Category: How To

How to Create A Video Chat App Like Skype

Posted on by Redbytes UK SEO

Wondering if you can create a video chat app like Skype? Even though the market is quickly reaching saturation point with players like Google Hangout, Zoom, and more, there is still space for new players to mark their mark. This is because the demand for the product is skyrocketing worldwide.

 

Before you jump onto the bandwagon in the hope of reaping millions in revenue in a few years, it best to sit down and be clear on the purpose and objective of developing a Skype clone. After all, you have to create a video chat app that stands out in the crowd.

 

Let’s take a look at the process in detail.

 

Start with identifying your Target Audience

 

Are you going to create a skype like app for both iOS and Android users?

 

Are you going to concentrate on targeting millennials only or will there be something to attract a business clientele too?

skype

Before commencing with the app development process, you must ask these questions to identify your audience and their respective needs and expectations.

 

Studies report that the range of age of 60% of video chat app users is between 18 and 29 years. Only 40% of individuals between 30 and 49 years are consistently using video chat apps.

 

One of the reasons could be the generation gap which is why a younger target audience makes more sense. This process will also be the foundation of shortlisting your app features and functionalities as

 

For example, if you intend to cater to millennials, especially youngsters and teenagers, your video app should be built on concepts like Hike and Viber.

 

Cool new features like stickers, filters are a few must-have features that will help you reach out to a larger audience base. This will also add a touch of innovation to your platform.

 

On the other hand, if your app is primarily designed to meet the needs of a business audience, then functionalities such as a secure video conferencing facility should be a priority.

 

Investing in data encryption, quality of the video, and related business applications should not be compromised in any way.

 

Alternatively, you can also combine the two to create an application that can be used by both teens and corporates alike.

 

Read Also: 24 Best Video Chat Apps 2020

 

Features of a Video Chat App

 

skype app features

 

You need to have a list of basic features in place that will create the skeleton of your video chat application. If you build an MVP app, you can start with some must-have functionalities and then keep building on from there as per the demands of your audience.

 

Take a look at the recommended list.

 

1.User Registration

 

You can design your user registration process in two ways. Build a system from scratch that requires the user to submit their email, name, and contact information.

 

Alternatively, you can have a quick registration via a social sign-in or a Gmail id to build your user profile on the app. It is best to have both methods of user registration available so that the user has the opportunity to select their preferred way.

 

2. User Profile

 

Enabling the user to build their profile allows for easy chatting. With every user having their  profile can store their personal information in a single location. Once the profile has been created, users can add avatars, change them, edit and manage profiles whenever required.

 

3. Search and Add Friends

 

This feature is  essential as it enables users to find or get in contact with people that they need to connect with. It should be as easy as sending an invite to join a chat. The user should also be able to invite another user to join their contact list.

 

4. User Status

 

This is a key function that shows your contact list your status on the app. This can also work in terms of highlighting to you the status of your chat companion too.

 

You can add common status messages such as – Away, On A Call, Not Available, etc. This allows users to understand if your companions or friends on your contact list are available to chat or not.

 

5. Text Chat and Delivery Status

 

There may be times when your video chat cannot be supported adequately by your internet connectivity. In such instances, the user should be able to initiate text chats through an exchange of messages.

 

While this is not a showstopper feature, but is necessary, nonetheless. Remember to add a sign to show that the messages have been delivered and read.

 

6. Geolocation

 

Today, geolocation is a feature that is integrated into most applications. This enables your users to select their country simply and conveniently.

 

The GPS data can be automatically read that will detect user location. Your friends on your contact list can also show them which country or city you are currently in.

 

7. Video and Voice Calls

 

Video chats can never be a possibility sans video calls. Moreover, the app should also have the voice call feature available that can be an alternative to normal phone calls. When contacting people overseas, voice calls do not attract any additional charge making the process very economical for users.

 

8. Group Chats

 

The video chat application should also be able to support Group Chats. This is beneficial on a personal and professional level where a specific group of users can be added to a single conversation.

 

9. End-to-end Encryption

 

The type of encryption you offer protects the messages send from the devices of your recipient and sends it at the final transfer point. This means that when the message is sent from the device of the sender, it is already encrypted. But when it reaches the device of the recipient, it is automatically decrypted.

 

The idea is to ensure that no one can hack into the message whilst it is in the transfer state and read it. This feature ensures message confidentiality and drives credibility for your video application.

 

10. Synchronization with Cloud Service

 

Any video chat app should also possess the capability of storing user files such as images, videos, recordings of voice calls,and even documents. These are the types of information that usually people from both corporate and personal users tend to exchange on these platforms.

 

11. Automatic Backup

 

In a situation where you may have to delete the video chat application from your device, the user should not lose any data which was received or exchanged as part of the sent-received correspondence.

 

Having a daily automatic backup feature is, therefore, a key functionality to have that ensures all files on the chat platform are safe and sound.

 

12. Push Notifications

 

Push notifications again is a general feature that should be part of every mobile or web application. Having this functionality ensures that your users are always informed of new app updates and receive notifications of new features that may be subsequently introduced at a later stage.

 

These basic features can form the foundation of your application. You can keep introducing more premium features and functions as the app attracts a significant user base in due course of time.

 

Steps to Create a Video Chat App Like Skype

 

To create a video chat app like Skype requires a lot of steps to be followed. Take a look.

 

Step 1. Back-End Development

 

From your initial discussions with your development team, you should have designed a blueprint and a wire-frame of the application. For all applications, the first step of the development process involves starting with the back-end.

 

This includes creating the server part that enables the video app to function. You have the option to go with a ready-made BaaS solution. This will be suitable if your app is quite simple. On the other hand, if your video has complex features and functionalities, you may have to design and develop a customized BaaS solution from scratch.

 

Step 2. UI/UX Design

 

With your back-end sorted, it is time to concentrate on the front-end. This involves your user interface and user experience design.

 

Ensure that the navigation is simple to use because you do not want your users to be hunting around for features on the application. An intuitive workflow enables them to understand the functions of the app much better. All of this is part of the user experience.

 

The UI should have an attractive and catchy design. This will make prospective users more interested in using the application more frequently.

 

Step 3. Technology Stack

 

Several tech stack  combinations that can be used to create the video chat app like skype. You have a choice of:

 

  • SaaS Solutions for Building Video Chat Application: PubNub, OpenTokRTC, Wowza, Twilio, Socket
  • Programming Languages and Tools to Use for Video Chat App Development: Swift, Java and Kotlin, Bambuser, SDKs, and APIs

 

Take a look at the comprehensive list of technologies as a recommendation. That said, what you end up using will primarily depend on your app’s specific requirements.

