How Long Does It Take to Build an iOS and Android App? - Full Description
Building an iOS or Android app is a complex process that involves multiple stages, from planning and design to development, testing, and launch.
Created by: Adeshola Bello /
Vetted by:
Otse Amorighoye
Have you ever wondered how long it takes to build a mobile app? Whether you're an entrepreneur with a brilliant idea or a business leader looking to expand your digital presence, understanding the timeline for app development is crucial. The mobile app industry is booming, with over 3.5 million apps on the Google Play Store and 2.2 million on the Apple App Store. But the question remains, how long does it take to bring an idea to life on these platforms? The time required to develop an app varies widely depending on the complexity, features, and the platforms involved—iOS and Android. For example, a simple app with basic features might take just a few weeks, while a more complex app with advanced functionalities can take several months or even longer. But that's not all—factors like design, testing, and the team's expertise can also significantly impact the timeline. Imagine having a clear roadmap that guides you through the app development process, helping you understand every phase and how long each one takes. This knowledge can empower you to make informed decisions, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure that your app launches on time and within budget. At Amorserv, we specialize in IT talent acquisition, providing you with the best developers who can bring your app to life efficiently and effectively. If you're ready to turn your idea into a successful app, keep reading to discover the full breakdown of how long it takes to build an iOS and Android app and how Amorserv can help you achieve your goals. Planning is the foundation of any successful app development project. Without a well-thought-out plan, the process can become chaotic, leading to delays and increased costs. The planning phase involves defining the app's purpose, target audience, key features, and overall design. This phase can take anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks depending on the complexity of the app. Before development begins, it's essential to conduct market research to understand the competition, user needs, and industry trends. This step can take about 1 to 2 weeks. Defining the project's scope, setting goals, and outlining technical requirements is a critical step that can take another 1 to 2 weeks. Once the planning phase is complete, the next step is designing the app. The design phase is crucial because it determines how users will interact with the app and how it will look. This phase typically takes 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the complexity of the app. Creating wireframes and prototypes helps visualize the app's layout and flow. This step can take 1 to 2 weeks. The design team then creates the app's visual elements, including buttons, icons, and color schemes, ensuring that the app is both aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly. This process usually takes 3 to 6 weeks. The development phase is where the actual coding happens. This is often the most time-consuming part of the app development process, with timelines varying widely based on the app's complexity, features, and the number of platforms being developed for ( iOS, Android, or both). The backend is the server-side part of the app that handles data storage, user authentication, and other critical functions. Backend development typically takes: Simple App: 2 to 4 weeks Medium App: 4 to 6 weeks Complex App: 6 to 10 weeks The frontend is the client-side part of the app that users interact with. Frontend development can take: Simple App: 3 to 5 weeks Medium App: 5 to 8 weeks Complex App: 8 to 12 weeks Many apps rely on third-party APIs for additional functionalities, such as payment gateways, social media integration, or location services. Integrating these APIs can add: Simple App: 1 to 2 weeks Medium App: 2 to 3 weeks Complex App: 3 to 4 weeks Once the app is developed, it must undergo rigorous testing to ensure it functions correctly, is free of bugs, and provides a seamless user experience. Testing is a critical phase that can take: Simple App: 2 to 4 weeks Medium App: 4 to 6 weeks Complex App: 6 to 8 weeks This involves testing individual components of the app to ensure they work as intended. Unit testing usually takes: Simple App: 1 week Medium App: 1 to 2 weeks Complex App: 2 to 3 weeks This step ensures that different components of the app work together seamlessly. Integration testing can take: Simple App: 1 week Medium App: 1 to 2 weeks Complex App: 2 to 3 weeks UAT involves real users testing the app to identify any usability issues. This process can take: Simple App: 1 week Medium App: 1 to 2 weeks Complex App: 2 weeks Once the app passes all tests, it's ready for launch. However, the launch phase involves more than just submitting the app to the App Store or Google Play. It includes marketing, monitoring performance, and making necessary updates. The launch phase can take about 2 to 4 weeks. Submitting the app to the App Store or Google Play can take about 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the platform's review process. To ensure your app reaches its target audience, you need to plan a marketing strategy that may include social media promotion, influencer marketing, and paid ads. This step can take another 1 to 2 weeks. After launch, you'll likely need to release updates based on user feedback. The timeline for post-launch updates varies depending on the issues addressed. Here’s a summary of the timelines based on the app's complexity: Planning: 2 to 3 weeks Designing: 3 to 4 weeks Development: 6 to 9 weeks Testing: 2 to 4 weeks Launch: 2 weeks Total Time:3 to 4 months Planning: 3 to 4 weeks Designing: 4 to 6 weeks Development: 9 to 14 weeks Testing: 4 to 6 weeks Launch: 2 to 3 weeks Total Time:5 to 7 months Planning: 4 to 6 weeks Designing: 6 to 8 weeks Development: 16 to 26 weeks Testing: 6 to 8 weeks Launch: 2 to 4 weeks Total Time:8 to 12 months The more features your app has, the longer it will take to develop. For example, a simple app with basic functionalities like user