How to Build Apps Similar to Snapchat?

Snapchat is a popular social media app that allows users to share photos and videos with friends and followers? Apps similar to Snapchat have a unique feature of disappearing messages, making them more private and secure than other social media platforms.

With the growing demand for social media apps and apps similar to Snapchat, many businesses and entrepreneurs are looking to develop an app alternative to Snapchat. 

Did you know that in 2022, Snapchat had 363 million daily users?

A popular app like Snapchat is definitely a hoot! However, the cost of developing apps similar to Snapchat can vary greatly based on several factors. In this blog, we will discuss the various factors that impact the cost of developing apps similar to Snapchat.

An app like Snapchat can be a great idea for your company! You can always create apps similar to Snapchat and some new features but before that, consider looking at some stats mentioned below: 

From the beginning, Snapchat owners have always believed in providing several ways of generating revenue. In 2022 Snapchat revenue amounted to about $4.1 billion.

Even as new messaging apps and social media platforms emerge, plain old Snapchat remains very popular. Snapchat had approximately 332 million daily active users globally as of the first quarter of 2022. This is a rise from 306 million in the third quarter of 2021.

When compared to the other top social media platforms, Snapchat places 12th in terms of active users. However, it is ranked better than platforms such as Pinterest and even Twitter.

According to Statista, the number of video viewers in the United States is expected to hit 248.9 million by the end of 2022. Nine out of ten viewers said they wanted to see more videos from brands and businesses, and the average person is expected to spend 100 minutes per day viewing online videos by 2022.

In today’s fast-paced world, social media platforms have become a way of life. With their ability to connect people and provide instant gratification, they have changed the way people interact with each other.

Steps to Build Apps Similar to Snapchat

Having more than 300 million monthly active users, apps similar to Snapchat allow users to send photos and short videos that disappear after being viewed.

It also has filters, lenses, and other features that make it a fun and entertaining app to use. If you’re interested in developing apps similar to Snapchat, there are some key steps that you need to take:

Research Your Target Market

Before you start developing your app, it’s essential to research your target market. Who is your app for? What do they want from apps similar to Snapchat? Understanding your audience will help you create an app that meets their needs and expectations.

Snapchat’s primary audience is millennials and Gen Z. They’re looking for an app that allows them to share their experiences with their friends in a fun and engaging way. They also value privacy, which is why Snapchat’s disappearing messages feature is so popular.

Read More: How to Increase App Engagement and User Retention

Determine Your App’s Features

Once you’ve identified your target market, it’s time to determine the feature of apps similar to Snapchat. Some of Snapchat’s most popular features include:

Disappearing messages: This feature allows users to send photos and videos that disappear after being viewed.

Filters and lenses: Snapchat’s filters and lenses allow users to add fun and creative effects to their photos and videos.

Stories: Snapchat’s Stories feature allows users to create a collection of photos and videos that are available for 24 hours.

Chat: Users can chat with each other in real-time using Snapchat’s chat feature.

Discover: Snapchat’s Discover feature allows users to view curated content from publishers and brands.

Before we get further into how to develop apps that are like Snapchat, let’s understand which platform and programming language to choose.

Choose a Platform and Programming Language

When developing apps similar to Snapchat, you have several options when it comes to platforms and programming languages. The most popular platforms for mobile app development are iOS and Android.

iOS uses Objective-C or Swift programming language, while Android uses Java or Kotlin. It’s important when it comes to how to make apps similar to Snapchat to choose a programming language and platform that you’re sure of as this will make the development process much smoother.

Read More: How Much Does It Cost to Build a Mobile App?

Apps Similar to Snapchat – Platform and Technology

The first factor that impacts the cost of developing apps similar to Snapchat is the platform and technology used for the app.

Snapchat is available on both iOS and Android platforms, and the cost of development for each platform can vary significantly.

To develop apps that are like Snapchat, developing an app for iOS is generally more expensive than developing an app for Android due to the strict guidelines and requirements of the App Store. 

Additionally, the technology used for developing apps similar to Snapchat also impacts the cost. For instance, if the app is built using native code, it will be more expensive than using cross-platform technology.