 

Read Also: 11 Steps to Create a Mobile Application

 

For Android

 

  • Android Java, Rest APIs, Android studio
  • Third-party integration: Pusher, AppLogic (for chatting), PubNub SDK,

 

For iOS

 

  • Xcode, Swift
  • Third-party integration: PubNub SDK, AppLogic (for chatting), Pusher

 

For Desktop Application

 

  • Socket IO (for chatting)
  • React & NodeJs

 

WebRTC is an open-source technology that is most commonly for video connection between devices that enables quick deployment of real-time communication over iOS and Android chat apps possible. If you end you using this solution, then you will have to deal with four API interfaces.

 

These include:

 

  • MediaStream
  • RTCPeerConnection
  • RTCDataChannel
  • OpenTOK

 

How Much Does It Cost to Create A Video Chat App Like Skype?

 

To create a video chat app like skype is a relatively complex task. The more features and functionalities you have, the more it is going to cost. You will need access to a team of specialist developers, testers lead by an able Project Lead.

 

Here is a list:

 

  • Project Manager
  • The back-end and front-end engineers
  • Designer for UI / UX
  • QA specialist

 

The average time taken to develop the application will be anywhere between 665 to 780 man-hours.

 

  • Registration and address book: 50 – 60 hours
  • Messaging: 180 – 200 hours
  • Multimedia file transmission: 40 – 45 hours
  • Location: 25 – 30 hours
  • Contact sharing: 65 – 70 hours
  • Voice and video calls: 170 – 200 hours
  • Settings: 80 – 100 hours
  • Design (UX/UI): 55 – 75 hours

 

The cost of app development will also vary depending on the location of your development team. Given below is a median cost according to Statista:

 

  • North America: $60-250 per hour
  • United Kingdom: $60-150 per hour
  • Western Europe: $40-120 per hour
  • Eastern Europe: $20-100 per hour
  • India: $10-80 per hour

 

You also need to estimate the cost of deploying ready-made SaaS and BaaS platforms if you decide not to develop them from scratch.

 

How Can You Monetize Your Video Chat App?

 

app monetization

 

Now that you have created your Skype clone, you need the video app to make money. Monetization of the application can be explored in several ways. Here are a few suggestions:

 

Advertising

 

The integration of brand advertising on the video chat app is the most productive method of generating revenue. This is a direct avenue of creating instant interaction between brands and their target audience triggering profit for your video chat app in the process.

 

Premium Stickers

 

While you may have free stickers available on the app platform, you can allow access to superior designs that can be accessed on payment of a fee. You can enable a monthly subscription model wherein you introduce new stickers designs every month.

 

Paid Voice Calls

 

You can enable your app with the paid voice call feature wherein the user pays a fee to call on any wired line across the globe.

 

Read Also: App Development Cost-Design, Development, Deployment

 

Conclusion

 

 

The manner in which video chat apps are reshaping the communication and entertainment domains holds a lot of promise for future players in the space. Armed with confidence and a clear understanding of your objectives and end goals will help you in the process of development.

 

So now that you have everything to go ahead, start the process right away.

How to Create an App like Snapchat?

Posted on by Redbytes UK SEO

The success story of Snapchat is truly inspiring. A few college students get together and come up with the idea of a photo messaging application. Everyone thinks of it as an idea that has no merit.

 

Fast forward a few years and they have Facebook and Google offering a whopping $ 3 to $ 4 billion to buy it. What do these young entrepreneurs do? They reject the offer.

 

Another three years pass by and the application is worth $ 20 billion. It sounds like a dream but that’s the true tale of Snapchat. Today, it is one of the leading social media networks globally.

 

snapchat logo

 

Entrepreneurs around the world have been moved by this story and have come up with ideas for their start-up venture mirroring an app like Snapchat.

 

If this journey has driven you to create an app like Snapchat and you want a slice of the action too, let’s take a look at what you need to do.

 

What Are the Core App Features That You Need To Focus On?

 

Some years ago, Snapchat was the only easy messaging app with its focus on its best feature of removing messages in one to 10 seconds. With time, several new features have been added to its core functions evolving more like a perfect blend of a public and private messaging platform.

 

Bloomberg reported that this entertainment app has recorded a staggering 10 billion views in a day thus  transforming this messaging channel into a media giant.

 

snapchat app features

 

Here are some of the core features that you should introduce when you decide to develop your version of a Snapchat application.

 

Read Also: 10 Best Free Social Media Apps in UK

 

1. Message Exchange

 

Go one step further than just having a feature like chatting, by offering additional value with a set of innovative features when it comes to message exchange. Snapchat  has its unique function known as ‘snaps’ which are multimedia messages comprising of a photo or short video.

 

These messages are editable. You can add effects, filters, text, captions, drawings. Their recent Chat 2.0 update enables users to make video and audio calls along with sending audio notes.

 

Snaps can be sent privately to your selected contacts, or a published as a semi-public story that automatically self-destructs within a few seconds.

 

2. Self-Destructing Messages

 

This is a custom Snapchat feature where messages sent between users automatically self-destruct within a few seconds. This function has made the app popular among teenagers and young adults across the globe.

 

3. Stickers

 

Modern communication minus stickers seems unthinkable these days. Snapchat provides the option of 200 stickers to their users that have been in-built within the application.

 

When you create an app like Snapchat, think of how you too can come up with a custom feature like Stickers that will attract a large audience to use your platform.

 

4. Location Sharing

 

The location-sharing feature enables Snapchat users to share their whereabouts with individuals on their contact list. Their location appears on the Snap Map.

 

Users of this feature can select which individuals on their contact list can view their location. This works only when the Snapchat is in use.

 

5. Adding Friends

 

Look into Snapchat’s smart ways of adding friends instead of just using standard methods like phone numbers and usernames.

 

Surrounding the Snapchat Ghostface Chilla logo are black dots which is personalized QR code. Using the Snapchat camera, any user can scan it in and start to follow you instantly. This is the work of recognition algorithms in the backend also referred to as Snapcodes.

 

The Add Nearby feature makes use of your location and automatically scans in users within your proximity who have enabled this function on their Snapchat app too.

 

The device coordinates are shared with the server from the app. It then compares the geolocation of devices located close to the primary user.

 

 

6. Video and Audio Calls

 

With the latest update on the app, it enables current users to initiate one-tap video chats instantly. In case your preferred user is not online, you can send an audio note instead.

 

This function offers the user an alternative to WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger by transforming the Snapchat platform very similar to a phone.

 

7. Geofilters

 

This is a unique graphical overlay feature known as Geofilters that activates when a user is within a specific geographical location. This can be an event, a city or even a destination.

