Redbytes UK SEO, Author at Mobile App Development Company UK

12 Biggest App Marketing Mistakes That Will Kill Your Brand

Posted on January 21, 2020 by Redbytes UK SEO

Building a good mobile app takes a lot of time (in months or years), skills and industry knowledge. However, a mobile app that works perfectly should have high potential for downloads. If there are not enough users downloading it, or the app is losing its existing customers, it is not worth your time and efforts.

A mediocre app fails to generate more users and revenue – which is a massive disappointment for small business owners. Therefore, a good mobile app needs great marketing.

To learn mobile app marketing, the best approach is to learn all those giant common marketing mistakes that can cost you a fortune. So what are those common app marketing mistakes your marketers are likely to do?

To help you avoid a debacle and get better results from your marketing campaigns, we have listed in this article top app marketing mistakes that may kill your brand.

1) Poor Focus on User Engagement

In a race to attract more users, one of the mistakes made is not looking after current app user base. Ignorance is an enemy to your brand, so don’t ignore the idea of engaging your existing app users.

Even though the target of your mobile app is to acquire more users, a study says nearly 72% of your existing customers in your marketing and sales funnel are likely to share their experience with 6 people or more.

It might be a little challenging to engage converted users, but it is worthy of time and efforts. Hence, incorporate your loyal happy users in your fruitful mobile app marketing strategy.

Read Also: 10 Ways to Raise Fund for your App Startup

2) Lack of Personalization

Who doesn’t want to feel important and appreciated with personalization? Sadly, not approaching mobile app users with unique messages to treat them well is an inexcusable mistake ruining your brand survival.

The only way to make customers feel special is sending personalized greetings and messages. If you have a mobile app to engage with your customers, personalization especially matters and potentially helps. In its absence, they feel abandoned as if you don’t value having them on your app.

Make sure you have sufficient data about their geographic location, approach, behavior and contexts. You can then utilize them to create effective marketing campaigns and send personalized, most related messages. Doing so will make users fall for your brand.

3) Interruption of Massive Inquiry

Anything in excess would decimate the motive behind having it in place – a horrid marketing mistake for your brand. The same thing applies to the approach of fetching enough data from customers to personalize user experience.

Push notifications and messages only show its impact when app users are asked to share information in the right moments, and not too frequently. If you greedily interrupt customers initial journey by asking too many questions, they are likely to feel suspicious as to why you seek too much details so soon.

Let users explore your app and they will willingly submit their data as soon as they feel safe and satisfied. To make it smart, use third-party registration solution that doesn’t ask users to enter the email address.

4) Desire to be Omnipresent

It is acknowledged that Omnichannel marketing campaign is a highly successful and smart approach as it reaches the right audience at a right time. However, this may turn the table sometimes because integrated marketing campaign means being at too many places and social platforms.

This may annoy users even if the campaign consists of the right message. Drop the belief that creating too many social accounts or reaching the audience through print media can be an effective holistic marketing tactic.

Instead, focus on a few good prolific, high-caliber channels where your industrious marketers are most likely to connect well.

5) Excluding ASO Marketing Tactics

Optimizing your app for commonly used keywords in order to rank high in app store search results is crucial. Apptentive data unfolds almost 63% of users directly turn to app stores to discover a new app.

Ignoring ASO tactics and rules during conversion means missing out on massive sales. ASO is fundamentally driven by:

Keywords
Title and description
Snapshots/videos
Reviews/ratings

Understand how target users search for similar apps and apply right keywords in the app Title and description so that app store algorithms can easily recognize the app. Additionally, uploading screenshots and videos with in-app features and UI can also help users grasp what your app is about.

Since reviews written by real users are a strong social proof, users often view reviews and ratings before downloading an app.

6) Ineffective Low-Quality Content

Content is the backbone of your mobile app’s life and it is important to step out of the ordinary while creating unique content. Many app owners create content for the sake of it and often forget to make content that is so meaningful and exciting it truly connects with the audience.

If you don’t believe in content-is-the-king notion, the chances are you will end up with the content that is pretty clichéd and drab, and leaves no impression.

Your prospect customers will never appreciate banal ideas. Serve the kind of content that speaks of your product and service quality. In fact, content could be the best ever marketing weapon that ultimately becomes your brand voice.

Read Also: Mobile App Marketing Funnel: Converting Users into Customers

7) Not Staying Abreast with the Competition

The best marketing strategy is the one that incorporates thoughts and fear of competition. Ignoring your nearest competitors would make marketing the app quite challenging.

For best results, you must study the right and wrong, the good and bad of the competition. You can learn a lot from their potential mistakes and effective working plans. Eventually you can adapt to the best for your own campaigns.

8) Unkempt Landing Pages

Having mobile app landing pages that look disorganized, dull or shallow will surely never connect with users. The moment they open your app, they expect a bag of delightful surprises and exciting stunts, some freebies and opening tours.

Your landing page is crucial for all it is worth as it gives a good idea about customer’s initial journey. Make it content-rich, pleasant and smooth. If your opening is great, you will see more subscribers, followers, fans and prospect sales.

9) Not Using Tracking and KPI Analysis Tools

If you can’t track success, you can’t see success – it is that simple. Marketing campaigns of mobile apps especially rely on minute analysis and measurement of campaign performance and progress.

Instead of monitoring revenue from marketing campaigns, it is more fruitful to keep an eye on parameters like user engagement, page views, special interests, target channels, interaction time, email open rates and more.

These KPIs help develop clear understanding of what customers like and prefer their favorite engagement platforms, prospect user location, etc. Use trackers and analytics system to know whether or not your tactics are working and where you still need to improve.

You can alter your tactics accordingly and measure its impact. Tweak your banner content, recommendations or push message and see how it goes.

10) Neglecting your Niche

Another big mobile app marketing mistake is marketing your app to a specific demographic and neglecting your own niche. An extensive group of users is too hard to focus on. Instead of spreading thin across the wide spectrum, ascertain your own niche.

Dig and probe a little deep into your target audience. Find out all about their lifestyle habits, hobbies, hangout places, education level, phobias, dreams and goals. What places they would love to visit? What devices they like most? What is their location?

How do they make their living? How much they usually earn? What influences their online shopping and investment decisions?

11) Not Working on Customer Feedback

Understandably enough, bad reviews are the always dreaded, but fearing negative comments does not lead you to your marketing goals. Customer feedback is the sign that users actually interact with your app.

In fact, negative reviews offer a way to take it as inputs and improve your business practices accordingly. Take it seriously and work on earning more positive reviews. Go ahead and ask happy users to leave their views about their experience with the app.

12) Zero Collaboration with Expert Leaders

If you are not getting effective results from dynamic, industrious marketing professionals working round the clock, it is time to collaborate with experts in the business.

Today marketing as a whole has evolved greatly and app marketing itself requires niche skills. It takes a lot of creative ability and technical finesse and time to understand effective channels and their features.

Collaborating with a marketing media expert can help you hit desired campaign goals and rise to the top.

Read Also: Effective App Launch Marketing Strategies That Drive Success

Conclusion

We hope you got the entire gist from these top app marketing mistakes and possible solutions for your mobile app. Learning what not to do will help you steer towards what can be done. Consider these major mistakes before planning your next mobile app marketing campaign to keep at bay any disaster and achieve business objectives.

10 Ways to Raise Fund for Your App Startup

Posted on January 15, 2020 by Redbytes UK SEO

Did you know that the global mobile app market generates nearly $60 billion in revenue every year? Also, many existing businesses are investing in the mobile app platform to diversify their business and create a wider reach. Ecommerce stores have apps that enable customers to shop from their mobile phones.

Several app-only businesses rely only on this platform to connect with their customers. Hence, it is clear that there is a huge scope for growth and development in the mobile app sector.

However, most of the brilliant mobile app ideas die quickly due to the lack of finance. The solution to this problem is to find a way to fund your mobile app.

Do you too have a great idea for a mobile app, but are not able to bring it to life because of the lack of finances?

In this blog, we will discuss 10 different ways in which you can raise funds for your app startup. But before we go into various mobile app funding options, we shall discuss the various points to keep in mind when you request for funding.

How to Ace Your ‘Request for a Mobile App Funding’ Pitch

(i) Know your mobile app – inside out

First, you need to be very clear about the features, functions, and audience of your app. You should be able to describe the functions from the perspective of the user – how it will benefit the user.

(ii) Analyze Your Competitors

There may be lots of other apps offering the same or similar services that you are planning to provide with your new mobile application. Study your competitors, find out the gaps in their services and see how you can fill that gap and capture the market.

(iii) Fine-tune your elevator pitch

You may just have 15 to 20 minutes to convince the investor to put down money on your app startup. In such a short span, you need to generate interest, capture their attention, and make them believe in your mobile application. Keep on working on your pitch till it is concise, informative, and attention-grabbing.

(iv) Have a prototype ready

A prototype can help you clearly describe your mobile application to potential investors. The prototype should have all the proposed features and their intended functions.

(v) Brand your app

Create a domain name and a landing page for your mobile application before you approach the investors. These steps legitimize your business and also create a favorable impression on the investors.

Read Also: Mobile App Marketing Funnel [Converting Users into Customers

10 Ways to Raise Funds for your App Startup

1) Crowdfunding

One of the best ways to fund your mobile startup is crowdfunding. In this mobile app funding method, you approach the public and ask them to invest in your mobile app. In return, you can provide shares of your business or offer products at a discounted price.

The most popular crowdfunding platform is Kickstarter. You can create interesting and attractive campaigns on this platform to convince the crowd to invest in your idea. Seedr is another crowdfunding platform where people can buy shares in exchange for investment.

2) Startup Investors

Approach Angel investors for mobile app funding. Angel investors are individuals who have a high net worth or business persons who are interested in personally funding startups. Angel investors are willing to invest a large amount and take the risk.

But, they will also expect higher equity in the business. Angels generally focus on sectors and domains that they have expertise in. They may also offer business advice and mentor you.

3) Business Grants

Check out business grants offered by the government. Many such programs have been designed to improve the business in certain sectors. However, you need to ensure that your mobile app checks all the criteria listed in the grant specifications.