Design for Apps Similar to Snapchat

Apps that are like Snapchat are designed in a very unique way. Design is another factor that affects the cost of development. Snapchat has a unique design that is both visually appealing and user-friendly.

Creating a design for apps similar to Snapchat requires skilled designers and developers who can understand the user interface and user experience.

The cost of design can vary based on the complexity of the design and the number of design iterations required.

Features of Apps Similar to Snapchat

The features of an app similar to Snapchat are the most significant factor that impacts the cost of development. Snapchat has several unique features, such as disappearing messages, filters, and lenses.

Developing these features requires skilled developers who can understand the technology and algorithms required. 

When it comes to developing an alternative to Snapchat, one must also understand the cost of development also increases based on the number of features required.

If the app requires more features, the development cost will be higher.

Backend Development of Apps Similar to Snapchat

The backend development of apps similar to Snapchat is another factor that affects the cost of development. The backend is part of an app similar to Snapchat and manages the data and communication between the app and the server.

Developing a robust backend requires skilled developers who can manage the data and ensure the app is scalable and reliable. Additionally, the cost of backend development also depends on the hosting and infrastructure required.

Testing and Maintenance of Apps Similar to Snapchat

Testing and maintenance are essential aspects of app development. Testing ensures that the app is functioning correctly and free of bugs and errors.

Maintenance ensures that apps similar to Snapchat remain up-to-date with the latest technologies and features. The cost of testing and maintenance can vary based on the complexity of the app and the number of updates required.

Location of the Development Team

The location of the development team is another factor that affects the cost of development. The cost of development can vary based on the location of the development team.

For instance, if the development team is located in a developed country like the United States, the cost of development will be higher compared to a developing country like India.

This is because the cost of living and labor is significantly lower in developing countries.

Read More: How to Hire a Development Team for Mobile App Development Project

Hire The Best App Developers to Develop Apps Similar to Snapchat

In conclusion, the cost of developing an app like Snapchat can vary significantly based on several factors.

The platform and technology used, design, features, backend development, testing and maintenance, and location of the development team all impact the cost of development.

Developing apps similar to Snapchat requires skilled developers who can understand the user interface and user experience, and the technology required to build the app. 

It is essential to work with a reputable development team to ensure the app is of high quality and meets the requirements of the target audience.

We at Resourcifi are committed to creating innovative digital solutions as a top-rated mobile app development company.

We can help you develop an alternative to Snapchat with the right set of expertise and approach, we can help you build an app like Snapchat that meets the profitability roadmap of an app similar to Snapchat. 

Contact us now to get a cost estimate on developing an app similar to Snapchat and build your own apps similar to Snapchat right away!

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to develop an app like Snapchat?


Developing an app like Snapchat can be a complex process and the cost can vary widely depending on various factors such as the app’s features, platform, location, and development team’s expertise.

 

To give you a rough estimate, the development cost of a Snapchat-like app can range from $50,000 to $500,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the project.

 

This cost includes the development team’s fees, server and infrastructure costs, software and hardware costs, testing and quality assurance, and other miscellaneous expenses.

 

However, it’s essential to note that the development cost is just one aspect of building an app. There are additional costs involved in marketing, maintenance, and ongoing development.

Ultimately, the cost of developing an app like Snapchat will depend on your specific requirements and the development team you choose to work with.

Which programming language is used in Snapchat app?

Snapchat’s mobile app is developed using a combination of programming languages, including Java, Kotlin, Objective-C, and Swift. Java and Kotlin are primarily used for developing the Android version of the app, while Objective-C and Swift are used for the iOS version.

Snapchat also uses other programming languages for backend development and infrastructure, including Python, Go, and Node.js.

The choice of programming languages and technologies used in Snapchat’s app may vary based on the specific features and functionalities of the app.

How is Snapchat app made?

Snapchat was created by Evan Spiegel, Bobby Murphy, and Reggie Brown, former students at Stanford University. It is known for representing a mobile-first direction for social media and places significant emphasis on users interacting with virtual stickers and augmented reality objects. To create an app like Snapchat, you must hire the best app developers to build apps similar to Snapchat.