The mobile app market is set to hit $567.19 billion by 2030 with a solid growth rate. So, if you’ve got an Android app project in mind, it’s prime time to kick things off. But, naturally, your first thought is probably about the cost. Well, developing an Android app could set you back anywhere from $10,000 to a whopping $300,000 or even more, depending on what you’re after.
Now, why such a wide range? It all comes down to what you need. Factors like how complex your app will be, what features you want, and what design can push the cost up.
But don’t fret! We’ve got your back. This article dives into all these cost factors, helping you understand where your money’s going and how you can keep those costs in check while still getting the app you dream of. So, if you’re ready to make your mark in the Android app world, let’s discuss each point in detail.
Level of app complexity
The cost of developing an app is also determined by its complexity level. The variety of features an application possesses is one of the attributes that makes it seem “efficient” and amazing. So let’s examine a few key elements that contribute to the complexity of Android apps:
Model of deployment architecture
There are two forms of app backend development: custom and BaaS. You will be provided with a preset backend architecture in the Baas development, which limits your ability to modify it. Conversely, custom backend development offers an architecture tailored to a specific application that is created from the ground up.
Integration of third-party apps
To carry out particular tasks, your Android application will have to interact with other third-party apps. These features can range from signing up with Google, Gmail, or Facebook to interacting with a financial app for in-app purchases.
In-app purchase functionality
If you wanted to let users make payments from within your Android app, you would need to integrate your payment gateway. As a result, the app is no longer dependent on other payment methods.
Device’s Hardware accessibility
Your Android app will also need to access the device’s hardware functionality. For example, the application may require features such as GPS and Bluetooth. This will inevitably increase the app’s complexity and, consequently, the overall Android app development process.
Type and category of app
The cost of developing an Android app is determined by the type of app. Android applications can be divided into several categories, each with its own set of capabilities, demographics, security criteria, and so on. Although Android app creation benefits any industry, here is a list of the most popular Android app categories.
M-Commerce apps
One of the most prominent categories is M-Commerce apps. These applications, like Wayfair and Amazon, are incredibly popular due to their extensive features that support real-time operation, manage millions of users simultaneously, and provide robust security. The cost of developing an eCommerce or mCommerce app typically ranges from $20,000 to $150,000, depending on the complexity and features required. An example of innovation in this space is Moly, a Liquor Delivery App and Web Platform developed by NewAgeSysIT. Discover the detailed insights in the Moly Case study now!
Social Networking apps
Social networking apps are particularly noteworthy due to their ability to leverage hardware features like cameras, audio recorders, and other devices through third-party integrations. Designed to accommodate millions of users simultaneously, these apps are incredibly scalable and complex, which is why their development costs range from $20,000 to $300,000. The Showcase Talks platform, created by NewAgeSysIT, serves as one example.
Showcase Talks allows businesses to display their work, products, and even talents. Users can browse visually appealing presentations and get a realistic feel for what’s offered. The platform also lets them schedule consultations and coordinate tasks directly within the system. Essentially, Showcase Talks bridges the gap between businesses and customers, providing a marketplace tailored to customer needs. The project raised 1 million in funding and is currently serving thousands of users.
On-demand apps
On-demand apps are among the most versatile and widely used applications in today’s market. These apps cater to a variety of services, offering convenience and immediacy to users. Typically, even the most basic on-demand app includes three versions: one for users, one for service providers, and one for businesses. This multi-faceted approach ensures seamless interaction between all parties involved, enhancing the overall user experience and operational efficiency. Due to their complexity and the need for robust functionality, the cost of developing an on-demand app ranges from $20,000 to $400,000.
An exemplary on-demand application developed by NewAgeSysIT is CarUp, an innovative platform for auto repair services. CarUp delivers top-notch convenience and customer service by allowing users to request auto repairs directly from their smartphones. The app connects users with qualified service providers, ensuring quick and reliable service. CarUp exemplifies the potential of on-demand apps to revolutionize traditional service industries by prioritizing user convenience and satisfaction.
Hardware-dependent apps
Hardware-dependent apps are a crucial category, particularly in the era of the Internet of Things (IoT). These applications rely heavily on hardware components to perform essential functions such as data extraction, sensor integration, and sending commands to various devices. By leveraging the capabilities of physical hardware, these apps can provide sophisticated solutions that interact seamlessly with the environment and other devices.
The development of hardware-dependent apps is often more complex due to the need for precise hardware-software integration and real-time data processing. Consequently, the cost of developing these apps typically ranges from $30,000 to $300,000. The investment in developing these sophisticated apps is justified by their ability to offer real-time insights, control, and automation, making them indispensable in the modern technological landscape.
Android app animation and design
A significant element directly influencing the price of developing an Android mobile app is the animation and design process. There are many different kinds of designs and animations available, and the price to apply them can change based on the kind and quality of these designs.
Material Design-Â This style of design is utilized in Android app development to infuse the designs of mobile apps with a bold, yet simple, sense of creativity. On the other hand, flat design works better with iOS. Therefore, it is clear that the price of designing an Android app adds to the overall cost of developing an Android app.
Wireframing-Developers utilize wireframing to produce user experience elements and maps that are effective. Photoshop, Balsamiq, Marvel, and other specialized tools are employed.
Animation: Adding animation to particular parts of an application has become a common way to make it engaging and user-friendly. Animations are used extensively in social networking and gaming applications most of the time.
The cost of developing an Android mobile application varies based on the design requirements, with initial design research, including market research, competitor analysis, and market trend analysis, costing between $100-$350.
UX design, which involves creating rough sketches and wireframes, ranges from $2,000 to $8,000 depending on complexity. UI design, including mood boards and UI mockup samples, can range from $10,000 to $40,000.
Branding efforts, such as creating a brand identity and logos, are estimated between $5,000 and $20,000. Additionally, animations and illustrations for visualizing user interactions and on-screen content can cost between $1,000 and $20,000, depending on the level of animation required.
Android app development team
The person you select to develop the app will have a significant impact on the overall cost of developing an Android application. There are several options available: a skilled Android app development company, a local team, an internal development team, or an independent Android developer.
App deployment on Play Store
Everything builds to this key moment. An essential component of the total cost of developing an Android app is the Play Store submission process. But there are a few requirements that need to be taken into account. There are various Play Store rules that you have to go by to get any app selected. In addition, Google charges $25 one-time for the launch of any Android app.
Android app maintenance
After your Android app is successfully released on the Play Store, your development costs do not end there. There is much more ahead to do, i.e., App maintenance. Despite how important this phase is, the frontend and backend maintenance costs of Android apps eventually add up to the total cost of developing an Android app. Make sure you speak with your Android app creation team to receive an estimate on app maintenance, as the cost of maintenance varies greatly depending on the level of maintenance and updates.
How can NewAgeSysIT help you with Android app development?
NewAgeSysIT is a reputable Android app development firm that offers a comprehensive range of services to ensure the success of your app. With expertise in UI/UX design, software testing, multi-platform deployment, and strategic consultation, we guarantee scalability and high performance. Our user-centric design approach, rigorous quality assurance, and robust backend solutions ensure your app stands out in the competitive market. From prototyping to post-launch support, NewAgeSysIT is dedicated to delivering tailored, high-quality Android applications that meet your business needs and exceed user expectations. Visit our portfolios and case studies to learn more about our successful Android apps.