4) Get a Partner

If you are finding it difficult to fund your mobile app startup, you can get yourself a partner. It is best if you look for a partner who is not from your industry, but comes from a different domain and is willing to invest in your mobile app idea.

In exchange, you can offer customer referrals, co-marketing opportunities, shares, and more. You can also partner with businesses to fund your mobile application. Many traditional businesses have a strong foundation but haven’t explored the digital space.

Partnering with existing businesses will help you get a flying start on your mobile application, but you should also be ready to share the app platform with the business partner.

5) Venture Capital Funding

Venture Capital Funding Obtaining mobile app funding from Venture Capitalists (VCs) is the fastest way to develop, publish, and expand your mobile app. You need to actively look for seed investors who are interested in mobile apps.

VCs have made some of the largest funding for startups, starting from thousands to millions of dollars. The catch is that the VC will expect to be a part of the board and have more control over the business.

However, if you’re lucky, you can also be mentored by these business experts. If you are ready for their high involvement for the high investment, approaching a venture capitalist is a Capital idea!

Read Also: Importance of MVP in Mobile App Development

6) Bootstrapping

Bootstrapping refers to the self-funding. You can invest your savings, salary, investment, or other means of income in your mobile app. This method of mobile app funding is usually done by working professionals who have a mobile app idea.

You can build the basic prototype or release the app and then approach for funding as your app grows and expands.

7) Bank Loan

If you have a reliable business plan with projections, then you can approach your bank for a business loan. You should do extensive competitor research before you prepare your business plan.

While applying for business loans, you should also check if there are any government subsidies and schemes for the sector in which you are planning to launch your app.

Startups may also get loans with no or minimal interest or without security. Explore all the available options offered by the lender before you apply for the business loan.

8) Awards, Campaigns, and Competitions

Watch out for startup campaigns and competitions and take part in them. PepsiCo10 program organized by the international cool drink seller Pepsi invited startups to send their app ideas. The winners got to meet the leadership team and digital influencers in New York.

A campaign called “MomInspired” was run by Huggies. This campaign invited parents to share product ideas. Innovate UK offers awards in various startup categories. You can visit their website to check if your app idea matches their criteria.

Winners and up to 4 runner ups also get an opportunity to showcase their prototype to corporate, public authorities, and potential investors. You need to check if your mobile app idea is in line with the categories of the award.

9) Your Network

If you have a network of friends and family who believe in your mobile app idea, you can request them for mobile app funding. You can either get loans from your friends or offer a share in the profits in exchange for their investment. These initial investments may not be huge but can total to a sizeable amount.

10) Initial Coin Offering

Initial Coin Offering is a mobile app funding option for blockchain-based startups. You can raise the initial funds and then create the prototype. The catch in this method of mobile app funding is that the capital is usually in the form of cryptocurrencies, which can be a little risky.

Read Also: Effective App Launch Marketing Strategy That Drive Success

Conclusion

It requires a lot of time, effort, resources, and technical expertise to build an in-house mobile app development team. To get the best results for your app idea, you need to partner with an agency that has the experience and expertise in this domain.

Redbytes is one of the top mobile development companies in the United Kingdom. We have created hundreds of mobile apps for iOS, Windows, and Android platforms. If you have a “million dollar” idea for a mobile app and want to breathe life into it, we are there to provide all the support. Get in touch with us today to book a consultation.

Top 10 Mobile App Design Trends for 2023

Posted on January 9, 2020 by Redbytes UK SEO

A market study found that more than 87% of mobile users prefer to browse mobile apps rather than go to the browser. The rapid increase in the number of mobile users coupled with the convenience of anytime anywhere access has accelerated the reach and popularity of mobile applications.

Whether you already have a mobile app for your business or are planning to have one, then this blog is a must-read. We have collated the top mobile app design trends for 2023 in this blog.

Incorporating these trends in your mobile app will help improve your mobile app’s popularity, reach, and performance. And the best part is that it all converts into a profitable business.

Top Features of Mobile Apps

Trends may come and go, but certain attributes and functions always need to be at the core of your mobile app design. These core attributes are evergreen and help your app perform well in all economic climates.

So, even if you plan to incorporate the latest mobile app design trends, you need to ensure that they fit into these essential attributes, which are:

Simplicity: It is one of the key factors essential to deliver a great user experience.

Accessibility: The app needs to be accessible by all intended users on all kinds of mobile devices.

Reversibility: It denotes the ability of the mobile application to recover from errors.

Feedback loop: It is important to have a feedback system that will let you know the efficacy and issues in your app. Feedback aids in continuous improvement.

Affordable: The app needs to be affordable, both for the user and the business.

Read Also: Impact of Minimalist UI Design

Best Mobile App Design Trends For 2023

1) Data Driven Design

It is one of the top trends of this year. Designers are exploring more about designs that performed well to implement them in upcoming mobile app designs. The data is derived from data analytics, machine learning, and deep analytics.

Various methods such as surveys, app analysis, behavioral research, A/B testing, and questionnaires are used to collate information. Other than these methods, analytics tools, techniques, and quantitative methods are also used to derive data-based design solutions.

All this data will give you information regarding user interaction, preference, function, and feedback that you can use to improve your mobile app.

2) App Login Authentication

We have always been using the user name and password for login. In some apps, this step is followed by a verification code. It takes some time for the user to get the verification code, add it and then enter the app.

The latest trend is using face recognition authentication. As more mobile devices are being developed with this feature, this app login authentication trend is a natural offset of this development.

3) Storytelling

2020 will see an increase in visual storytelling guides and techniques that captivate the user’s attention and keep bringing them back to your mobile platform. Storytelling also helps build the brand and improve user experience.

The mobile design is based on a visual framework that tells a story to the user, customizes their experience, and personalizes their mobile app journey. Storytelling is enhanced by visual imagery, creative content, and attractive animations.

4) Personalization

Impress your users with a personalized welcome and location-relevant content. You can greet return users with special attention and provide suggestions and recommendations based on their preferences, search history, user profile, and other details.

Most websites have cookies that track your navigation, search details, and your activity on their website. This data plus machine learning tools and deep learning techniques will help you deliver a personalized experience to your mobile app user.

For example, Starbucks stores all the details of the previous orders, so users can just browse them instead of checking the entire menu while placing a new order.

5) AI & Conversational Interface

This mobile app design trend has been steadily gaining popularity over the last few years. It is important to create a conversational interface where mobile app visitors can ask questions, clarify their doubts, or give their feedback.

These conversations happen through chatbots that are AI-powered and manned by customer care staff of the company.

Read Also: Effective App Launch Marketing Strategies that can Drive Success

6) Animation and 3D Graphics

One of the key trends of mobile app design is animation and 3D graphics. Animated illustrations are a fun and attractive way to share information and captivate the audience. Dynamic functional animations include transitions, button presses, and other elements.

You can use animation elements to illuminate a text or an image, provide a visualization effect, or create a dynamic user experience. When it comes to 3D images, there is an argument between great user experience and higher load time.

Though a heavy image can slow down the page loading speed, it enhances the user experience. Three dimensional images allow the user to visualize the product and gather the details. However, to ensure the best app performance, you need to make optimum use of 3D graphics and animations.

7) White Space, Fresh Color Palates, Gradients & Overlapping Effect

The raging mobile design trend is the minimalistic design, which features a lot of white space. Design elements like gradients, fresh color palates, and overlapping effects coupled with typography create a stunning user interface.

The expanse of white on the web page draws the eye to the text or image placed on it. This design can be further enhanced with dark or light backgrounds with gradients of fresh colors. The use of overlapping text and images further adds to the minimalistic design.

The use of these design elements helps create a clear, concise, and clutter-free interface. The best example of the minimalistic design is the “FB5” design of Facebook. In this design, the top heavy blue block was removed and the interface was adapted to a dark mode that enhanced video-watching experience.

Another example of the minimalistic design is the Office 365 icon. The latest design has abstract shapes, lesser text area, and a more geometric design. The rich color and texture highlight the icon.

8) Navigational Elements Placement

Creative placement of navigational elements is one of the popular trends of this year. Traditionally, mobile app designs had a Menu bar that contained all the navigational buttons.

Many apps had small icons for the categories. The current trend involves having hidden, vertical, parallax, infinite, horizontal, or modular scrolling options.

Another trend is to have the navigation bar disappear, if not used for a long time. Apple, Meizu, and Huawei have gone a step further in their mobile apps. These mobile apps don’t have a Home button. Users can use swipe or other key gestures to navigate.

9) Typography

Typography is one of the essential elements of mobile app design. The size, shape, and design of the font first grab the user’s attention before the content does.

Typography can be used to focus on key points and improve user experience. Motion-based and 3D typography is also quickly gaining popularity.

10) Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) help the user get a realistic picture of the digital world. It helps create an immersive user experience and also enables users to grab more information quickly. Augmented reality can be used in various ways depending on the purpose of your mobile application.

Google Maps, for example, uses AR to simulate user behavior. The top half of the screen displays the real location while the bottom half shows the map. A large 3D arrow helps the user navigate. Augmented reality is also used in online stores selling sunglasses and eyeglasses.

This technology enables the user to check the fit and look of the eyewear before purchasing it. There’s another Google app – Just a Line that’s making the best use of AR. Designed to support multi-user augmented reality interaction, this application lets the user capture a picture using the camera.

The user can then tap the screen and draw anything on the screen. Identify the best way to incorporate these technologies into your mobile app to deliver a stellar user experience.

Read Also: 11 Steps to create a Mobile Application

Final Words

A mobile app is a great asset for your business. It not only helps you reach out to a wider audience, but also allows the user to always be in contact with your business.

Whether you want to set up a new mobile application for your business or revamp your existing one to appeal to a larger audience, we can take care of it for you.

Our expertise in mobile technology and experience in designing the best mobile app designs can help you get the best value for your investment. For more details about mobile app designing, contact us.