 

Geocoding is used to mark the location of the images being shared by users. This is  a computational process that automatically converts the geographical coordinates of the location into a description, generally the name of the place. This then shows up overlaid on the image typically within a template format.

 

8. Lenses or Filters

 

Within the Snapchat app, this is probably one of the most exciting features. Allowing the addition of real-time effects on images, making alterations on video images through a process of face detection has taken the messaging app to an entirely new level.

 

This feature was made possible when Snapchat made a strategic acquisition of a facial modification start-up called Looksery. Their core area of expertise making simulating facial appearances on a photo or video more accessible to users in real-time on mobile platforms.

 

9. Stories

 

If you wish to broadcast a photo or video content from your channel to your friends, then Stories is the feature that you should be using. The stories remain to live for 24 hours. The function provides users with a similar social channel to share the news.

 

The feature can now be upgraded to Live Stories that triggers a new functionality. It allows Snapchat users located at the same event location to contribute to the same story trail.

 

10. Discover

 

Discover feature is an alternative method of exploring Stories that covers a wide range of editorial teams. It includes all types of sponsored short-form content from major publishers, for example, BuzzFeed, CNN, Mashable, People, etc. The section undergoes a refresh every 24 hours.

 

How to Create an App Similar to Snapchat?

 

To create an app like Snapchat, you need to do some deep thinking about the development process once you have finalized the list of features that you aim to include in the application.

 

Here is a step-by-step layout of your action plan.

 

Step 1. Discovery or Inception

 

At this stage, your primary objective is to finalize the non-functional and functional requirements. Along with that, have a project budget estimate handy and outline the business needs.

 

Step 2. Documentation

 

The business analysts and project managers at this stage will chart out the specifications of the project. This will include all project-related documents, basically an app blueprint describing how your app is expected to perform.

 

Step 3. Prototyping

 

The prototype of the future app along with scenes and user journeys is created by the mobile development team. This is the stage where you can imagine the future of your app and share your feedback and thoughts with the core team.

 

Step 4. UI/UX Design

 

The design team basis your screen prototype works on the app UI/UX design. You can begin visualizing what your app screens are going to look like at this stage.

 

Step 5. Development

 

All the necessary features in this phase are integrated by the mobile development team post finalization of the app design. As the process of app development progresses forward, you or your project manager may add or subtract precise requirements basis the project’s functionality.

 

 

Step 6. Quality Assurance& Testing

 

Quality Assurance is carried out by the QA team to ensure that the features and functions are performing as per plan. Testing also ascertains that the application is free of bugs.

 

Step 7. Deployment

 

Once the QA team certifies that the app is ready, the development team publishes it on relevant app stores for users to download.

 

Step 8. App Monetization

 

Once the app has been deployed, you also need to look at ways for the app to generate revenue. Take a look at these recommended routes:

 

  • In-between Snap Ads
  • Branded GeoFilters
  • Sponsored Lenses
  • The “Discover” section
  • Sports Partnerships
  • In-app purchases
  • Premium access

 

Tech Stack For The Snapchat-Like App

 

When you create an app like Snapchat, you may consider the following tech stack combinations

 

  • Development Languages: Python, Objective-C(iOS), Cocoa Touch, PHP
  • Hosting: Google Compute Engine
  • Front-end: Semantic UI
  • Back-end: Goole App Engine

 

What is the cost to create an App Like Snapchat?

 

Experts recommend allocating at least a year to build a comprehensive and complex app like Snapchat.

 

Check out the features along with the estimated costs and development timelines

 

Feature Development Timelines Cost for Android in US dollars Cost for iOS in US dollars
Automatically self-destructed messages 1.5 months for two platforms – iOS and Android. 9000 10,000
Location sharing 120 hours 2000 to 4000 for both platforms
Snapcodes 1 month 8000 to 10,000 8000 to 10,000
Nearby function 7 days 3000 3000
Video and Audio Calls 1 month 14,000 12,000
Lenses or Filters 1 month 8000 8000

 

It is suggested that you build your application on the MVP model. Developing it on the MVP platform will enable you to include essential features and functions as given below

 

Feature Description Estimation in Hours
Registration/ login feature Email, Phone number, Social network Around 10 to 16 hours
User profile Profile picture, Password, Contact details, Name, Gender, Phone Number From 60+ hours
Posting Users can postImages, Videos

Users can apply editing tools like Effects, Filters, Smileys, Emoticons

 Up to 320 hours

Applying filters 120+ hours

Creating custom filters 120+ hours

Cropping and rotating photos 80+ hours
Embedded messenger Enable users to exchange messages Up to 40 hours

 

The essential features phase is total around 430+ man hours at least.

The overall time estimate will look something like this

 

  • Business analysis: 225 hours
  • Project management: 223 hours
  • Frontend for iOS: 513 hours
  • Frontend for Android: 519 hours
  • Backend development: 681 hours
  • Quality assurance: 163 hours
  • UI/UX for iOS: 297 hours
  • UI/UX for Android: 307 hours

 

Creating an app like Snapchat is a complex process. Your core team should include the following members

 

  • UI/UX designers
  • iOS and Android developers
  • QA engineers

 

The average rate of your development team will vary anywhere between $25 to $ 43 depending on their location.

 

  • United States: $ 150 per hour
  • Central and Western Europe: $ 43 per hour
  • Scandinavia: $ 42 per hour
  • India: $ 40 per hour
  • Baltic States: $ 28 per hour
  • Eastern Europe: $ 26 per hour
  • Ukraine: $ 25 per hour

 

Read Also: How to Create an App like YouTube

 

The Bottom Line

 

Undoubtedly, Snapchat with its unique set of core features and functions is the reigning king of the social messaging app space. With its numerous photo and video editing tools, young adults have found a new voice of visual communication.

 

hire mobile app developers

 

When you begin with your app development process, it will be a smart move to study how Snapchat has journeyed through its various stages of growth and expansion. Deep dive into these learnings and start benchmarking. It is not necessary to make an identical clone but bring out your unique idea into the forefront.

 

So, what are you waiting for? Take inspiration from the Snapchat story and get your journey on the tracks. Get in touch with a credible mobile app development company to kickstart your project.

How To Create An App Like YouTube

Posted on by Redbytes UK SEO

The root of every global business began as a start-up. The good news is that the basic technology to lay the foundations of their digital offering is accessible in the public domain. So, it is a definite possibility that your app may just be the next success story.

 

Have you been thinking of developing a video sharing app like YouTube? No doubt, creating an app like youtube is a massive undertaking. But before plunging deep into the ‘how to’ of the process, let’s take a look at some vital data on YouTube.

 

YouTube – An Overview

 

youtube

 

Launched in 2005, YouTube is now the most popular online video sharing channel in the world today.

