**Visual design**
Design is the most imperative part of mobile app development. If your UI design is subpar then no matter how much features your app renders most of them will uninstall your app within days.
Now, the cost of app development depends on what type of design you want to implement. If you want your app to be simple then the simple design will be best for you which costs you less. On the other hand, if you don’t want to compromise on the aesthetic levels of your app, customization of the design would be best the option. But it comes at a greater cost.
**Third-party Integration**
Retention of the users is the most important funnel for app owners. So, if your app doesn’t consist right integration in place, your app may seem rejections. People don’t want to experience tool fatigue from having so many apps on their smartphones. So make sure you provide everything in your app which your competitors don’t.
To illustrate, let’s consider our app is B2C and used as a lifestyle aid, consider other common apps people uses every day such as;
Social Media,
Music
Payments
Messaging
So, Third-party integration is added to the cost of app development.
**Back-end development**
Now imagine if you are building an app for food delivery. If you are providing a big platform for restaurant app owners, then you will have to build multiple apps i.e customer, delivery boy app, and restaurant panel or iPad app.
In this case, you are super admin so you will have to create your own admin panel as well to manage and monitor all the activities and purchase done at restaurants. Hence, those apps that require a panel that cost you more than simple apps.
**Maintenance**
Now everyone who wants to have an app for their business has one question in common.
“ Why do I have to keep paying once my app is published?”
But It’s a truth that has to be accepted. The publication isn’t the end of the story for app development. Your users will expect a daily user update otherwise they will uninstall your app.
If your app depends on a server to store & save data like user records, or payment history, you'll also have to pay to manage this information.
Depending on the complexity of your application, you can also incur surplus costs for servers, emergency maintenance, push notifications, payment processing, and more.
A golden rule of thumb is to budget 20% of the cost of initial development when calculating how much it will cost for the app. If your initial development costs are $10,000, you can reasonably expect to spend about $2,000 per year to maintain your app.
hence there is no black or white answer to the question. the app development cost varies from $15k to $70k
I hope it helped
Thank you!
SOURCE: https://www.excellentwebworld.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-create-an-app/
Jan 30, 2020
Hello Robert,
As I have found your questions here about the how much does app development cost?
It is very searchable question now because every businesses going to make a mobile app for the business. They are moving their business offline to online through mobile app.
Here I will assist you and give you resources about the app development cost.
Recently, I have published a article which is very in-depth and detail full article.
Kindly find the resource url: https://www.appcluesinfotech.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-make-a-mobile-app-in-2020/.
When you read above article you will get clear and exact idea about the how much does app development cost?
Jan 31, 2020
Well, there is no fixed budget for developing a mobile app. The cost varies with multiple factors.
I have listed below the pointers that determine the total price for your Application.
1. Platforms (Hybrid or Native)
For building a Hybrid app, the estimated cost would be around USD 12,000
For building a Native app (both iOS & Android), the estimated cost would be USD 18,000
2. Depending upon the features & functionalities
The cost of creating an app varies with tailor-made features & functionalities. As the complexity increases, the cost will shoot up as well. This is because, as the complexity level enhances, development and testing tasks will increase.
3. Server Hosting & Maintenance
One of the prime factors that determine the price of building an app is server hosting services.
The hosting service depends on the application to run, resources, workloads and lots many. The different Server hosting charges differently which further adds up to the cost.
4. Number of project resources
Based on the app development resources, the cost will fluctuate.
5. App Development Company Demographics
The region (location and country) of development impacts the development budget. The reason being, the hourly charges of building an app differ with regions.
Building an app in the United States and Australia cost you higher than India.
6. App security
The app developers need to look for loopholes with the latest security tools to address and fix the security issues. So, the cost of building an app further increases with security practices.
All the aforementioned prices are roughly calculated for creating an app. The actual development pricing would vary with your tailor-made requirements.
Get in touch with the app development expert and discuss your business requirements to get the exact cost.
Mar 30, 2020
Hello Robert!
There are a lot of things to consider. Among them are as follows:
1. Project complexity
2. Development approach
3. Developers you are going to hire, and others.
Still, if you want to reduce your costs I recommend paying attention to Progressive Web Apps.
They really provide customers with great user experience, businessmen with cost-effectiveness, and developers with time reducing.
Let's start with the advantages for businessmen:
1. Businessmen have to spend relatively low development costs.
2. With smooth installation, users need less time that leads to user experience and conversions as a result.
3. Push notifications help business owners reach the target audience thus increasing conversions.
If you want to find more about the PWA development costs, there is a great article for you: https://www.codica.com/blog/progressive-web-application-development-cost-of-services-and-main-tools/