How to Create an App Like MyFitnessPal [Cost Included]

Posted on January 3, 2020 by Redbytes UK SEO

Introducing MyFitnessPal

Founded by Albert Lee and Mike Lee way back in 2005, MyFitnessPal was a gift to Mike Lee’s fiancée because she wanted to lose weight before the wedding. Fast forward to 2013, a funding came through for approximately $ 18 million.

By the time John Doerr joined the team as an investor, the app already had 40 million downloads which later increased to 80 million registered users. The list of food items had also grown to over 6 million.

So, it is not really surprising at all that MyFitnessPal is arguably one of the most popular and sought after calorie counters right now. By downloading the application, you not only gain access to a reliable platform that recommends your daily calorie intake by checking your weight but also to a smartly designed exercise log and food diary too.

Why you need to create an app like MyFitnessPal?

Today, more and more people are concerned about their bodies and are willing to take responsibility to do something about it. And technology is closely entwined with how it has progressed so efficiently.

The current market snapshot shows that the space has a lot of potential. As it expands and grows further, more segregation in app categories have appeared, namely, workout and exercise apps, nutrition and diet apps and activity and log cracker apps.

Fitness applications in 2018 saw a revolution. With the advantage of having access to data rich features, the focus is now more on offering users a personalised coaching experience. What’s more, everything is available at the click of a button.

There are tons of fitness and workout apps entering the market in quick succession. Therefore, to be a part of the fitness app industry, you should be well-informed of the benchmark apps like MyFitnessPal and have a list of features handy.

Most importantly, you need to know what it is going to cost to create an app like MyFitnessPal? And get a team together to execute your plan and its development cost.

Read Also: Tips for Developing the Best Healthcare App

Steps to Create an App Like MyFitnessPal

You need to follow this checklist to ensure that your app development process progresses smoothly. Take a look.

Step 1: Select the category of fitness app that you wish to develop and simultaneously research on the current trends in the online fitness market. Have a SWOT and competitive analysis for ready reference.

Step 2: Shortlist the features that will be integrated into your fitness app. You can base this on developing an MVP type. This should be broken down in a phase-wise manner.

Step 3: Always ensure that the app that you wish to create is offering a problem resolution in the space that is yet to be solved. The functionalities should be designed accordingly and must stand out.

Step 4: Find a reliable developer or software development company for your project. Get an approximate estimate for your fitness application and timelines for development basis the features. Decide on a budget accordingly.

Step 5: Plan your application development stage-by-stage. This is the time when you also decide on the technology stack as that too has an implication on your overall budget.

The recommended stack that is similar to MyFitnessPal is as given below:

Sketch – UX/UI graphics design
Xcode – iPhone App Development
Java – Android app development
AWS – Database
Android Studio – Google PlayStore
Geo-fencing – Limiting Location-based functionality
Google Analytics – Gives the app performance
Google API
MEAN Stack
Stripe – Payment Gateway Provider
Firebase – Push Notification

Step 6: Once the app is ready stage-wise, ensure you set up a testing team to check the app’s readiness. Demo testing is very important to ascertain that all functionalities and features are working as per plan. Share the beta version with some actual target audience for reviews and feedback. Take corrective measures wherever possible.

Step 7: Once the app is ready after demo testing, let your development team publish it on the app stores. Keep track of your downloads, reviews and ratings.

Step 8: Keep fixing bugs and share app updates with your users regularly.

Essential Features of MyFitnessPal App

To create a mobile app like MyFitnessPal, you must have a list of features ready for incorporation. Take a look at our recommendations:

User App:

User Registration & Login: Offer regular sign-up through submitting email id or phone with a password combination. Additionally, you can also allow registrations using social profiles such as Facebook, Twitter, Gmail or Instagram.

User Profile: To create the user profile in an app like MyFtinessPal, the individual can submit his or her name, age, height, weight, preferences and any other relevant information that counts towards fitness goals.

Track Diet & Activity: The activity and diet tracking are key features of an app like MyFitnessPal. This should include activities like walking, running, cycling, swimming, calories burnt, steps made, miles run, etc. on any given day.

View Diet Plan: Tracking activities and diet are not enough. The user must be able to access a diet plan and the recommended calorie intakes for the day. This will be calculated based on preferences, user details, etc.

View& Manage Health Records: Since the user started using the fitness application, this feature will allow him or her to view his or her entire health history.

View Daily Progress Report: This progress report features shares a daily snapshot of the health status of the user.

View& Track Your Steps: Just like the user monitors the calories burnt on a daily basis, the steps feature allows them to keep a track of the number of steps walked every day.

View health Tips &Suggestions: It is important that your users are able to access health and fitness tips and suggestions on a regular basis through the app. Ensure that you build a section with relevant content.

Payment Gateways: Have a payment gateway feature integrated with the application if you are selling a premium version of the app or related health and fitness products that can be purchased directly from it.

Link External Wearable: Your application should be able to integrate with wearable devices and that user should be able to access basic tracking features of their daily activities and diet through it.

Admin:

Login: Develop a user-friendly admin panel that should help the administrator manage the dashboard.

Manage Dashboard: The dashboard feature is important as the administrator can manage all activities, edit, add and delete content and information, organise user profiles, etc.

Manage Users: Using this feature, the administrator can add or delete users.

Manage Payments: Payments such as commissions can be managed by the administrator using this feature.

Manage Plans: If your fitness application offers premium plans, then it can be managed using this feature.

Manage Notifications: Notifications are key to any application. The administrator can send out relevant notifications like app updates, new content, features, offers, and more using this functionality.

Manage Rewards: If you offer a rewards program, this feature can assist the administrator to manage it.

Manage Media: Manage your images and videos with the Manage Media feature.

Manage Subscriptions: If you have any subscriptions, the admin can manage it through this.

Read Also: Growing Prevalence of Healthcare Mobile Apps in UK

Advanced Features of Fitness App Like MyFitnessPal:

Paid Subscription: Paid subscriptions will be applicable to the premium version of the model and can be a part of the advanced feature that your fitness app offers.

Social Media Integration: Social media integrations with popular networks like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter are great for sharing your goal achievements.

Chat Module: Using this feature, you can chat with the trainers.

In-App Purchase: Shop for products using this feature.

You can deploy these recommended features in a phase-wise manner. Always use reports from your analytics to see what is working for your audience and build on from there.

How Much Does It Cost to Create an App Like MyFitnessPal ?

Everything will work out if you are able to manage the finances intelligently. So, after your initial research stage, you must have an approximate idea of the cost to create an app like MyFitnessPal.

There will be many factors that will determine the overall cost of this project. However, by adding up the expenses of the key components, you can arrive at a reasonably accurate estimate.

First and foremost, the complexity level and size of the fitness application is the primary contributor to the overall budget. For instance, the features that you have shortlisted for your MVP app will give you develop a rough idea of the time involvement which again will help decide on the expenditures.

Next, you need to decide on which platforms will you be developing the app. Generally, Android apps are lower priced than the ones for the likes of iTunes.

If you share your blueprint of the fitness application, which may be based on your benchmark application such as MyFitnessPal, the development will be able to provide you with a detailed estimate of the development costs.

Other than that, the geography and local labour market of where you choose to develop the app will also impact the price. In fact, the hourly rates will vary according to the location of your development team.

For example:

USA based developers: – $ 60 to $ 260 per hour
Developers in Eastern Europe: – $ 40 to $ 170 per hour
Developers in India: – $ 10 to $ 70 per hour

Usually, apps as complex as this require a team of developers to work on them.

Ideally, you should have a team constituting of:

Project Manager
Developers
Designers
Test Engineers

By adding the cost of these individual elements, the cost to create an app like MyFitnessPal should range anywhere between $ 15,000 and $ 30,000 on average. This is for a single platform only with just basic features.

A cross-platform app unquestionably will be more expensive to develop. Adding advanced features and functionalities will add to the cost too.

It can increase the cost by as much as $ 60,000. Having said that, an average spends of $ 50,000 will ensure that you are a stand out amongst your industry competition.

Read Also: 10 Best Health & Fitness Apps 2020

Conclusion

Create an app like MyFitnessPal for the fitness segment is in demand simply because people have no time to visit the gym. There is a ton of potential opportunities to be explored if your idea is solid.

Before you embark on the journey, make sure that you have a plan in place that is backed by some cutting-edge features. That will always be your selling point.

At the end of the day, a clear vision will help your app to succeed and get the best return on your product investment.

Mobile App Marketing Funnel: Converting Users into Customers

Posted on December 26, 2019 by Redbytes UK SEO

What is Mobile App Marketing Funnel?

Mobile App Marketing Funnel is a model that breaks down the stages of the customer journey. It starts with general awareness and ends with leads that converting prospects into customers.

One of the most critical and complicated of all business funnels, Mobile app marketing funnel involves a lot many considerations and strategic challenges.

From their very discovery, onboarding process to final conversion and even beyond, customer acquisition funnels have users move through multiple stages and channels.

Your close examination and analysis of user journey through these funnels lead you to a better position in conversion tactics.

In this blog, we are going to understand 5 major phases of app marketing funnel and what tactics have potential enough to yield returning and loyal converted customers.

The role of Mobile app marketing funnel

A little different from traditional marketing, most tactics used to propel customers through acquisition funnel are unique in its scope and effect.

The funnel for app marketing helps in the following parameters:

Discover friction points and business challenges
Areas of strengths and weakness
Target areas with great Impact on business growth
Customer retention solutions
Strong methods of customer interactions
Drop off, retention and conversion points
Realization of user-friendly engagement/support channels
Discovery of action plan
Key spots of investment

Read Also: Effective Post launch App Strategies That can Drive Success

Different stages in mobile app marketing funnel

Discovery and Awareness phase
Consideration
Conversion and Acquisition
Customer Relationship
Customer Retention

1. Discovery and Awareness Phase

Discovery phase in mobile apps is more crucial than traditional desktop exposure or typical enterprise sales. Here early stages where most purchase decisions are made consists of time taken to download an app.

In mobile app marketing funnel, the purchase or sales time which is nearly equivalent to time to download an app is relatively less.

