Please note: the following app development costs are given to build a common understanding. As well, some app types may have similar functionality.
Remember: each and every project is unique, since no one has the same requirements, business context, technologies, and people involved.
1. The most basic app development cost
- App Cost: > ~$15,000
- Timeline: ~1 month
- Examples: Calculator, Camera, Clock, Local games, SMS apps, Local audio/ video players
Basic apps are simple apps with 5-6 screens and no backend or necessity for a network connection. These apps are not that common today. There should be a clear purpose to develop this type of app. These days, most apps need to operate with the Internet, as people consume lots of information online.
2. Data-driven app development cost
- App Cost: ~$15,000+
- Timeline: ~1-1.5 months
- Examples: Calendar, Weather, Stocks, Maps
Data-driven apps are defined as those that consume and process only specific information. For instance, Today Weather app uses third-party API information.
These apps are also not that common today, but they still exist. In most cases, these apps are either the extension of a larger software product or include additional features.
Other examples of apps in this category are calendar or stock apps. Note that these apps may need some back-end work, and so the cost to build an app increases.
3. Authentication app development cost
- App Cost: starting from ~$60,000+
- Timeline: ~3-6 months
- Examples: McDonald’s Loyalty App, Google Drive
Authentication apps need a user to log in to provide full app functionality. The app development cost for this type increases since there are many subordinate features. Here, the user has a personal account and interacts with the data, which is synchronized among devices. This also requires a corresponding admin panel for content and user management.
It is advisable to employ registration via social networks (Facebook, Twitter, etc). This is a one-step procedure that is quicker to implement. Cavanaugh Design Studio has vast experience in developing apps with login functionality.