 

It encompasses every type of video and audio user-generated content including TV clips, music videos and other video clips, such as short original videos, video blogs, gaming videos, educational videos and instructional videos on everything from language learning to DIY.

 

Stats report that YouTube has over 2 billion logged users on a monthly basis making it the most sought after video-sharing channel.

 

With a more penetrated smartphone and internet connectivity has made YouTube into a global platform. In the last few years, YouTube has also become a channel where users can make money.

 

The majority of the content is available on a free to view basis. To date, it is one of the most popular applications that users download from the Android and iOS play stores.

 

 

A Guide to Create A YouTube Like App

 

There are several factors that need to be taken into consideration when you start your journey to create an app like youtube. These include app design, features and functionalities, servers, development teams, and overall app development cost.

 

Take a look at this step-by-step guide to create a YouTube clone app.

 

Read Also: 11 Easy Steps to Create a Mobile Application

 

Shortlist the Features For Your Video Sharing App

 

If you opt for an MVP application at the very onset, you can choose a basic list of must-have features for your video sharing application at the point of publishing it on the play stores. Here is a list for ready reference.

 

Search Videos: In a video sharing app like YouTube, the Search feature is of primary importance. The manner in how effectively and efficiently it functions can make or break the success of the application. Incorporate the search feature where users are able to look up videos by title, publisher or random keywords too. Keep adding filters to enhance the user experience of the search option.

 

Drag & Drop / Remote Video Upload: Having a Drag and Drop feature enables users to upload low to medium-sized videos from Google Drive, Dropbox, local disk or even more locations. Even video content from FTP or HTTP locations can be accessed automatically by incorporating remote video upload features.

 

Frames Preview: With a Frames Preview option, you can modify or alter video thumbnails as per your requisites. This allows the user to deliver the perfect preview frame on your YouTube-like video-sharing channel. Moreover, the functionality should be able to offer a choice in thumbnails in order to host videos from the cloud or local disk.

 

Live Streaming: Live Streaming for any video streaming app like YouTube is a vital feature. This allows your users to reach out directly to their followers or audience base and even go beyond their immediate customer target circle. You do not have to exactly follow what YouTube does its live streaming. Instead, work on your own set of innovative streaming experience that gives the user something extra to look forward to.

 

Playlist: When you create an app like youtube it is not just limited to sharing or streaming videos. It also needs to be a storehouse for a massive playlist of music and videos which the user should be able to personalize as per the likes.

 

Multi-channel Support: The Multi-channel Support feature enables the users to upload their audio and video content and share them as a playlist or also on a subscription format. This should be made manageable either from the profile directly or as a default mechanism of the channel via the channel management page.

 

Push-Notifications: With so much content accessible on the application, it is necessary for your userbase to be kept informed of any new addition that falls under the purview of their preferences. The Push Notifications feature can also be used to keep your customers updated on premium services and upcoming deals.

 

Social Media Sharing: Just like any other social or messaging app, a video sharing application like YouTube must also offer the users an opportunity to share the video or audio content that they upload or like on their personal social handles such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, etc. This allows them to increase follower engagement whilst boosting new traffic to their channels.

 

Analytics: It is critical of an app like YouTube to have a robust Analytics tool embedded in order to have a comprehensive understanding of user demographics, current viewership status, and real-time performance statistics. The integration of Analytics also permits the app admin to generate periodic reports on various app segments to the minutest detail of a single video or audio content. Therefore, this functionality is essential for you to know what features and content are working for you and what’s not.

 

Multi-tiered Security: When you have the provision for users to upload audio–video content on the application, you need to ascertain that there are adequate security encryptions in place. Remember that you will need your users to create user accounts on your platform or login via social media profile or their Google ids. All of these data should be under layers of security protection to prevent unauthorized access to the system.

 

Responsive Design: Ensure when you build your application, that the user interface adheres to a responsive design benchmarking against domain leaders like YouTube. You can opt to use from a vast array of templates, designs, fonts, and more and also allow end-user feedback to tailor the design partly. Check on multiple devices like smartphones and tablets to ensure that responsive design works.

 

Admin Panel: As you design your front end features and functionalities, the backend must be sustained by an efficient Admin Panel that provides managerial support to the application. This will allow you to work your way through keeping a record of all essential data and insights along with successfully organizing and managing content on the app.

 

How to Monetize Your Video Sharing App?

app-monetization

It is not just enough to build your application; your video-sharing app must be able to generate revenue for you too. For this, you need to ensure that you monetize the videos in the following ways:

 

Subscription Model: Introduce a reasonable fee that your loyal users will not mind paying in order to view quality content. Enabling this model can ensure that you generate handsome revenue with an ever-increasing user base.

 

Advertisement: As your app gathers a significant user base, you can attract advertisers to market their products and services on your video streaming platform. YouTube has cleverly integrated the advertising option in-between content which has worked well in the larger scheme of things.

 

Pay Per View: The Pay Per View model works on the concept of allowing the user to only pay for the content that they wish to view. It also enables the Admin to understand which content is being viewed more frequently in comparison to all uploaded premium content.

 

Purchasable Asset: Promote your videos by enabling content to be downloaded for offline viewing. This can be a monetization strategy that brings in a steady income flow and helps in scaling your business too.

 

Read Also: Mobile App Business Model [A Comprehensive Guide]

 

How Much Does It Cost To Create An App Like YouTube

 

To create an app like youtube may seem like a relatively simple and not very expensive at first glance. It is anything but that.

 

A YouTube clone app that is highly functional, yet lightweight and simple needs a skilled development team working in the backend. Ideally, your development team should comprise of the following specialists

  • Project Manager
  • iOS developers
  • Android developers
  • UI and UX designers for Android and iOS platforms
  • Back-end coders
  • Software tester

 

The average time that will be required to create an app like youtube is anywhere between 160 to 240 working hours or 4 to 6 weeks. There are factors like interface complexity, the number of additional features, settings, and so on that will also end up determining the overall time required to develop the video-sharing app.

 

A key element that is also a deciding factor on arriving at a cost estimate to build this video streaming application is the hourly rates of your core development team. Take a look.

 

  • Android Developer – $15 to $40 per hour
  • iOS Developer – $15 to $45 per hour
  • UX/UI Designer – $10 to $35 per hour
  • Back-end developer – $10 to $45 per hour
  • Project manager – $15 to $45 per hour
  • QA Engineer – $10 to $30 per hour

 

Other than that, the experience of your development team will also help you determine your overall costing for the app.

 

For example, if you opt for a relatively simple version of the application which can be developed by a team of Junior Developers, the cost will hover around $ 12,000.