The discovery and awareness stage is mostly dedicated to getting the product discovered by potential users and driving much awareness around it despite thousands of similar apps in the market.

Hence, the stage requires you to adopt effective app discovery tactics, both organic and paid.

(i) Organic approach

Many of mobile app marketing tactics resemble traditional marketing funnel such as social media exposure, word of mouth, email marketing, influencer or affiliate marketing, partner blogs and forums, etc.

(a) Word of Mouth

One of the ancient form of marketing, WOM type of marketing is still seen as effective in modern marketing funnel. WOM is all about how easily users can share with others, which is made possible by creating reward and referral programs in place.

Many food delivery and ride sharing apps leverage the idea of making it easy for existing customers to share and refer the app to their friends and folks. The tactic eventually drives good WOM marketing and referrals.

(b) App Store Optimization (ASO)

More like mobile app SEO, ASO is the must-have process of App store optimization that ensures your mobile app is optimized to rank top in app store when users come searching for it.

Since ASO accounts for 48% of app discovery, the need for ASO is high.For ASO success, make sure you use right target keywords in app name and description, and design an appealing icon,earn more user ratings and introduce frequent updates.

(c) Social media

Social media is undoubtedly the best tactic to create scores of fans for your app who will vote for you. Go and promote your new mobile app on social pages like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.

Twitter’s App Cards has people actually downloading the app directly from its page. Find out such healthy ways to connect and engage with active social media audience.

(d) Forums and Q&A sites like Quora and Reddit

Whether it is an app for shopping, meditation, e-sports, productivity or anything else, they all have a thriving community and target customers. It is important to find and reach out to them on channels and platforms they frequently visit such as hot famous Quora and Reddit. Follow their community guidelines and standard practices to achieve best gains on these interactive platforms.

(ii) Paid marketing tactics

Here are a few paid customer acquisition tactics to learn:

(a) App install and retargeting messages

To encourage more app installs, you can capitalize on your app’s in-built referral system. Use the referral links to create ads for retargeting referrals with a message. This way you will have a chance to convert and acquire new customers with existing ones.

Another app install driver is populating ads via social platforms like Facebook, AdWords, YouTube, Twitter, Instagram etc. These widely used networks help drive downloads and grab more attention.

This also works for Google Play store, where upon searching with a keyword, people get to see a list of apps along with paid advertisements of apps. In many cases, this tactic is more effective than organic results especially when you are new in the market.

(b) Affiliate marketing

Most popular these days, Affiliate marketing works like a referral system though other apps here feature your app to their existing users. The featured ad widgets, pages and snippets created by marketers is embedded by other app and web publishers (affiliates) on their platforms.

The app marketers have to pay a small fee to affiliates for such cross-promotion service which is more beneficial when you have multiple apps.

2. Consideration

Before downloading and after discovering your app, the first instinct is to check ratings, images and description or a supporting video on the app page in app stores.

This is called consideration process where trust plays a major role to drive app installs. This is where your app proves whether or not it is worth downloading by means of proof visible to curious souls.

Ratings are especially important if you spend good bucks on paid marketing tactic as many ads show ratings. The app with 4 or 4+ stars emit positive signals and bring more organic downloads as opposed to 2-3 star apps that don’t impress.

(i) Organic strategies

For good consideration, try to build trust for your presence on various marketing channels including emails, social space, website,etc. Here is what you can do for app store consideration:

(a) App page

Put the top quotes and positive reviews on the top space of the app page. You can also take advantage of placing a promotional video that shows the ins and outs of your app and the experience downloaders can expect.

(b) App ratings and reviews

Your app page is only well-optimized when there are considerable app ratings and reviews. As spoken earlier, every penny spent on paid marketing efforts will be worth it when your app shines with 4+ ratings.

You may use a smart rating prompt tool that helps boost reviews and ratings by reminding satisfied customers to leave review about their experience with the app.

3. Conversion and Acquisition

Conversion starts as soon as the installation happens and varies from product to product. If it is a retail app, remember that users never follow a straight line in their journey.

Some browse for new products while others are interested in specific items or special offers for new joiners. For some apps, conversion is in-app subscription or purchases while it is merely account creation for others.

Some users decide instantly to create an account while others spend sessions before creating the account. Mull over all the ways you can lead users to a conversion point.

(i) Conversion Tactics

We suggest you should define the exact conversion metrics of your business and target spots you wish to hit before starting off with these conversion tactics:

(a) Smooth Onboarding

Smooth, fluid onboarding process is what customers expect and what boosts conversion. Get them started with your app and help them familiarize with your in-app environment.

Make sure the road between install and app usage is made effortless and simple for users to get accustomed to the app quickly. This is because onboarding is directly associated with their first experience.

b) UX design craft

The number of people quitting your app due to poorly designed interface and shoddy registration page is more than 40%. This suggests first impression is a key driver of conversion.

This is why marketers need to work together with UI developers to design a user-optimized intuitive interface that delivers flawless interaction. Fusion of marketers and engineers leads to more returning converted customers.

Read Also: Importance of MVP in mobile app development

4. Customer Relationship

Building a customer relationship saves a lot of efforts and dollars spent on customer acquisition and retention activities. Develop a good relationship with them using the services that add value.

Marketers should follow the etiquette of physical retailers who engage with their buyers in store. While connecting with mobile app customers, choosing the right moment to spark off communication is the key to developing healthy relationships.

Steer clear from forcing yourself on customers when you approach them. Go with the flow, remain natural, read clues and reach out when you think they need you.

(i) Viable tactics

Think about how this approach to building customer relationships can translate to your mobile app experience by following these tactics:

(a) The right-moment communication

Communication with customers must happen at a right time and in a way that doesn’t bother them. You can choose to connect with in-app users when they are stuck somewhere, frustrated or had a great experience.

Encourage feedback and respond to them since good customer support, proactive resolution and product satisfaction translate to a lasting customer relationship.

Mobile offers a convenient platform for a brand to initiate communication and be accessible to customers in the nick of time. Leverage special feedback features to create a strong response system.

(b) Element of Personalization

Personalization is the one tactic that is never out of the game. Prepare viable one-to-one personalized messages that incorporate all of customers’ likes, tastes, preferences and tendencies.

Use customer data and try to be as close to customer’s personality as possible to achieve deep personalization and deliver addictive in-app customer experience.

5.Customer Retention

Customer acquisition and replacement cost is quite higher than retention and engagement activities. Mobile apps that constantly stay in touch with their customers have better chance at retaining customers after installing the app.

Engaging customers involves building relationships, listening to their feedback, giving responses and delivering great experience. Customers are most likely to remain loyal when companies respond to their feedback.

Also as you implement their feedback to improve your app service, they feel like being a part of the process – which further translates to more loyalty.

(i) Retention tactics

New offers, feedback, special moments and app updates encourage customers to stick to your app and keep using it.

(a) Engaging content

Make a practice of frequently updating in-app content with fresh perspective as it keeps customers engaged and loyal to your app. You can think of adding dynamic catalogue or special offers banners, new features or fun facts associated with your products.

Offer something fresh and unseen so that every time they open your app, they will be surprised and retained more often.

(b) Push notifications

Unlike in-app messages, push notifications appear outside the app on a customer’s device as alerts or messages when they are not interacting with your app. These notifications help foster good desire in customers to go use your app again for a reason and drive retention.

(c) Loyalty and reward bonus

If nothing else seems to work, Loyalty bonus or reward programs are the best way to retain lost customers or infrequent customers who are less active.

You can customize your own mobile-exclusive reward loyalty program that boosts engagement and brand loyalty. For instance, make them purchase on specific occasion and promise a reward in return as soon as they hit a milestone.

Read Also: How to reduce the mobile app development cost

Final words

We hope you could learn and collect some insight from our attempt to explain ideal mobile app marketing funnel strategy to convert users into customers. You can work on these tactics, discuss with your marketing team and implement them to smoothen user journey.

When executed perfectly, the precise visualization of customer acquisition funnel leads you to exact target business metrics and a bright opportunity to achieve improved customer retention, conversion and loyalty while reducing drop off number.

How to Create an App like PayPal [Features & Cost Included]

Posted on December 18, 2019 by Redbytes UK SEO

PayPal is one of the first entrants in the P2P market and today it is the pioneer and leader in the space. Many businesses today across the globe are using PayPal as their payment service provider.

There are a few distinct features that set PayPal apart from its counterparts.

For example, PayPal uniquely performs as a merchant account as well as a payment gateway. And even though there is no setup fee involved, consumers transacting on the app will have to bear a service and transaction fee.

The number of users using digital payments in some form or the other to make financial transactions is expected to reach 3.7 billion by the end of 2019.

Hence, there is no better time than now to create a PayPal app clone

Need to Create an App like PayPal

Recent studies show that 3 out of 4 millennials access one or more online or mobile P2P payments regularly. It is not surprising that users love to send money with only a couple of clicks and swipes.

There have been unprecedented advancements in technology and innovations like NFC and biometrics ID that have fuelled these apps to become more self-reliant.

This establishes the fact that there is ample demand in the market to develop a PayPal app or something similar to that. With the growth expected to reach $336 billion in 2021, investments have been free-flowing for fintech start-ups.

Hence, what do you need to do to create a similar app like PayPal and ensure that it becomes a success?

Read Also: 10 Best Free Budgeting Apps 2020

Steps to Create an App Like PayPal

With the decision taken to create a PayPal like app, you need to follow these steps:

1. Project Scoping

Outline the scope of the project that should include the provision for building web, iOS and Android versions of the P2P app. Core features in the project that are a must are opening user and merchant accounts, online payment, transaction/balance reporting, etc.

2. Choose the Correct SDLC Model

Launch with an MVP model that targets specific geography and a limited set of features. Eventually, you can enhance the app, step by step, as you get more feedback from the market.

3. Come Up with a Strategic Approach to Development

You can either opt for a PaaS or MBaaS platform for the web and mobile apps respectively. Key features can be implemented here using the SDKs and APIs. Make use of IDES and frameworks to speed up the project.

