How Much Does It Cost To Develop a Social Media App?

Social Media App Development
7 min read

There have been significant improvements in technology over the last few years. Advanced technologies have led us to change our lifestyles. Mobile apps have been the daily drivers of how we plan and control our lives. So, the question always arises, “How much does it cost to develop a Social Media App?” 

Let’s understand this in detail.

In this vast change, Social Media Apps have been the core element that has changed how we used to communicate. From Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram to Threads, every trending social media app is shaping the next generation. 

As per the survey report of Datereportal, there have been 4.88 Billion social media users worldwide by the end of July 2023. Also, the average time a user spends on social media is 150 minutes daily. 

In this blog, we will identify the factors influencing the cost of developing a social media app. 

What is the Minimum Cost For Social Media App Development? 

The minimum cost for Social Media App Development starts from USD 30,000 with basic features. The price may increase depending on the compatibility for OS platforms, features, functionalities, and the client’s SoW – Scope of Work. By looking at the SoW document, the client’s demands can be maximized, which may influence the Social Media app’s cost. 

Cost Factors of Social Media Development App

Cost Factors of Social Media Development App

1) Market Research

Social Media App Development is a large project, and proper market research is mandatory to succeed and engage users. Understanding the target audience, key competitors, and market trends helps identify what needs to be done in the development phase. 

Once the market research is complete, the roadmap for the app should be developed to save development time & cost. 

2) Development

Social media app development is possible in 3 different ways. 

  • Native App Development: In this approach, the app’s performance will be excellent and stand out among users and competitors. But, separate development teams are required for iOS and Android OS versions. So, the development cost slightly increases with this approach. 
  • Hybrid App Development: A hybrid or Cross-platform development approach is cost-effective, and the user doesn’t have to compromise features available in a native app. 
  • Web App Development: Another approach can be a web version of the app that works like an app but is a website. In this approach, the development cost significantly reduces. 

The app can be developed in 3 different approaches, and it solely depends on the app owner to select the one that will work best for the app’s success. 

3) Design

Design is the face of the app. When a user logs in, the UI should be of the standard that retains users. With the technical innovations and competition in the market, a rich UI is mandatory for the app’s growth. 

The app should handle multiple users without app crashes and faster navigations. Smoother the user experience, the better the user engagement. A user-friendly UI reduces user churn and customer support costs while increasing the app’s performance and positive reviews. 

4) Features & Functionality

The app’s features and functionalities play a prominent role in the cost-saving of the game. The cost will likely go higher when the app is equipped with premium features. Therefore creating a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) is essential. 

The MVP is a trial version of the final app launched to identify bugs, errors, progress, and performance in the long run. After the MVP launch, working on the feedback will improve the app’s performance, and removing unnecessary features will help reduce the development cost.  

5) Security

In Social Media Apps, there will be several users actively using the app. So user privacy is a huge concern. Security mechanisms of the app have to be given top priority. 

Looking at the legal regulations, protecting user privacy, and implementing robust security measures are essential for social media apps.

6) Marketing

Developing the app is just the beginning of the process. Marketing and user acquisition strategies must be followed to gain users and succeed in the competition. 

All these marketing and user acquisition strategies lead to higher conversion rates as users get to know about the app’s global presence. However, paid marketing, advertising, and influencer partnerships may increase the development cost as these are not free. 

Must-have Features of Social Media Apps

Features of Social Media Apps

1) Account Authentication

The primary feature of any mobile app is smoother onboarding and faster login options. Users should be able to log in via other social media apps or with an OTP system for quick access to the app. 

2) Profile Personalization

The next feature every user searches for is profile personalization in their style. They should be able to add their details in the profile personalization section. 

3) Photos & Videos Sharing

The next feature is uploading photos & videos in the social media app. Irrespective of any social media platform, this feature is a must-have and can’t be ignored. Photos and video uploading feature allows users to connect better.

In creating these sharing experiences, a reliable source for high-quality images is crucial for users. Websites such as Freepik offer trending image downloads which could be a valuable resource for app developers to better understand the type of media users engage with most.

4) Direct Message

Messaging features can be optional in different social media apps, but as of now, the current trend says it is mandatory. With this feature, users will be able to connect better privately. 

5) Search (Accounts & Events)

It allows users to search different users, events, business profiles, social pages, and communities. This feature is one of the most common features found in almost every social media app. 

6) Connect with other Social Media Apps

Allowing users to share content between multiple social media platforms is another feature that can’t be ignored. With this feature, users can communicate with a user of different social media platforms and increase their reach. 

Some Standout Features 

Some Standout Features 

1) Tagging

Tagging is an advanced feature that allows users to notify other users individually when uploading a photo or video in the app. 

2) Add Live-location

This feature allows users to share their live location with friends and family or even request Live-location from other users. 

3) Add Status/Story

This feature becomes essential if you are looking for social media app development like Facebook or Instagram. With this feature, users can upload their photos, 30-second videos that will disappear after 24 hours. 

4) Business Account

A business account on a social media app will let users know the real insights of, such as impressions on each post, weekly traffic, followers, and many more. 

Apart from all these features and factors, the type of Social Media Platform you want to develop also significantly impacts the project’s overall budget. Here are the types of Social Media Apps you can develop: 

types of Social Media Apps

  • Facebook-like App
  • Instagram-like App
  • Twitter-like App
  • WhatsApp-like App
  • LinkedIn-like App
  • Quora-like App
  • Snapchat-like App

Also Read: How much does it cost to develop a video sharing app like TikTok?

In Short!

Social media business can be profitable as it quickly acquires a large user base. However, the online world is already piled up with leading social media brands like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and many more. With unique features and intelligent innovations, there is a higher chance of succeeding in the social media app market. 

Tell us your thoughts about Social Media App Development. 

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