login, content display, and social sharing can be built in 3 to 4 months. On the other hand, a complex app with advanced features like real-time messaging,video streaming, and location-based services can take 8 to 12 months or more. Developing an app for both iOS and Android simultaneously takes longer than building for a single platform. If you're building an app for just one platform, it may take 3 to 6 months. However, if you're developing for both iOS and Android, the timeline could extend to 6 to 12 months or more. The size and expertise of your development team also play a significant role in determining how long it takes to build an app. A larger team with specialized skills can complete the project faster than a smaller, less experienced team. For example, a team of 5 to 10 developers might complete a complex app in 6 to 9 months, while a smaller team might take 9 to 12 months or longer. Using an iterative development approach, such as Agile, can help streamline the development process and reduce the timeline. Agile allows for continuous testing and feedback, enabling the team to make adjustments as they go. This approach can cut down the development time by 10% to 20% compared to traditional methods. The geographic location of your development team can also impact the timeline. Teams in regions with a higher cost of living, like North America or Western Europe, may work faster but at a higher cost. On the other hand, teams in regions like Africa or Southeast Asia may offer a more cost-effective solution, but the timeline could be slightly longer due to time zone differences and communication challenges. At Amorserv, we understand the importance of launching your app on time and within budget. Our talent acquisition services connect you with the best developers in the industry, ensuring that your project is completed efficiently and effectively. Here's how we can help: We have a vast network of experienced iOS and Android developers who are experts in their fields. Whether you need a full development team or just a few specialists, we've got you covered. Our developers follow the best practices in Agile development, ensuring that your project progresses smoothly and meets all deadlines. We offer competitive rates for our services, helping you get the best value for your investment without compromising on quality. From initial planning to post-launch updates, we provide comprehensive support throughout the entire app development process. A simple app with basic features typically takes 3 to 4 months to develop, including planning, design, development, and testing. Factors like scope creep, lack of clear requirements, and frequent changes in design or features can delay the development process. The development timeline for iOS and Android is generally similar. However, iOS apps may require more time forApp Store approval. You can speed up the process by having a clear plan, using an Agile methodology, and hiring a skilled development team like the one at Amorserv. The cost to develop an app can vary widely depending on the complexity and platform but generally ranges from $30,000 to $200,000. Building an iOS or Android app is a complex process that involves multiple stages, from planning and design to development, testing, and launch. The timeline for this process can range from a few months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the app, the number of platforms, and the expertise of the development team. Understanding these factors and planning accordingly can help you manage your project more effectively and ensure a successful launch. At Amorserv, we pride ourselves on providing top-tier talent acquisition services that connect you with the best developers in the industry. Whether you're looking to build a simple app or a complex, feature-rich platform, our experienced team can help you navigate the development process and bring your vision to life. Expert Developers: Our network of developers has extensive experience in both iOS and Android development, ensuring that your app is built with the latest technologies and best practices. Timely Delivery: We understand the importance of deadlines. Our streamlined processes and Agile methodologies help ensure that your app is delivered on time, every time. Comprehensive Support: From the initial concept to post-launch updates, Amorserv offers full-cycle support to ensure your app’s success in the market. Competitive Pricing: We offer cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality, making us the perfect partner for businesses of all sizes. Ready to Get Started? If you're ready to turn your app idea into reality, Amorserv is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our talent acquisition services and how we can assist you in building a high-quality iOS or Android app within your desired timeline. Don’t let time be a barrier to your success—let Amorserv be your partner in bringing your app to market efficiently and effectively. Contact Amorserv Today! Website: www.amorserv.com Let’s build something amazing together!Understanding the App Development Timeline
The Importance of Planning
Market Research
Project Scope and Requirements
Designing the User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI)
Wireframing and Prototyping
Designing UI/UX
Development Phase: Turning Designs into Reality
Backend Development
Frontend Development
Integrating APIs
Testing and Quality Assurance
Unit Testing
Integration Testing
User Acceptance Testing (UAT)
Launch and Post-Launch Activities
App Store Submission
Marketing and Promotion
Post-Launch Updates
Timeline Breakdown by App Complexity
Simple App
Medium App
Complex App
Factors That Influence the App Development Timeline
Complexity of Features
Number of Platforms
Development Team Size and Expertise
Iterative Development and Agile Methodology
Geographic Location of the Development Team
How Amorserv Can Help You Build Your App Faster
Access to Top Talent
Streamlined Process
Cost-Effective Solutions
End-to-End Support
FAQs
How long does it take to build a simple app?
What factors can delay the app development process?
Is it faster to build an app for iOS or Android?
How can I speed up the app development process?
What is the average cost to develop an app?
Conclusion
Why Choose Amorserv?