4. Assign a Scrum Team

Agile projects require scrum techniques. Therefore, have an appropriate team in place that should ideally comprise of Business Analysts, UI Designers, Web Developers, Android Developers, iOS Developers, a group of Testers and Project Manager

5. Get Cloud Services

Cloud service platforms come in handy for start-ups who do not wish to immediately invest in a ton of IT infrastructure. To get the development ball rolling quickly, managed cloud services can offer features such as ready-made infrastructure, networking, server, storage, middleware, operating system, and runtime environment.

6. Get an Online Payment Solution

To create a PayPal app, you need an API/SDK solution. This can be implemented as part of the core online payment features. You can instantly start processing payments online with this built-in solution. Generally, these platforms are compatible with web, Android, and iOS.

7. Procure an ID Verification Solution

You have to be compliant with regulations governing financial institutions. For this, you must have an ID verification solution that should function to verify government provided IDs. It should also be able to handle KYC and AML processes.

8. Sign-Up for a CRM Solution

Once your P2P app is developed, you will need to integrate it with a complete gamut of business activities. For this, you need a powerful CRM solution.

9. Buy a Bulk SMS Solution

With the app deployed, you will want the users to be engaged with it. Push notification is an intelligent way to achieve this objective. A bulk SMS solution that allows you to send continuous push notifications to your users is what you need to incorporate here.

10. Download and Set-Up IDEs

You will need access to a set of development tools. For this, you need to download the following IDEs:

IntelliJ IDEA, for the web app development, along with this Node.js plugin
Android Studio, for coding the Android app
Xcode, for the iOS app development

11. Get on with Testing

Before you launch your web and mobile applications, you should test it out on multiple browsers and devices.

12. Develop Your Web App

Once SDKs/APIs and development tools are sorted; you should get on with developing your web application. It is recommended that you use js to code the web app to make it more scalable.

13. Design the UI for the Mobile App

Ensure that your user interface is simple and easy to use. Also, make sure that it appeals in terms of visual sensibilities combined with smart technology to your user base. Choose the navigation structure carefully and blend it with the right icons, colour schemes, and themes.

14. Code, Test and Deploy the Android App

Once your Android application moves from the drawing board to the developer’s hands, you can expedite the coding process by using Kotlin, a powerful, feature-rich language. Integrate SDKs/APIs into your code. Test your app and be ready to deploy it on Google Play store.

15. Developing the iOS App

Launching the iOS app will involve coding via using Swift that creates fast and performant apps. Develop the app using Xcode and then test it on multiple mobile devices. Integrate third-party applications along with SDKs and APIs. Publish the app as per the guidelines outlined by the Apple store.

Essential Features of the App

The following are the list of recommended features that you need to include when creating a PayPal app clone.

1. User Digital Wallet

Your P2P application must accommodate a digital wallet space where your users can store their card data.

2. Send and Request Money

This is a simple enough feature where users will be able to send or request funds from other users on the same platform.

3. Send Bills or Invoices

Users will be able to use the camera on their smartphones or tablets to scan bills and invoices and share with other users. Moreover, any transaction on an individual level should generate an automatic invoice.

4. Push Notifications

Push notifications should be sent out on credit and debit of funds. They should also act as reminders, for instance, due date to pay your electricity bills, etc.

Read Also: 11 Best Personal Finance Apps 2020

5. Unique ID/OTP

To make any financial transaction via the P2P app, the user must be able to verify and confirm their unique ID and OTP (one-time-password). With the help of the integrated fingerprint scanner in the device, you will be able to verify transactions through fingerprint scanning alone.

6. Transfer to a Bank Account

The app should be developed with a feature that will enable the user to transfer funds not just on the same platform but also to a bank account or card.

7. Multiple Currency and Automated Conversion Process

The application should support the feature where users can send or receive funds in multiple currencies, globally. The incorporation of a mechanized currency converter can be really helpful as the entire process of the conversion rate depends on it.

8. Track Payments & Check History

Users must be able to track their financial history – received and sent payments, dates, and correct time on the app. To substantiate and scale this feature, you need to send weekly or monthly emails to the users, informing of their updated financial transactions during a given period.

9. Chat

If the users wish to seek clarification concerning payment, then introducing a chat feature will be certainly beneficial. It will also add great value and a competitive edge to your application. Besides that, it will reduce the number of possible mistakes.

10. Messaging

At times users may need to add details along with their transaction. This can be done by introducing the messaging feature.

11. Admin Panel

This feature is more relevant to the app owner. A web admin panel needs to be created that will help the owner to manage the app, edit, remove, and so on.

12. Secure Networks

Security is of paramount importance in a payment application as data transmission and storage are at a high risk of compromising. Blockchain technology can come to your rescue here that assists you to take advantage of peer-to-peer networks.

How the App Makes Money?

Online payment apps need to make money too. Therefore, a monetization strategy or a revenue model should be in place to ensure the app’s success. After all, every entrepreneur needs their venture to be profitable within a reasonable time.

You can go with two models of revenue generation when you develop a PayPal app version.

1. Premium Service Method

You can let your consumers access basic features such as transferring funds, accessing transaction history, and more on the free version of the application.

However, high-end features such as cryptocurrency transactions, text messaging facility, currency rates, and conversion facility, etc. should only be accessible on the paid version of the app.

2. Affiliate Marketing Method

Allow complementary financial institutions like banks, credit card companies or similar organizations to advertise their products and services on your app’s interface.

Trends & Statistics

According to the Allied Market Research report, the mobile payment market was valued at over $600 billion in 2016. eMarketer reports that there were around 82.5 million mobile phone P2P payments users in the United States alone.

It is estimated that over 50% of these users will make at least one P2P transaction per month by 2022.

Thus, P2P payments phenomena are quickly growing momentum. And that is simply because of the convenience that it offers to users in transferring funds via a secure and easy environment.

How Much Does it Cost to Create an App Like Paypal

An application like PayPal is a complex entity, especially with its set of security measures. Other parameters that come into play are team constitution, third party integrations, location of the development team, list of features, etc.

Based on the features discussed, Android and iOS apps can cost anywhere between $ 100,000 and $ 150,000.

Similar Apps

There are many players in the online payment app segment that are constantly competing with one another to gain market share. So, when you are developing a PayPal app, it is wise to evaluate your immediate competition.

Take a look at some of the well-known payment apps currently operating in the market:

Venmo
Zelle
Cashapp
Transferwise
InstaRem
Remitly
MoneyGram
TorFX
WorldFirst
OFX

Read Also: How Much Does it Cost to Create an App Like Mint

Conclusion

With P2P apps being the new trend in the financial segment, you won’t be wrong to go ahead with creating a PayPal app or something that closely resembles it. But you will need a lot of help with the actual process.

At Redbytes UK, we have experienced team of developers who have worked on similar high-end projects in the market. With years of industry exposure and hands-on experience, your project could not have been in better and more capable hands.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s create wonders together. Get in touch.

How to Create an App like Airbnb [Features & Cost Included]

Posted on December 4, 2019 by Redbytes UK SEO

The world around you has undergone a tremendous transformation. The economy has become more on-demand which has even forced industries like travel and hospitality to make changes in how they function.

That is probably one of the reasons why organizations such as Airbnb are at a billion-dollar valuation in less than five years.

Or why apps like Airbnb are in great demand worldwide.

The Airbnb Story

Everyone knows the story of Airbnb and how it took off. Many say it was pure coincidence coupled with a little bit of luck and an idea that was genuinely creative.

2007 was when it started with a small but life changing incident. Founders Brian Chesky and Joe Gebbia decided to rent out a mattress in their room using a bed and breakfast model just to earn a few bucks to pay for their own accommodation.

And Air Bed &Breakfast was born. The potential of the idea hit both the founders pretty much instantly. In spite of several rejections from angel investors, the founders kept it going and managed to grow into Airbnb by 2009. As of March 2018, the platform hosts rentals across 65,000 cities in 191 countries.

Read Also: 13 Best Free Travel Apps for 2020

Why Airbnb?

It is a universally known fact that Airbnb as an application is considered to be progressive. It propagates ways of human interactions within society. Two key factors that can help are:

By developing the concept of a ‘sharing economy’ model, the app promotes a system where services or assets are shared between individuals, either for free or for a fee
They contribute towards building the ‘trust loop’ which creates an environment of reliability and dependency among individuals through the usage of their service or assets

Since you are living in the time of the internet with globalization phenomena working in full force, there is more interest and space for people to travel and experience foreign cultures.

But there are basic hurdles such as the price of accommodation, hotels that leave you disconnected and there wasn’t an easy manner of booking a room from localhost.

When you travel, you want to experience unique hospitality where locals are willing to share, make friends, build relationships and more.

Imagine that you can find all of this in a single platform. A home away from home.

Airbnb can be best described as a peer-to-peer marketplace.

What it does is to offer the functionality that is provided by any booking website, that is, aggregate offers for hotel and motel rooms. However, there is a distinctive difference.

Airbnb acts an accommodation letting service that facilitates private owners of the property to let out their living spaces to individuals, looking for short-term rentals during their travels.

Lately, the over saturation of the vacation rental niche has been the topic of discussion. In the current landscape, 10% to 15% of the market is owned by Airbnb. This leaves a lot of untapped opportunities for new start-ups to enter and disrupt the dynamics.

So, the questions that arise are how to create an app like Airbnb and how much it will cost?

Core Features of an Airbnb-Like Marketplace

Take a look at the essential functionalities to create an app like Airbnb.

Features for Guests or Travelers:

Log-in or Sign-up:

Users can sign-up by creating a new account. The details required to be filled in includes name, number, email id, etc. Sign-ins can be made via integrating your Airbnb account with your Google or social media account like Facebook. In case you have an id, you can use your pre-registered ID to log-in.

Manage Account

Users can edit, manage and update their profile information, for example, email id, mobile number, date of birth, gender, permanent address, etc. whenever they wish to do. They can also change their account password as per their convenience.

Chat and Push Notifications

Airbnb offers instant chat notifications like any other messaging application.

Search Filter

You can filter by parameters like your dates for travel, type of accommodation, your budget, must-have amenities, and more when you are looking for your desired short-term rental.