 

However, if you choose to go with a slightly more robust version of the app incorporating simple to medium complex features and functionalities, the cost will be somewhere close to $ 30,000.

 

This version of the app will include responsive design created for both the iOS and Android platforms by a team of experienced developers.

 

Lastly, if your app incorporates a number of complex and custom-designed features and functions with high-end design and user interface, it can cost you around $ 55,000.

 

The app will comprise responsive design and available on both iOS and Android platforms and developed by a team of sought-after developers.

 

It is best not be start developing on both the iOS and Android platforms simultaneously. Let your development concentrate on one platform first and then move on to the next. This process is more time-efficient, cost-effective, and simple.

 

In fact, an MVP app with a multi-platform development approach can be a complicated procedure. In most cases, the cost runs higher than anticipated and the process of development can encounter several challenges and roadblocks.

 

Adopting a hybrid development approach for the MVP app version may also prove to be more affordable in the long run. In comparison to native applications, hybrid apps are economical.

 

For Android app development, this is one of the safest methods for creating the application. Hybrid development can work offline offering superior visuals compared to web apps.

 

Read Also: App Development Cost-Design, Development, Deployment

 

Final Thoughts

 

 

To Create an app like youtube may be a herculean task but it is not an impossible one. The core aspects that you need to control are being organized and mobilizing the available and financial and human resources to its maximum potential.

 

Have your blueprint of the application design, feature specifications, and your development team already and geared before you begin the actual process.

 

So, without much ado, start the process.

How to Create an App Like edX

Posted on by Redbytes UK SEO

If you are looking for university-level online programs, edX is bound to pop up in your internet search results.

 

edX is a cutting-edge online learning and education app developed by  some of the best brains from MIT and Harward University. The application hosts 2500+ online courses ranging across subjects like web development, computer science, and programming, business, design, etc.

 

These certificate programs are offered by some of the top-ranked universities and industry-leading companies in the world and taught by experts from the best institutions, globally.

 

The app is a student’s private classroom that helps him or her to gain knowledge, learn new skills and earn a certification that is recognized worldwide.

 

The app was initially launched in 2012 and more than a year later it has over a million users already. The goal for edX is to become the leading Massive Open Online Courses or MOOC in the world.

 

Trends & Statistics

 

The e-Learning market is expected to reach $ 325 billion by 2025, according to Forbes. With such potential, it is not surprising that so many edu start-ups are entering the market with a lot of unique concepts, capabilities, and offerings.

edX trends and statistics

But having a billion-dollar idea is not enough in this competitive environment. Apart from your brilliant idea you also need a dependable platform to transform the project into something like edX.

 

So how do you create an app like edX which will achieve guaranteed success? You have to list down the must-have features and models. Other than that, what you also need to know is how much will it cost to create an edX app?

 

Read Also: Top 10 Kids Learning Apps UK 2020

 

Steps to Create an App Like edX

 

steps to create an app like edx

 

It is not an easy job to create an app like edX. To begin with, you must be able to identify what your requirements are. Next, you need to list down the essential features that will make your app stand out amongst your competition.

 

Follow these recommended steps:

 

Develop a Mind Map: The primary component of the e-learning app is its user experience. When you start developing the app, you should conceptualize the interface from your user perspective. There should be a fine line where you can blend them with your business successfully.

 

Through a graphical representation of the mind map, you can chalk out the categories, features and their relevant functions. Think of actions and their corresponding reactions to these features and functions. Take into account the business model and all technical requirements needed to build the application.

 

Wireframes for a Better Vision: Wireframes represent the layout of the website using graphical diagrams. You can also call it the blueprint of the website that portrays every individual element. The function of the wireframe is to ensure that the development team and client have a clear vision of the project and what the app’s features and potential are.

 

User-intuitive UI Design: Make sure that your UI and UX are user-friendly and intuitive as that is the first point of interaction between the business and the customer. If that fails to impress, the user, in probability will not be coming back to the application in the future.

 

Testing for Constructive Feedback: Share your app’s blueprint with a few users and see if the e-learning application has any real impact. Getting their recommendations is useful as making changes in the planning stage is easy.

 

Before making the app live, you need to ascertain that your application is functioning as per expectation. The best way forward is to share the beta version with some real users who are a part of your target audience. Get some honest feedback of them and use to it improve your app’s efficiency.

 

Custom-Made Platform or Customize an Open-Source Platform: There are two approaches for your e-learning application. You can either opt for a custom-designed platform or go for an open-source one.

 

Find the Team: While you are in your planning stage, you also need to hire the relevant team to develop an application for you. You can start interviewing reliable vendors or go for freelancers.

 

Decide on Your Technology Stack: For an e-learning application, you need an advanced technology stack, very similar to edX.

 

Here is what we recommend:

  • Language: JavaScript, Python, PHP, Scala
  • Web Server: Nginx
  • Storage: Amazon S3
  • Database: MySQL, Amazon Relational Database Service
  • Search: Elastic Search, Amazon CloudSearch

 

Essential Features of the App

 

app features of edx app

 

Now that you have decided to enter the education space, you should initially concentrate on the core offerings of your e-learning app. Ideally, the app should offer one or more of these benefits:

  • Have a lot of useful educational content that offers learning experiences
  • Ensure that the student – app interactions are bug-free and seamless
  • Learners should be able to monitor and track their progress in real-time

 

Once you have your core capabilities in place, you must make a list of your essential app features.

 

Take a quick look at the MVP features of an e-learning platform:

 

Registration: Every single user, be it student or teacher must go through a process of authentication. This can be done by using their unique email id or phone number, plus a password. Another way of doing it is by using popular social networking sites like Facebook and Google.

 

Profile Management: The features under Profile Management will depend on the type of profile being created. In this case, a student or a teacher. Having said that, some features and details are common to both such as:

  • User info and profile pic
  • List of active and/or completed courses
  • Information about certificates/points/credits
  • Purchase history
  • Settings page

 

In addition to the above, the teacher’s profile should have:

  • Info page (with information about degree or establishment they represent)
  • List of added courses

 

Search Filters: In an app like edX that contains 2000+ courses, there must be a filter that can help users search for their preferred program. This can be in the form of a search bar that is keyword enabled. Alternatively, it can also be done using categories on the main interface of the app. Users can also use the filter function and check by level, price, language, rates, and so on.

 

Dashboard: For any e-learning app both students and teachers must be able to monitor their progress online. All of this can be done through a unified dashboard.

 

The insights generated such as their completion status, the number of hours they’ve spent on a course, etc. are extremely useful for students to move forward with their chosen program. Teachers, on the other hand, can keep a track of the courses added to their profiles, the number of enrolled students, traffic, ratings, earnings, and more.

