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In 2024, Snapchat boasts over 800 million active users, with a staggering 405 million users connecting with their loved ones daily. But who are these users? – None other than youth – the pulse of modern connectivity!
Snapchat has harnessed this youth power to become a successful enterprise. Its remarkable success story has sparked the interest of countless entrepreneurs who want to build an app like Snapchat.
However, the challenge arises regarding the cost of developing an app like Snapchat. Entrepreneurs often find themselves unsure regarding the accurate cost involved in the process.
If you are one of those entrepreneurs, look no further—this ultimate guide is for you.
Here, we’ll delve thoroughly into every aspect of Snapchat-like social media app development, exploring crucial factors, cost-effective strategies, the step-by-step development process, and the costs involved.
Without any further ado, let’s get started!
Take a look at interesting stats and facts about Snapchat:
Let's take a look at Snapchat business model canvas:
Several factors influence the Snapchat app development cost. Following, we’ve discussed them in detail. Let’s check:
#1
PlatformsBefore you start with the development process, selecting the right platform for your app – Android, iOS, or both (Cross-Platform) – is crucial.
When choosing a platform for your business, make sure to evaluate your app goals, target audience, and budget effectively.
#2
Size of the AppThe size of the app factor also determines the social networking app development cost. Check the table below:
#3
UI UX DesignIncorporating a basic UI UX design for your Snapchat-like app will be less expensive than a complex design. Let’s look at the segments involved in UI UX design –
#4
Features & FunctionalitiesIf you want to build a Snapchat-like app with basic features and functionalities, it will cost you less. On the contrary, incorporating advanced features similar to Snapchat in your app will consume more time and cost, and curate you as just another social media app.
Thus, it is not necessary to follow the trail of Snapchat. You can add features and functionalities according to your project’s goals, target audience, and other factors. Check the following list of features that you can consider including in your app.
#5
Tech StackTech Stack for building a Snapchat-like app includes the culmination of frameworks, programming languages, and tools. Incorporating an advanced technology stack will incline towards an expensive side compared to a simple tech stack.
Here we’ve provided a tech stack list that goes into Snapchat-like app development:
#6
Location-based DevelopersDevelopment companies or developers often charge based on their location, cost of living, and dwelling expenses. Here we’ve listed developer rates as per their location.
If you want a reliable partner for your project, consider hiring a reputable mobile app development company like Apptunix. Get in touch today to kickstart your business!
Following, we’ve discussed several cost-effective strategies that will help you to minimize Snapchat-like app development costs:
1.
Define Clear RequirementsUncertain or incomplete requirements commonly cause cost overruns in app development initiatives. By clearly defining all of the app's requirements, entrepreneurs may minimize cost and the need for extra development work. This proactive approach helps ensure that the project stays within its allocated budget.
2.
Opt for MVP DevelopmentGo for MVP (Minimum Viable Product) if you want to build a Snapchat-like app at a low cost. Here you will build your app with minimal or basic features and launch it in Google Play Store or Apple Store.
Once you’ve tested the app in the market, targeted a user base, and analyzed the market landscape– you can go for fully-fledged app development with the help of investors.
Here, MVP comes as a cost-effective approach that will help you to minimize your project cost, boost business revenue and present your idea to investors for funding in a hassle-free manner.
3.
Go for the Fixed Price ModelA fixed-price method reduces the risk of budget overruns. By providing a clear image of the upfront expenses, it helps ensure that the project will remain within financial restrictions.
Here, the development business offers you a fixed payment plan when the work is completed and provides you with a detailed price for the entire project.
4.
Incorporate Agile MethodologyThe Agile methodology is regarded as the best of all product development techniques. It makes development more adaptable and iterative, which drives down development costs.
Here, the software may be created in stages without adding to the costs, making the necessary iterations as needed. So, developers complete the first specific step (called a sprint) and then it is showcased to clients. Once the client approves it, the developers move to the next sprint.
Ultimately, Agile methodology also ensures the app satisfies all user requirements and needs, reducing the cost of the operation.
5.
Select the Right Providers for App DevelopmentThe choice of app development business has a significant impact on project costs. Choosing a reliable and established business increases the chances that the project will be finished on time and within budget.
Make sure to get in touch with reputable company like Apptunix that have a track record of completed projects and relevant experience.
Following, we’ve discussed a step-by-step guide to developing apps like Snapchat along with their cost breakdown. Let’s learn:
Step 1:
Research and PlanningResearch is the cornerstone of developing a robust application. Before you begin, make sure to understand the target audience, latest market trends, and potential competitors.
Next comes the conceptualization and idea validation stage. Here, the app idea is validated through focus groups, surveys, and MVP development.
Finally, make sure to document features, functionalities, and technical specifications that would go into app development.
Step 2:
Design and DevelopmentThe design and development phase follows next. The UX UI design team creates the application's user interface and experience.
By using wireframing, prototyping, and graphic design, they provide a compelling and easy-to-use application customized to meet the intended audience's needs.
After the design phase is over, the development process begins.
Developers create the front and back ends of the Snapchat-like program and integrate all necessary features and functionalities and the necessary tech stack.
Step 3:
Testing and DeploymentTesting is the crucial stage before launching of any app. It ensures that your app is operating efficiently. Therefore, make sure to test your app for any errors, bugs, or other concerns.
After testing comes the deployment stage. Here, your app will be launched on the Google Play Store or Apple Store. To enhance the overall user experience, it is also necessary to gather user input, advertise the app across many platforms, and enable reviews.
Step 4:
Maintenance and UpdatesYou must keep your Snapchat-like software up to date and make enhancements after it is launched. It guarantees that your software will remain competitive in the market and meet the demands of your customers.
Developing a Snapchat-like social media app is obviously a popular venture, given the exponential surge in social media usage. This cutthroat industry offers a tons of growth and income-generating prospects.
Partner with Apptunix, a leading social media app development company – you can kickstart your Snapchat-like app development process with professional developers and designers.
We offer top-notch, cutting-edge solutions with no hidden development cost. Our services will level up your application and offer an exceptional user experience, keeping it ahead of the competition.
Q 1.How does Snapchat make money?
Although there are other advertising options on the site, such as Sponsored Lenses, Sponsored Geofilters, and Snap Ads, advertising remains Snapchat’s main source of revenue.
Additionally, it generates revenue from selling products on the Snap Store, accessories for Spectacles, and subscriptions to Snapchat Premium, which unlocks premium features. These various revenue sources contribute to Snapchat’s financial success.
Q 2.What are the crucial points to consider when building an app like Snapchat?
There are 3 points that you must consider when developing an app like Snapchat. Firstly, collaborate with experienced social media app developers for Snapchat-like app development.
Secondly, it is necessary to prioritize the MVP to test the market before moving on with fully-fledged software. Lastly, hire the right lawyer to minimize any potential loopholes for lawsuits or liability issues.
Q 3.What programming languages are used in the Snapchat application?
Snapchat uses programming languages such as Objective-C, Python, JavaScript, PHP, Cocoa Touch, and Android-SDK.
Q 4.How much does it cost to build an app like Snapchat?
The estimated cost to develop an app like Snapchat ranges from $25,000 to $80,000 or above, depending on the project’s complexity, features & functionalities, UX UI design, and other factors.
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