Host Interaction

Before booking your stay, the Host Interaction feature allows users to communicate with their host through messages. It also enables them to freely accept or decline offers and generate new requests.

Payments

Users have a choice of payment avenues. They can access the receipts post making the payment and check on the details of the transaction. Repeated payments create a transaction history which the users can also view at their end. The currency can also be selected as per user convenience.

Create Wish Lists/Saved

You can create a Wishlist of holiday rentals and save them, in case you have missed out on a place where you wanted to book but it was unavailable at that specific time. With the Wishlist in place, if the rental falls vacant, you get an immediate notification.

Booking

Users can check their bookings at any time. This is applicable for past and upcoming bookings too.

Coupons

The app allows users to apply coupons on checkout. These coupons are generally earned through referral codes.

Maps

Maps have significantly simplified the booking process for Airbnb users. The users can exactly pinpoint the location or area where they wish to stay. All available rentals are then showcased on the map.

Help

If the users need help, for instance, if there is of any confusion with the booking or they need any booking or hosts related help, Airbnb offers a self-help knowledge base access such as the FAQs section.

Rate and Review

Rate and review are the lifeblood of any booking app like Airbnb. Users can share their experience and rate and review the rental as well their host which can be made live to the general public.

Sharing

To earn referrals, users can invite their contacts on social media to download the application.

Apart from these standard functionalities, Airbnb has made some recent feature additions to their application to make it stand out even more.

Receive SMS Notifications

Users can now receive instant SMS notifications once their booking has been confirmed. They can also receive any applicable promotional offers.

Supplementary

The app has an in-built scope to add on more social media channels and payment methods.

Features for Hosts

Registration

To register themselves on the application and list their vacant property, all that the hosts need to do is to fill in their details.

Log-in or Sign-up

Hosts can create a new account by filling in their details like name, number, address etc. Using their email addresses or social channel can also help in the sign-in process. If they are already registered on the application, they can log-in using their pre-registered ids.

Manage Personal Page and Profile Information

The hosts, too, can make changes to their email id, mobile number, address, or any other personal profile information. They can also change their account password at any point in time.

Manage Listings

Hosts can manage their listings which includes all details related to the property, for example, pricing, amenities, experiences offered, etc. The hosts can also upload new images under this section.

Booking Listing

Hosts can systematically view all their upcoming bookings, generally in a calendar view format. Upcoming bookings are showcased against each date of the month.

Request

The host with this feature has the power to either accept or decline any request from the user for their space.

Messaging Feature

The chat interface allows hosts and guests to connect freely. Hosts can resolve any queries that prospective guests may have before booking or confirming their stay. Create and send new requests to guests.

Rate and Review Guests

Hosts too can review and rate their guests as per their behaviour and conduct.

Account Details

This is specific to adding or removing information in the account.

Help

The FAQs section can be accessed by hosts if they need any help regarding the listing of their property or if they require any booking or guest related help.

Read Also: How to Shape Your Smart Homes With Mobile Apps

Sharing

Hosts can also invite their friends to download the application by sharing via their social media accounts.

Booking History

Hosts can track past bookings along with payments received in their Booking History. Also, the revenue generated can be estimated.

Features for Admin Panel

Dashboard

This is a single platform to view all new or old registered users and hosts along with photographers.

Manage New Listing

Airbnb scrutinizes any new listing that is being uploaded by the host before processing it further to make it live on the app. You can edit, add or delete as per your requirement using the admin panel.

Booking History

Previous and new bookings can be viewed using the Booking History along with functionality to receive an update on the current status of each reservation which can also be edited, updated or deleted.

Feedback and Complaints

Feedback received from both hosts and guests can be checked on this screen. Complaints received from both ends are also processed through this feature.

Insights

All previous and current activities along with any relevant details can be observed here. These detailed insights help in future decisions.

Taking Airbnb as A Role-Model

Following the Airbnb model, you have to focus on security which is an exemplary feature on the app. It combines three types of safety within the app which are:

Deposits for the services rendered which will not work if the client works with a service-provider intermediary.
While social media accounts offer the required information, when you decide to create an app like Airbnb, it should have a verification process to ensure that the individual you intend to share space with is not fraudulent.
With a post-charge option, a credit card gets linked to a specific account so that it can be charged for the assistance provided to the guest. Even though it is a slightly risky move, you can opt for a ‘no card’ option. Therefore, sanctions for these should be accounted for as well.

A blended model where deposit and verification systems are combined is the ideal model for a start-up aiming to create an Airbnb clone.

Create An App Like Airbnb

Choosing the right technology stack can be the determining factor between the success or failure of your Airbnb clone. Here are the proposed components that you can use for your application too.

Programming Languages: Ruby, JavaScript
Frameworks: React, Ruby on Rails
Webserver: Nginx
Cloud Storage: Amazon S3, EB3
Cloud Hosting: Amazon EC2
Cloud Database: Amazon RDS, MySQL
Big Data: Presto, Druid and Airpal

With the basics in place, the next job is to build a team. Check out a must-have team composition to kickstart the project:

Business Analyst
Project Manager
UI/UX designer
1 or 2 Android developers
1 or 2 iOS developers
Back-end developers
Front-end developers
QA engineer

Depending on the core features that intend to include in the app will determine your time and cost for development. Here is a snapshot:

Airbnb Core Features for Guests:

Feature	Hours for iOS Development	Hours for Android Development
Registration	13 hours	13 hours
Login	35 hours	35 hours
Search	122 hours	122 hours
Favourites	15 hours	15 hours
Chats	127 hours	127 hours
Profile	15 hours	15 hours
Payments	24 hours	24 hours
Order	38 hours	38 hours
Total Time	389 hours	389 hours

Airbnb Basic Features for Hosts:

Feature	Hours for iOS Development	Hours for Android Development
Advertisements	153 hours	153 hours
Requests	16 hours	16 hours
Push notifications	14 hours	14 hours
GPS	20 hours	20 hours
Total time	203 hours	203 hours

Final Time Estimate:

Feature	Hours for iOS Development	Hours for Android Development
Features for Guests	389 hours	389 hours
Features for Hosts	203 hours	203 hours
Admin Panel (One for All Platforms)	225 hours	225 hours
Frameworks and Libraries Integration	58 hours	61 hours
UI/UX Design	150 hours	120 hours
Quality Assurance	342 hours	342 hours
Project Management	171 hours	171 hours
Total Time	1538 hours	1511 hours

How much does it cost to create an app like Airbnb?

Take a look at the software developer rates:

Region	iOS Development Rates in USD	Android Development Rates in USD
North America	$110 – $250	$150 – $170
Western Europe	$37 – $175	$70
Easter Europe	$23 – $80	$35 – $50
Australia	$35 – $150	$110

Taking into account all the factors, to create an app like Airbnb will cost you approximately $65,650.

Read Also: Effective App Launch Marketing Strategy That Drive Success

Takeaways

There is something powerful in the Airbnb message – “We Imagine a World Where You Can Belong Anywhere”.

With communication that carries so much emotion, the application does contribute to diffusing cultural boundaries and make the traveller feel like someone has just read their mind.

These kinds of app ideas can shake up the market. So, maybe there is something about to create an Airbnb app clone that leaves its users so attached to it.

11 Best Podcast Apps For Android & iOS

Posted on November 22, 2019 by Redbytes UK SEO

The inception of Podcast creation and listening is rooted somewhere around 2002, but it was all casual back then. Over a decade, Podcast media format has evolved and come a long way, finding its way into many digital devices including Amazon Echoes, CarPlay, SmartWatch, Google Home, and Android Auto(paid & free) as official podcast apps.

Addictive and engaging, these podcast apps are most preferred on smartphones and some of them provide their network with an extensive line of free superhit podcast shows and programs across vast categories.

Podcast apps usually offer great content and unique features with new episodes of subscribed shows appearing in your feed. A few of them enhance your experience with total control over download limits and offline listening capability.

But huge varieties of free podcast apps may leave you confused as which one to pick.

Read Also: 10 Best Free Music Apps For Android & iOS

To help you choose the most suitable podcast, we have listed here the top 11 trending and popular free podcast apps available in the UK.

1. Acast

Acast thrives on its simplicity of features yet offers everything expected in an ideal podcast app. You have a wide variety of content topics from news, sports, comedy to cultural content and it lets you listen to podcasts for free online.

It allows you to easily search for podcasts on favorite topics using a keyword or simply browse through categories and trending shows. Like YouTube, you have the option to download and listen to podcasts offline.

The app also gives you topic recommendations based on your interests and habits.

Features

Simple design and feature-rich
Offers a huge range of content topics and shows
Easy to search capability
Download for Offline listening experience
Personalized Suggestions based on subscriptions
Ability to share links on social networks

2. Plex

Although Plex has been a media player for streaming music and videos, it is now offering podcasts to users. Pleasantly enough, you don’t need a paid subscription to enjoy its podcasts since it is freely available to all.

The app has a well- designed interface that allows you to access all your favorite music and movies. Plex has also got Mac and Windows apps along with a online version.

It offers interesting podcast recommendations and helps you import your subscriptions from another podcast app.

Features

Freely available podcast listening service
Well-designed interface
Interest-specific podcast recommendations
An added benefit of streaming music and movies
Import your subscriptions from another app

3. BBC Sounds

As the name suggests, BBC Sounds unsurprisingly features podcast content created by the BBC. You have hours of podcasts on a variety of topics to choose from, as BBC offers ample variety on diverse topics.

However, you will not find podcasts provided by the third-party content publisher. Using BBC Sounds, you can listen to live radio broadcasts and music and subscribe to favorite BBC radio shows.

Features

Unique app with radio and podcast capability
A huge variety of content topics
Listen to hours of high-quality BBC podcasts
Listen to live radio broadcast and music
Subscribe to BBC radio shows
Suggestions of podcasts and music mixes you may like

4. Pocket Casts

Pocket Casts is one of the most embraced free podcast apps in the UK It has neat as well as organized interface and great features. It lets you see what’s in your subscription list and unfinished episodes.