 

Course Page: How will you make your course page stand out on the application? Make sure that it carries the course description, information on the program creators, list of topics and materials followed by a review section.

 

You must build in the architecture to include videos, recordings, podcasts, chats, and interactive textbooks. You can go one step further and incorporate elements of gamification which can help in engaging students too.

 

The final step should be an automatic certificate generation upon course completion. If automation is not possible, the administrators can manually do it.

 

 

Payment Methods: If you are going to develop your e-learning platform on a paid model, which means that your courses have a fee attached to them, then you have to have a payment gateway integrated with the application too. The process should be seamless, meaning, students should not face too many challenges in making a payment and teachers should be able to conveniently collect their earnings.

 

Popular methods that can be offered are net banking, debit and credit cards, GPay and other third party gateways. Remember that when you are dealing with money, you must ensure that your application abides by all financial guidelines and security measures relevant to monetary transactions.

 

Course-Making & Editing Page: When you develop your e-learning application, the architecture should be able to accommodate more programs and courses in the future. The probability of the course numbers increasing is way higher than them going down.

 

Hence, you will need the necessary tools to create courses, edit program structure, add materials, content, exercises, links and any other relevant resources such as audio files, videos, and PDFs.

 

Notifications & Reminders: No app is complete without a system of reminders and notifications. With this feature, you can ensure that your users are always well informed about new courses, program updates, reviews, and recommendations, any upcoming events. The notification system alerts the user on any pending app updates.

 

Admin Panel: Minus an admin panel, your e-learning app will never work successfully. All the content is managed by the administrators via the admin panel. They can additionally make edits or delete programs, check insights, generate reports, manage notifications and circulate emailers through the admin panel.

 

How Much Does it Cost to Create an App like edX?

 

app cost

 

The most important aspect of any app development is budgeting. If you do not have the funds, then your edX like the app is going to be a dream.

 

So, what is the cost to create an app like edX?

 

For an e-learning application like edX, with the must-have features already discussed, the development cost will be anywhere between $54,750 and $62,500.

 

This is based on the assessment that the development team will be based in Eastern Europe such as Ukraine and will work at an hourly rate of $50. The project should take approximately 1,095 hours to 1250 hours from conception to launch.

 

However, if you choose to build a fully custom-designed platform, then it will cost you some serious money, effort and time. You will also need a team of experienced and efficient software developers to create the application.

 

Either way, accurate pricing can also be arrived at once you have decided on your application requirements. Also, the development team’s country of residence will make a difference to the overall expenditures.

 

Here is a rough assessment:

  • Eastern Europe. $54,750 and $62,500 (based on $50/h)
  • Central and Western Europe. $109,500-$125,000 (based on $100/h)
  • The USA. $164,250-$187,500 (based on $150/h)
  • $109,500-$125,000 (based on $100/h)

 

The more complex your platform becomes, the more development time and money it is going to take to make it live on the app stores.

 

Read Also: How to Reduce the App Development Cost ?

 

Closing Thoughts

 

Reports show that the corporate online learning industry grew by 900% between 2001 to 2017. And in terms of environment, e-learning is certainly a more sustainable alternative to traditional classroom-style education.

 

No doubt, online learning is the future with benefits galore.

 

 

So, if you are considering creating an app like edX, there is no better time than now for educationist start-ups or entrepreneurs to build their e-learning app to earn serious money.

 

All you need now is the right idea that brings a solution to a learning problem, backed by a solid business model, and the support of an experienced team of developers.

How to Create an App Like Spotify?

Posted on by Redbytes UK SEO

The Spotify Story

 

The Spotify application was officially launched in 2008. Since then, it has become one of the leading music streaming apps boasting a 40% share of online music that is downloaded. To put things into perspective, the application garnered revenues of a staggering EUR 4.09 billion in just four short years.

 

spotify

 

If you are looking for easily accessible music streaming app to benchmark, then Spotify is the perfect example. Recent app store rating pegs it at 4.8 in iTunes and 4.6 in the Google Play Store.

 

Why you need to create an app like Spotify?

 

The Spotify music catalog incorporates more than 11 million music tracks and the number of paid subscriptions was 12.5 million.

 

Spotify operates  uniquely than any other music apps available in the market. Their primary focus is on making your music streaming experience as consistent as possible.

 

How is that possible?

 

spotify statistics

Because they store their music on  several servers. Hence, when you start streaming a specific track, the device automatically surveys through all available servers, which run into millions at a time.

 

These servers are gadgets and computers of fellow users. Spotify servers make use of their cache memory of the user’s devices to access the newest downloaded data to achieve more accuracy.

 

So, what’s the idea that led to so many music streaming apps like Spotify entering the market? Simply because entrepreneurs have been able to identify that there is a need to create an app like Spotify.

 

Therefore, if you wish to gain a strong foothold in the music then you are probably wondering what’s the best way forward to develop a Spotify clone application.

 

Read Also: 13 Best Music Player Apps 2020

 

How to Create A Music Streaming App Like Spotify?

 

With a multi-million customer base, Spotify today has reached the zenith due to its continued hard work. To reach the same level and standard, here’s what you need to do:

steps-to-create-an-app-like-spotify

 

1) Let’s Talk About the Idea

 

Start the process with a solid and groundbreaking idea; basically what you want your app to look like. Check out similar music streaming applications and examine their pros and cons.

 

Only practice, hard work and leaving no stone unturned can help you make it big in this sector. It will drive you to create an app like Spotify that is one of its kind.

 

2) What You Need to Plan and Estimate

 

While there are tons of opportunities to explore in the music app streaming industry, you still need to build your foundation with a lot of research.

 

Target users, their likes, their lifestyles are some of the insights that should be available at your fingertips. You should be able to come up with the best conclusion to hit the ground running with your MVP. Have the provision to set your app preferences according to your customer expectations.

 

3) Have the License to Create A Music Streaming App

 

You cannot proceed ahead with your plans of creating a music app like Spotify without obtaining a license to stream your audio content. The licence in Europe is handled by the European Stage Authors and Composers.

 

4) Hire Music App Developers

 

You will need to kickstart your app development project by hiring a team of developers. This is the recommended team composition:

 

A Project Manager who will supervise the development of the complete music streaming app. He or she will also act as the point of contact between the development team and you.

 

UX and UI designers will be responsible to create an app interface that is user-friendly and intuitive.

 

A team of developers who will build the program structure. They will come up with accurate and readable codings for both Android and iOs platforms.

 

QA Engineers will be required to test all aspects of your application to make sure that it is bug-free and features and functioning as per expectation.

