Key Drivers of Mobile App Development Costs in 2024

As we’ve observed from our extensive experience, the cost of mobile development services is a critical concern and often a focal point in negotiations. You’ve likely noticed that the pricing range for custom mobile solutions can vary greatly and may be hard to estimate on your own. In this article, we’ll outline the key factors that drive development costs and introduce Innowise’s approach to cost optimization. 

Development Approach

Right from the start, product owners are faced with a pivotal decision: cross-platform or native development. This choice is usually driven by the business model, as some clients focus solely on iOS or Android. However, in most cases, business owners and startups aim to create apps that work across both platforms.

Native development utilizes platform-specific technologies like Java, Kotlin, Objective-C, and Swift. In contrast, cross-platform applications are built using frameworks like Flutter, React Native, Xamarin, and .Net MAUI.

Cross-platform development can reduce engineering costs by 20-40% compared to native development in many instances.

Project Complexity

The more complex the software, the more time engineers will need to develop it, naturally increasing its cost. The complexity of custom software development is determined by the features, number, and types of functionalities it offers.

The cost is also impacted by how compatible the app is with modern gadgets such as smartwatches, glasses, bracelets, and other wearable devices that have become part of everyday life.

Moreover, integrating advanced technologies like WebRTC, AR/VR/MR, blockchain, machine learning, and IoT can significantly influence costs. Even the app’s monetization model, such as in-app purchases or freemium options, can extend the project’s duration and budget. For example, in-app subscriptions require engineers to plan and implement logic for updates, cancellations, and payment methods.

Integrations

Various integrations can influence mobile app development costs, including:

Third-party integrations, such as payment services, insurance systems, or mapping tools.

Internal system integrations, like CMS, CRM, ERP, inventory management, and HRM systems.

Advanced technology integration, including blockchain, AR/VR/MR, AI, and more.

Project Team

The composition and expertise of the project team play a crucial role in development. Each mobile app project typically requires a range of skilled professionals, including mobile developers, QA engineers, project managers, business analysts, UI/UX designers, and architects.

A tight timeline is another significant factor. If time is limited, expanding the development team may be necessary, but this will also increase the time required for code reviews, the CI/CD process, and communication.

Estimation and Cost Optimization

At Innowise, we engage with potential clients on a win-win basis. We provide multiple options for project implementation, offer various cooperation models and present corresponding pricing proposals. This approach ensures business owners have several project roadmaps, with all details explained and various cost estimates available for consideration.

Outsourcing Development

Innowise offers outsourced IT development services with several cooperation models, such as turnkey development, dedicated teams, and staff augmentation. Outsourcing a mobile app development project can lead to significant cost savings—typically between 10-40% or more. These savings stem from key advantages, including access to extensive expertise, time savings, flexibility, and reduced risk. Furthermore, the hourly rates of IT professionals in Central Europe are often more cost-effective compared to developer salaries in the U.S.

Agile Development

Agile methodologies make it easier to manage large- and medium-scale projects by breaking them down into smaller tasks, phases, and modules. By adopting Agile practices, Innowise’s team can ensure faster development, increased transparency, greater flexibility, and effective risk management. This approach helps control the project’s budget, product quality, and team performance, positively impacting the final cost of the mobile application.

MVP Development

A Minimum Viable Product (MVP) is a prototype of a mobile app with the most essential features. Launching an MVP can help reduce development costs in several ways. For example, an MVP is an excellent tool to capture early investor interest and secure funding for continued development. From Innowise’s experience, an early MVP can help identify key issues and fix them, as well as attract a target audience and gather valuable feedback.

Conclusion

The main factors that determine mobile app development costs include the development approach (cross-platform or native), project complexity, required integrations, and the project team. By considering these aspects, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of how to effectively develop and launch your mobile app. If you need a precise estimate for your mobile app project, feel free to contact the Innowise team.