It has awesome audio features including audio pace adjustment and ability to connect and play podcasts on Amazon Alexa Echo speaker.

Features

Impressive range of podcast features
Ability to adjust the audio listening pace
Neat and smart interface for better viewing
Connect to Alexa and play podcasts on Echo smart speaker
Cloud storage for listeners and creators
Huge variety of App icons and themes

5. Castbox

Castbox is a freemium podcast app that lets you discover new podcasts. Its hook suggests new podcasts using a unique recommendation engine. The free version populates ads and limits subscription to 100 channels.

The premium app delivers ad-free experience, personalized homepage, unlimited subscriptions and early access to new features. Castbox costs $0.99 per month. The app is fully compatible with Amazon Alexa, Apple Watch, CarPlay, Google Home, and Android Auto.

Features

Excellent podcast recommendation engine
Unusual podcast suggestions
Access to great many podcast topics
Personalized homepage and unlimited subscriptions in the premium version
Compatible with Alexa, Google Home, Apple Watch and Android Auto

6. Spotify

Spotify is known as the best music streaming app but has also added a podcast player feature to its services.

This free app has stunning personalized features to enhance the listening experience, including the one that lets you conduct all your podcast activities separately in its dedicated zone away from your music department.

Although you don’t have a lot of settings in the free version, Spotify premium ($9.99 per month) returns value by elevating podcast listening experience.

Features

Podcast coupled with music streaming in a single app
Personalized features
Separate dedicated area for podcast activities
High-quality audio
Spotify Premium version eliminates ads

Read Also: 13 Best Music Player Apps For Android 2021

7. Laughable

Laughable is designed for humor cravers and delivers great laugh-inspiring podcasts. This app promises podcast content that is focused on comedy.

It puts the world’s popular hilarious comedians in one spot. You can search and discover your favorite comedians and their podcasts.

You may also stumble on the list of other shows they have appeared on. The comedians’ database also includes actors, athletes and some public figures.

Features

Suitable for comedy lovers
A wide database of world comedians
Ample range of podcast subscriptions
Offline listening
Adjustable playback speed with sleep timer

8. Luminary

Luminary is an elegant podcast player that has free and paid ($7.99 a month) versions. You can access its range of original debut programs starting with 40 shows scheduled in 2019, including Hear to Slay, Fiasco, The Axe Files with David Axelrod, The Daily by The New York Times, Trevor Noah’s On Second Thought, etc.

Luminary is set to become the Netflix of the podcasting world. The paid version has exclusive ad-free podcasts while free-tier users will listen to free podcasts.

Features

Amazing selection of exclusive debut shows
A range of good podcasting app features
Handy search and discovery tools
Smooth Playback controls
Offline listening mode

9. RadioPublic

RadioPublic is another recently famous and brilliant app in the podcast space for UK podcast fans. It pleases listeners and creators by giving them access to thousands of interesting podcasts across various categories.

It is built to crack the fair deal for its users, offering a commendable ad-supported design that delivers a better experience and results.

Features

Ample variety of podcast categories
Experiences gets better with more time spent listening
Automatic download option
Streaming playback
Great organization tools
Audiobook support

10. Stitcher for Podcasts

Stitcher for podcasts is a free podcast network that hosts greatest hits like Freakonomics Radio and Levar Burton Reads. Stitcher premium ($4.99 a month) delivers quality content.

Although it doesn’t impress you with incredible listening features, it lets you play stitcher content on mobile, web and Amazon Alexa device, CarPlay and Android Auto.

It creates a custom playlist and presents the latest episodes while providing you with offline listening capability.

Features

Podcast player and network
Latest episodes of super hit shows
Supports devices including Alexa, CarPlay and Android Auto
Downloads and Offline listening capability
News audio alerts for breaking stories
Recommendations based on your podcast tastes and those of mutual listeners

11. Procast

Procast is a fascinating podcast app that allows users to share their favorite shows and talk about the moments they find special.

To enable this activity, users can download a short clip from the podcast audio episode on their device and share it with friends on their social accounts.

Apart from this, the Procast app also facilitates a consolidated inbox to update you on the newest episodes of the podcasts you have subscribed to.

Features

Elegant design
Tinder-like swipe control
Good variety of podcast topics
Ability to share favorite podcast episode clips with social media friends
Consolidated inbox to suggest the latest subscribed podcasts

Read Also: 10 Best Free TV Apps For Android & iOS 2021

Final words: pick the one you like

Whether you are an avid listener of podcast shows or have a passion for creating your podcast content, the list of these top free 11 podcast apps in the UK might come handy.

We have put them all together based on user preference, podcast listening trends and online reviews. Make sure the one you pick for your smart device has everything you expect in your favorite podcast app including its features and content offerings.

How to Create an App like Tinder?

Posted on November 19, 2019 by Redbytes UK SEO

Nowadays, it is very easy to create a mobile app like Tinder. In order to create a Tinder-like app for dating you need to have three key elements such as design, app itself (iOS, Android, or both) and API.

In fact, dating apps have made it easier for people to find someone they are compatible with. It is considered that, online dating is a great, non-intimidating way to put yourself out there.

In the last few years, online dating has taken the concept of relationships to a completely different level.

In fact, statistics says that approximately 27% of relationships are the result of online dating. Thus, it can be said that the online dating phenomenon is no longer a taboo.

A whopping 40% of heterosexual couples have been estimated to have met via dating websites and apps in the US alone.

There is little doubt that access to smartphones is one of the key reasons for this meteoric rise in online dating. The percentage of online dating service users via smartphones is as high as 48%.

Data predicts that approximately 50% of married couples globally would have initiated their relationship online by the end of 2031. An active user spends a staggering US$ 243 on an average on online websites and apps offering dating services.

Read Also: Top 10 Messaging Apps for Android & iOS

The ARPU or average revenue per user presently amounts to roughly US$ 4.30 for dating services.

The Dating World Has Transformed

Posting pictures of the meal you’ve had, or expressing your thoughts on Twitter, no wonder you need an online platform to find your love too.

With such platforms on trend, experts predict that over a 5 year period, the dating industry revenue is likely to increase by 11.9% and as of 2018 has reached $3 billion.

But what is more popular with users – websites or apps? That’s the question you need to answer.

Websites or Apps: Which One Should You Opt For?

The debate between which one is a better platform – websites or apps, still ensues.

But most people are likely to opt for mobile apps when it comes to online dating. A number of reasons support this thought. The main reason is accessibility which has led to such rising popularity of dating apps.

This segment has shown promise and is only expected to grow in doubles and quadruples. Create an app like Tinder is now easier if you hire the right developers and support team to do the job.

With so many online dating apps flooding the dating market, there is one that has achieved phenomenal success.

So, if you are aiming for the best, then Tinder is your benchmark. And there has never been a better time than now to create a dating app like Tinder.

Getting to Know Tinder

What made tinder famous Since the time the platform was made live, a significant single population has had it on their smartphones due to its revolutionary swipe right (like) and swipe left (dislike) feature. But there is a secret weapon that Tinder has – a gaming spirit.

By means of gamification, Tinder completely overcomes the stigma of online dating. And users simply love swiping and looking for their ideal match to date at the same time, undeniably, leading to the app’s increasing popularity.

Let’s look at statistics showing Tinder’s success:

Features in an App Like Tinder

The features of the dating app will generally determine your overall development and design cost. The top functionalities that you should definitely consider in your online dating app are as follows:

1) Logging In

The login process is pretty straightforward. It can be done using your phone number or Facebook.

Your basic user information is extracted by Tinder algorithms from Facebook which means that you can skip the conventional form-filling steps to create a profile.

2) Profiles

The app can import basic user information from your Facebook account, or you can also choose to do it manually. Add photos and short description and you are good to go.

Typically, you will need the following information to make your profile live:

Age
Location
Brief description
Mutual friends on Facebook
Mutual interests

3) Location

The concept of tinder depends on connecting people on the basis of their present location. Therefore, proximity is absolutely vital. Therefore, geolocation in the app is an essential feature that Tinder uses to fetch the user’s location constantly.

4) Discovery Settings

Tinder allows users to adjust discovery settings by age, sex and distance. Even in the free version, a Tinder user can set a search radius of 10 miles.

5) Swipe

This functionality is a unique proposition that Tinder offers to its users. The idea behind the feature was to improve the process of searching for a date.

With the swipe right to like and left to dislike has made online dating easier and more entertaining.

6) Matchmaking

A match is possible, only if there is a mutual interest between users. Users can begin chatting when the match has been made.

Read Also: Top 10 Social Media Apps in UK

7) Real-Time Chat

A private chat becomes accessible as soon as users are matched. They can exchange messages, emojis and GIFs too.

8) Social Media Integration

Your dating profiles on Tinder can be seamlessly integrated with your Snapchat and Instagram accounts. This feature enables more interactions and conversations within the app.

9) Push Notifications

For a dating app, this is a must-have feature that makes sure that your users are engaged and are returning to the app often. With push notifications in place, users are alerted of new matches, messages and app updates.

Tinder App Features and Technologies in Use

The features discussed are functionalities that has more to them. Implementing them requires investment in terms of time and money.

Let’s look at them one by one.

1) Authorization and User Profile

Facebook authorization engine is what you should use when you consider to create an app similar to Tinder. An open authorization protocol like OAuth can be used to get it done.

With this implementation, the app does not save the login and password of the social media account but only uses the credentials to create a new account within the application.

Alternatively, using your phone number to login can also be done.

This step should be followed by an introduction to the app’s functionality with the assistance of a sliding tutorial.

Allow room for users to edit their profiles on the application and have the architecture to save the necessary records on the server side.

Tinder has the feature where users creating a web profile can use it beyond the Tinder app. This is something that you too can consider for your dating app.

2) App Settings and Notifications

In order to create the app convenient to use, Tinder allows an adjustment of settings. For instance, the user can enable or disable the notification alerts for new matches, receive messages, super likes and likes.

You can also adjust the distance of measurement as per your preference in miles or kilometres.