 

5) Get Ready with The Prototype

 

Do not make the mistake of skipping this phase. You should develop an app prototype first that should be shared with your target customer base. Ensure that it is a clickable version.

 

Your prototype should mirror the actual end product that your customer is expected to receive. This is also the time when you can fix bugs and loopholes after gaining feedback from your users. It also comes at the lowest possible price.

 

6)Think About the MVP First

 

You should be prepared to finalize your MVP at this stage. Have all other parameters in place and buckle up for the real game.

 

An experienced project manager is required to lead the team and start building the application that you envisioned.

 

7) Test, Test, And Test Again

 

Another round of testing is mandatory once your application has been created. Make sure that you test the application in depth.

 

Features to Keep in Mind to Make A Music App Like Spotify

 

spotify features - create an app like spotify

 

When you create an app like Spotify, you must incorporate a list of must-have features that will ensure that the application is going to go down well with your target audience.

 

Here is a list of features for ready reference.

 

1) Registration – Your Gateway to The Application

 

Registration is the primary feature of any music streaming application. Once your users download the app from iTunes or Google Play Store, they should be able to get themselves authorized to use it.

 

The app admin receives the user information during the authorization step. This helps them to recommend personalized music depending on individual user preferences. Ensure that you have sufficient bandwidth to accommodate the volumes of data that you will receive post app launch.

 

What’s most important is that the interface should be kept simple and smooth. Allow your users with the option to register using their social media accounts or email id/phone numbers. Offer perks if your registered users share the app on their private social media accounts.

 

Enabling this referral option at this stage will help you to get new subscribers for your music application, plus a strong brand presence on social channels too.

 

 

2) Focus on The Music Tracks

 

Your music application should incorporate features and functions that should enable the user an easy filter or sort through the process to look for music tracks, are best suited to their tastes. You can try out a combination of different settings and variables depending on the level of user access.

 

Enable features that allow users to customize their playlist. It can depend on several factors including genres, situations, artist, moods, etc.

 

3) Easier Way to Find the Favourite Track

 

Have a search function integrated with your music streaming app. This will help your registered users to easily search for their favorite music tracks.

 

Moreover, the Search feature is important since it makes the process of navigation through the application quite easy as it is going to house millions of songs. Additionally, users can personalize their music experience using this feature too.

 

This is important as the world is moving quickly towards everything  available fast and on-demand. Getting access to their preferred tracks instantly is how the Search function fulfills this expectation.

 

4) Socialize Them Through Your App

 

Your application should drive your users to follow their favorite bands, artists, musicians. They can share their music experiences with the new friends that they make via the app. Such a unique feature is sure to catch everyone’s attention that allows people to socialize over their love for music.

 

Enable them to share their favorite tracks with friends and loved ones over social media channels too. Remember to add all relevant and popular social media icons for easy sharing when you create a music streaming app.

 

Great social media exposure will also boost your music app as more subscribers will get added to your network.

 

Read Also: 10 Best Free Music Apps 2020

 

5) Push Notifications

 

You need to inform your app users of new features, functions, tracks that are being added or updated on the application. In fact, for a music streaming app, this is quite a deciding feature as your users will want to remain updated on the latest music that is available through it.

 

Push notifications are the way to go about communicating with your user base in a seamless and non-intrusive manner.

 

6) Let Mobile Network Not Hamper Their Music Experience

 

Introduce the feature of downloading tracks on the user’s device in exchange for saving some real-time information. At the expense of occupying space on the user device, this helps them to continuously listen to their favorite tracks even if there is no internet connectivity.

 

So, whether you are riding the underground or riding inside the elevator, your music will always be playing. It is that simple a solution.

 

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

 

app cost - create an app like spotify

 

You will need to take into account some key factors before you proceed. The price for app development will be a deciding element of course.

 

To help you with that, here are some rough estimations of developer costs on a per hour basis:

  • USA/ Canada: $50 to $250/hour
  • Western Europe: $30 to $170/hour
  • Eastern Europe: $25 to $150/hour
  • Australia: $50 to $150/hour
  • India: $10 to $80/hour

 

Here is a summarised budget that you will need to create a Spotify like application.

 

  • MVP model: 50 USD to 80 USD

 

Support for different platforms:

  • iOS: 80 USD to 120 USD. May be higher in some cases, depending on integrated functionalities

 

  • Android: 95 USD to 150 USD. Again, features and functions will determine the end cost.

 

Both platforms:

  • 150 USD – 190 USD.

 

And again, the price will increase or decrease in case you wish to introduce more complex functionalities and features in your Spotify app clone.

 

Now you are aware of the necessary information about the price to create a music app. Also, remember to take a look at the app development company’s project history too.

 

Read Also: Top 10 Live Streaming Apps 2020

 

Final Thoughts

 

Everyone will  agree that music is the best way that people connect all over the world. Hence, the reason why the music industry is timeless and growing at breakneck speed.

 

 

Whilst Spotify has played all their cards right and is currently occupying the top spot, let that not be a deterrent in you coming up with a music streaming application that may be equally good or even better.

 

If you have an idea and wish to take if further, choose a mobile app development company to help you in the process and become the next big unicorn in the music streaming app industry.

How to Create an App Like MyFitnessPal [Cost Included]

Posted on 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.

 

myfitnesspal logo

 

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.

 

market value

 

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.

 

statistics

 

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

 

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

 

myfitnessapp features

 

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 ?

 

app 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.

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

Posted on 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.

create an app like PayPal

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

 

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

 

paypal app features

 

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?

how app make 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

 

trends and stat

 

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

 

paypal app cost

 

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 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.

airbnb logo

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.

 

Airbnb features - 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

 

Airbnb host features - create an app like Airbnb

 

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

 

admin panel airbnb - create an app like Airbnb

 

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

 

Airbnb-stats - create an app like Airbnb

 

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.

How to Create an App like Tinder?

Posted on 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

 

dating world

 

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

 

 

TinderLogo

 

 

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

 

app features

 

 

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

 

tinder app features

 

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

 

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.

 

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How to Outsource App Development in the Right Way?

Posted on by Redbytes UK SEO

All kind of businesses and services are currently standing on the miracles of an app. Any kind of organization, in order to achieve more public connectivity, relies on a relevant app.

 

If you too are thinking of launching your own business and eventually building your very own mobile app for that, then outsource the app development, that can actually be a much more affordable option and more efficient for many reasons.

 

 

A huge number of businesses have started outsourcing aspects of their jobs to save on resources and time and get service on a more professional level.

 

It is seen that in 2016, nearly 72% of all businesses worldwide have outsourced their information technology-related needs. And the number is continuously growing very fast.

 

The best thing about outsourcing is that it can considerably reduce your costs, cutting down the quantity of risk which is involved and create outstanding results.

