The React Native mobile app development framework does not need any introduction. The cross-platform framework helps in saving time, development costs, and resources. Baidu Mobile, SoundCloud, Tencent QQ, Walmart, Tesla, Airbnb, UberEATS, and Skype use this framework. React Native (RN) helps firms with a tight budget to build apps and maintain a presence on mobile devices. Here are 9 factors that can influence development costs with React Native:
1. Category
Lifestyle, social media, utility, games and entertainment, productivity, news, and information are some of the most popular app categories. Every category needs a different set of functionalities, features, and layers of security. So, the app category is the first and the most significant factor to consider when it comes to development.
2. Developer’s experience and location
You can find developers with several years of experience in the market. If you wish to hire an engineer with considerable expertise in developing apps for a specific domain, you should be willing to pay anywhere between $15 and $150 per hour. The price will be lower if you involve medium or lesser experienced developers in the project. You can find Indian React Native developers willing to work for as low as $15 per hour. Still, the overall cost can go up to $20,000 or above.
You can get your app completed at a considerably lower cost without compromising on high-standards if you choose a custom mobile app development firm based in India. Such firms have highly-experienced developers working as part of their teams and can afford to offer services at lower rates due to currency and wage-related factors.
3. Design requirements for the App
The App’s design plays a crucial role in the overall user engagement. A design that rightly highlights the app’s functionalities can easily retain user-attention and ensure high usability. Thankfully, providing a smooth transition from one screen to another does not cost a fortune with React Native. The design needs to be created just once, and it works seamlessly on both Android and iOS platforms. Any design changes or addition of premium widgets at a later stage may result in further costs.
4. App complexity and integration with various systems
A stand-alone mobile application costs less; while on the other hand, apps that integrate with other enterprise systems can be expensive. Integration requires additional modifications, third-party APIs, and extensions. These elements result in cost escalation.
A feature rich-admin panel, in-app purchase options, third-party system integration, and legacy system integration are factors that add a layer of complexity in the designing stage. The complexity factor also influences the development cost.
5. Integration with the device’s features
In some cases, the app needs to work with device features like cameras, microphones, GPS, Bluetooth, phone infrared, etc. Plus, apps may also need to work with additional hardware, including IoT and smart devices. The cost for such integration further escalates development charges.
6. Login and authorization
Some apps allow users to access features without registration, login, or authorization, which keeps development costs towards the lower spectrum. On the other hand, applications that require users to login using a phone number or social login can be a bit more expensive. The cost moves upward as such authentication may require role-based checks that developers need to set. But remember, if the app displays sensitive data, it is always advisable to have a secure login option for the application.
7. App distribution
Some developers also assist their clients in submitting their application to various stores for distribution. Deploying the app on stores like Google Play and Apple App Store can cost around $100. Device manufacturers have their own distribution channels and submission charges. Besides these three options, the app also needs to be present on other distribution platforms, resulting in additional costs. Plus, there are additional charges for getting security and standards certification. These fees increase the overall development cost of the app.
8. Add-ons
Features like in-app purchases and integration with social media channels require the use of add-ons in the application. Buttons for sharing content on social media or making a call to customer service via the app can help drive user-engagement and ease. These little add-ons do trigger the development cost. However, these are crucial for customer-centric platforms.
9. Support and maintenance
The story does not end with development and distribution. The application needs maintenance and regular support for up-gradation. Security patches, bug fixes need to be issued from time to time. Such maintenance and support costs should also be considered as part and parcel of the package.
Select a mobile app development solutions provider who has positive online reviews and an excellent online presence. It is advisable to read case studies, the number of industries served, and their technical exposure. Make sure the team of developers keeps clients involved in every step while creating a minimum viable product.