In addition to the usual adjustment of settings, Tinder allows specifics enabling and disabling of their discovery feature. This basically means it is up to you when prospective dates can look at your profile through search parameters like age and distance.

3) Geolocation and Communication

The actual foundation of a dating app of this standard is its geolocation feature. Without this functionality, there is very little use of this app as the purpose is to find matches within easy distances.

By integrating either of the Google / Apple Locations and Maps services, this feature can be implemented easily.

With the concept of mutual likes in play, Tinder users are able to chat with each other. This function is implemented via the RESTful API or through HTTP.

Integration with third party applications like Instagram is possible with profiles on Tinder. However, the Tinder content must not be showcased on these external applications in any format.

Monetizing the Application with In-App Purchases

Tinder, like a number of apps has a premium version where users can purchase a subscription to access more features. For any dating application, this can be achieved by integrating an In-app Billing API for Android applications and Store Kit framework for iOS.

Other than these key features and functionalities, you must consider essential elements like database structure, data access object (DAO) layer, Rest API, etc. when it comes to create an app like Tinder.

Techniques That Make Tinder-like App Popular

Even though the features in an app like Tinder may be quite simple. In fact, the fairly complex algorithms stay hidden from the users.

You need to consider these key points, while creating Tinder like app

While there may be thousands of possible matches, users should be able to see only one individual at a time
The profiles should be structured into different groups at the developer level so that each user can view people in a separate order
Matches that are shown to users should be a mix of attractive and unattractive people in a non-repeatable frequency
Algorithms should be in place to define who, when and to whom should be shown to create a match in applications like Tinder

Implementation of all these logics should be from the application’s server side which can be supported with backend comprising of PHP, .NET, Java, Python, or other server-side technologies.

Tinder App Design

The design element, though simple, has maintained a standard of quality which is one of the primary reasons why users are eager to be on Tinder.

Moreover, the user interface (UI) of Tinder is simple and easy to navigate, hence, more and more users like to spend time on it, as they find the app quite intuitive.

The placement of buttons on the app’s interface also ensures that the users get a highly rated user experience.

Therefore, the UI/UX should be one of the biggest investment outlays that you should plan for when your dating app is at its planning stage.

Creating an App Like Tinder: Development Team

The composition of your development team will determine the quality of your dating application. You need to pay attention to the location of your development team.

If you are thinking of a team based in Europe or USA, the cost of your project will be too high. However, Eastern Europe will cost you less.

So, if you want to build Tinder clone, the project team will consist of:

2 backend developers
1 designer
2 Android developers
2 iOS developers
1 project manager
1-2 QA engineers

Taking this into consideration, let’s find out how much it costs to create a dating app like Tinder.

Cost of Developing an App Like Tinder

With the features and functionalities outlined, you will be looking at a development time such as this:

Authorization – 22 hours
GPS location – 7 hours
Settings – 60 hours
User profile – 85 hours
Matching functionality – 90 hours
Notifications – 25 hours
Communication – 125 hours
3rd party services integration – 30 hours

The above is applicable for both Android and iOS developers working on the basic functionalities of a dating application like Tinder.

Do bear in mind that it is not enough just to be aware of the development timelines of the application. You should be well-prepared to cover expenses, if the timelines extend which can add to your overall expenditures.

Read Also: Top 10 Live Streaming Apps 2020

Wrapping It Up

In the next few years, you are looking at a massive revolution in the dating app segment. This is because although there are significant players in the game, there has not been a definite unicorn yet.

While you look at incorporating all or a selection of these features, there must be something that sets your online dating app apart from the rest of the pack.

10 Best Free Budgeting Apps UK

Posted on November 14, 2019 by Redbytes UK SEO

With smartphone constantly enhancing your life, it has become easier now to manage and control your everyday finance. Mobile apps provide the simplest and smartest way to budget and curb your spending habits.

There are great, highly accessible free budgeting apps in UK, that you can install on your Android or iOS device to keep track of your spending, monitor money in and money out and plan your financial goals for better savings.

Money management is as challenging as money making, and one reckless spending can spoil your monthly budget. In UK, if you are helpless to your spending habits, you just need some free budgeting apps on your device.

Many of these free budgeting apps compile all your accounts in one place and make it easier for you to manage your finance, control your spending and improve your budget goals without switching to different banking apps.

Read Also: How To Build A Personal Finance App

If you are a UK citizen looking for budgeting and money management solutions, you can consider these 10 best free budgeting apps

Money Dashboard	Mint
Bean	Emma
Wally	Yolt
Monzo	Personal Capital
Cleo	Moneyhub

1) Money Dashboard

This app gives you a read-only window into all your financial activities to keep your budget in control. It connects with all your accounts to bring all the information in one common attractive dashboard, so you can make better budgeting decisions.

It has organized charts and graphs to track your spending habits in categorized way for six months. You can get a clear idea of ways to save some pounds.

Features

Precise tracking of spending
Collates all your bank accounts in one place
View all your financial activities and spending
Neat charts and graph to know your savings each year
Shows you the effect of everyday routines on total savings

2) Mint

This popular budgeting app is enriched with impressive range of features to help you manage and track finance coming from financers like banks, credit card companies, lenders, etc.

It is quite a handy budgeting tool that puts spending and transactions in specific categories such as credit or debit cards.

Features

Track transactions with all finance providers in one place
Array of features to help with money management
Categorized transactions and spending
Customizable budget that incorporates user needs
Notifications and alerts in the event of exceeding your budget
Provides category-wise overview of cash flow each month

3) Bean

If you are determined to turn your budget around, then this app will help you shop smartly. It shows you awesome deals on all your general spending such as house bills, insurance, interest and more.

All you have to do is connect the app with all your existing financial connections in a read-only format. The budgeting app will change your mind for weekly magazine or other overpriced streaming subscriptions in order to balance the spending Vs savings.

Features

Encourages you to shop smartly
Directs to best saving options by controlling spending urges
Helps you focus on better pocket-friendly deals
Integrates all financial connection read-only
Shares tips to economize and shape up your budget

4) Emma

Emma gently pushes you away from the pit of spending and adds to your saving each month. Emma in Jane Austen’s style shows you read-only picture of accounts and cards and stops you from increasing your expenses.

The app is built on the concept of affordable savings to slim down your budget while also letting you live happily.

Features

Helps you achieve affordable saving target each month
Stops all your unnecessary expenses
Gives read-only accounts view
Keeps budget goals maintained
Sends buzzes when busting set budgets on overpriced items
Reminds you of high bank fees and related deadlines

Read Also: 11 Best Personal Finance Apps 2023

5) Wally

This famous budgeting app respects those who love old-school approach to banking. You can try this unique old-fashioned banking app to manage your money and boost savings.

It is slick and elegant and built for those who don’t fancy open banking and don’t mind doing the hard work of entering the data themselves. It shows all accounts with ability to set weekly budgets and savings targets.

Features

Slick and stylish app design
Creates read-only format from manually inputted data
Technology supports conventional non-open banking
Get insight and alerts about spending
Setup weekly budget and saving goals
Group joint accounts for ease of management

6) Yolt

This app is perfect for tracking your spending across multiple accounts. Like many other free budgeting apps in UK, this app also elevates your saving. But it doesn’t just act as read-only finance management app, as it also allows you to transfer money to different accounts.

Here, you have access to charts that show the graph of spending history and reports. You can easily set your budget goals and spending target.

Features

Great for tracking spending across multiple accounts
View all of your accounts in one place
Set budget goals and track your bills
View Spending reports for spending target
See charts that highlight spending history
Easily transfer money between different account

7) Monzo

With this app, it is easier to view the lucid summary of spending and also set up budget goals. The app uniquely offers a little more than other usual apps focused on budgeting. It sends instant notifications of transactions and allows you to set up direct debits and standing orders.

Unlike static budgeting tool, this budgeting app also lets you pay people. It helps you save surcharges and fees on spending abroad. Its amazing feature ‘coin jar’ sets the payment to the nearest pound, putting away extra money as saving.

Features

Set spending budgets
Clear summary of spending
Set up direct debits and standing orders
Instant notifications
Pay people within the app
‘coin jar’ feature allows you to save some cents with the nearest pound
Withdraw cash or spend it abroad without unnecessary fees

8) Personal Capital

This app is your tech-powered investment adviser that you can rely on without paying a cent. The great investment and purchase tracking tool, Personal Capital is a hybrid combo of robot and human advisor service that offers money tracking dashboard packed with impressive budgeting features.

It favors your saving goals by emphasizing the use of investment tools that automatically analyze asset classes, investment fees, etc.

Features

Unique budgeting tool for investors
Saves money through sensible investments
Offers handy investment side of tools
Automatic analysis of investment fees, assets and more
Not a typical cash flow management and budgeting solutions
Automated tracking of purchases across linked accounts

9) Cleo

Robo money management and saving advisers are picking up a pace now. Based on artificial intelligence that drives the finance of many banking apps nowadays, Cleo uses AI (artificial intelligence) to deliver effective spending and saving solution.

Unlike everyday AI built to improve general human life, Cleo’s chatbot assistant has read-only access to your accounts from which it generates informative answers to your queries regarding spending history and saving. There are also charts and graphs to show you the spending summary.

Features

Smart finance management chatbot assistant
Good for generating quick, reliable spending and saving advises
Gets you better control on your spending and budget
Graphs and charts showing your previous spending

10) Moneyhub

This is a handy spending-oriented budgeting app that not only mirrors your spending habits but also maintains your data privacy. You get this excellent spending analysis tool that gets you detailed insight about spending history across all your linked accounts, so that it is easy to set spending targets.

The app also sends notifications and reminders for due bills along with financial advice.

Features

Set up spending targets to meet your budget
View all your accounts in one place
Receive notifications and reminders for due bills
Receive financial advice if needed
Comes with monthly subscription

Read Also: 13 Best Money Making Apps 2023

Conclusion

Based on our thorough market research and reviews, we could sum up these 10 free budgeting apps in UK. You may read all about their features and usability and try a few before finalizing on the one that perfectly suits your budgeting needs.