 

But running your cell phone app from all over the world surely can be very intimidating.

 

Read Also: App Development-Cost, Design, Development, Deployment

 

Before you embark on this app development journey, it is best to get acquainted with some useful tricks and tips which are very relevant and effective for handling your mobile app’s development and achieving the best possible outcome.

 

Before you kick start the process you have to know and understand your requirements. You will have to look for a pertinent experience. You are going to have to ask a lot of questions.

 

Also setting clear expectations and requesting a project brief after collaborating with a partner is a great plan. You will have to always remember that the key is always communication.

 

Lets’ have a look at some of the key points you should keep in mind before starting outsource your app development.

 

1) Know and Understand Your Requirements

 

outsource app development

 

Before you begin searching for app development choices, you would like to understand what precisely you wish to get out of the app. Knowing what you want will assist you to communicate your needs clearly to the developer.

 

If you do not understand, it is quite possible for you to end up with an app that does not mix well with your expectations and/or does not work that efficiently. Moreover, the more changes you want, the more you are going to waste your money and your time.

 

This brings you to some very important questions that you must consider before deciding what are going to be your requirements.

  • Who your customer is?
  • What is the need for the app you want?
  • What’s the conspicuous characteristic of the app?
  • What other characteristics are you going to need?
  • Is the app better of paid or free?
  • What is the monetization strategy going to be of your app?
  • What is better suited for you, a hybrid app or a native app?

 

2) Picking up the Perfect Development Option

 

outsource app development

 

You have to remember that there’s not one option which is going to be perfect for all of the businesses and apps out there. It will all depend on how you require it or want it and obviously how much you can afford.

 

So, before you decide who it is that you want the app development to outsource, you have to count the cons and pros for all the options.

 

You can decide to farm out the app development to specialized firms and agencies which generally have expert teams to present you with good results and an approach which is strategy-focused.

 

Though this option may be comparatively costlier and is most probably not at all apt for medium or small scale businesses which are generally performing or running operations on very tight budgets.

 

Outsourcing the app development towards an independent or a freelance developer may be a much more economical alternative for small or medium-small businesses.

 

Furthermore, even if somehow you do succeed in finding a technically enhanced developer, there will be very little chances for you to have any luck with the strategy aspect and market research aspects of the process of app development.

 

Still, it would be right to say that independent or freelance developers are actually great only if you do not require a very complex, high-end app, or that all you want is decent and usable customization with a technically and visually sound and good product.

 

Some other options generally include the app being outsourced to foreign developers and firms who uses drop-and-drag building technique to develop mobile apps.

 

Some foreign developers can actually offer you the most effective solution for your pocket but they may not turn out to be a good mix for your needs and culture.

 

Without first-hand experience, they might not target the market needs of your society quite rightly, maintaining the quality standards that you aim to achieve.

 

3) You have to look for Pertinent Experience

 

outsource app development

Whenever you hire someone for a particular job, the first thing you look at is their ability to do the work. That aspect is best analyzed by finding out more about their experience.

 

The same thing happens when you outsource a job to a particular developer. The first thing you look at when you hire them is their portfolio.

 

You will have to remember though that just seeing their usual experience is not going to cut the clutter well enough. You will have to search for the experience which is actually pertinent to the app development process if you want to have a genuinely great product in your hand at the end of the process.

 

You can look if the developer, who you want to outsource the job to, created any apps which are similar to your app in before or not?

 

If they don’t have the exact experience as per your required field then find out if they have experience in a similar field or not. It will help you understand if they can manage it or not.

 

Read Also: How To Choose the Best Mobile App Development Technology

 

4) You Will Always Have to Remember That the Main Key Is Communication

 

outsource app development

 

You should not even underestimate the power of communication and especially when the thing comes to outsource your app for development.

 

Remember whenever you are searching to find the perfect developer for your app to hire, you have to search for outstanding communication skills plus responsiveness at the person who is going to do the job.

 

You can simply go through a simple development process just by making sure that you and the developer both are not frightened to question anything to each other and fix any kind of confusions and also responding to each other.

 

If you do not communicate very often then it might happen that you are not always in the same chapter as the developer is. That can lead to big-time mess situations, cost problems, conflicts and confusions.

 

It’s also very important for you to clarify and establish the mediums using which you are planning to communicate in the future with your partner or developer.

 

For instance, if you are planning using various mediums like a collaborative team effort, then you should email to clarify it with your developer about which channel are you going to use.

 

Other very common and simple issues include between the clients and developer is that the lack of something called proactive communication.

 

You should never wait for your partner to ask questions. If you think you need to ask any question or something is not right or there is or maybe any kind of confusion that is going to arise then you must address and clarify the before it becomes a mess.

 

This can and will help to reduce the amount of time which you would have otherwise wasted by waiting in order to get a relatable question to come up to answer them for the other party to start thinking about solutions regarding it.

 

You should also never forget about interactive communication which is generally much more useful than addressing communications. You should listen carefully about what your partner or developer wants to say.

 

You should never just boss them around. You have to make sure that the communication process is generally a two-way conversation, and then you should behave with the developer like a colleague, not a subordinate.

 

5) You Should Never Back Out on Asking Questions

 

outsource app development

 

You should never be frightened of asking relevant questions. Not just in this case but in any case, asking questions is always the right thing.

 

This is more important in the case of foreign app outsource cases or development relationships where communication is not generally able to flow as it does in proximate cases.

 

Just remember that if you want to employ someone you should always choose also a responsive person who is always open to having meaningful communication.

 

When you are interviewing a developer, you should not hire anyone who does not answer the questions you are asking properly.

 

6) Set the Expectation Perfectly and Clarify Them

 

clarity

 

This is a very important point especially in the case of outsourcing to an offshore development project.

 

All you need is to set the expectations as clear as possible in order to make yourself and your partner both understand what you are supposed to do and what you are expected be doing, why and how, when you are doing it.

 

7) You Should Always Request a Plan Beforehand

plan

You should never think twice to ask your development partner about a project plan before the outsource of the app project.

 

It is very crucial because it gives you a sense of how much serious your partner is about your app development. The process becomes much more crystal clear to you and you get a sense beforehand so there is no surprise element later.

 

Read Also: Mobile App Development Market in UK 2019

 

Conclusion

 

If you are serious about outsourcing a job to a developer be it a freelancer or an agency, you first need to believe in his or her skills and achievements.

 

mobile app development

 

You have to remember that you both have different mindsets, so have trust in them and they will provide you products accordingly.

 

Whatever route that you choose to adopt in order to develop your app, at the end of the day, you have to ensure that it is a valuable addition to your overall business goals.