How Much Does It Cost To Develop An App Like Instagram?

Last updated on January 3rd, 2024

Instagram, the undeniable powerhouse of the social media landscape, stands head and shoulders above the rest as one of the most popular and influential platforms globally. With an astounding 1 billion active users as of 2021, its reach and impact are truly unparalleled. Its meteoric rise to success has not only revolutionized the way we connect and share but has also served as a transformative catalyst, inspiring a wave of entrepreneurs and businesses to venture into the realm of developing similar apps. The allure of capturing even a fraction of Instagram’s phenomenal success and unwavering popularity has ignited a fervor in the hearts of countless innovators, propelling them on a journey to create platforms that can leave their mark on the digital landscape.

What is Instagram?

In its simplest form, Instagram is a social media platform that enables users to share photos and videos with their followers. However, this oversimplification barely scratches the surface of what Instagram truly represents – a lifestyle. From travel influencers jet-setting across the globe to fashion icons defining trends for millions, Instagram has become an integral part of modern-day life. Its appeal lies in its ability to connect people with visually captivating content, allowing them to express their individuality, creativity, and ideals. But the question remains – what does it take to develop an app like Instagram?

Key Information of Instagram

Before diving into the cost of developing an app like Instagram, it is important to understand some key information about the platform itself. These insights will provide a better understanding of the features and functionalities that contribute to its success.

• Instagram was launched in 2010 and acquired by Facebook in 2012 for $1 billion.
• As of October 2021, there are over 1 billion monthly active users on Instagram.
• Over 500 million people use Instagram Stories daily.
• The most followed celebrity on Instagram is currently Cristiano Ronaldo with over 339 million followers.

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Attracting Features of trending networking apps like Instagram

• Create and Edit Profile – Users can create a profile with a unique username, bio, and profile picture. They can also edit their profiles to add more information about themselves.
• Create and Share Videos – Instagram allows users to create and share short videos up to 60 seconds in length. These videos can also be edited with filters, music, and other effects.
• Share Album – Users can share multiple photos and videos in one post, creating an album-like layout on their profile.
• Explore or Search Feature – Users can discover new content and accounts through the explore page or by searching for specific hashtags, locations, or accounts.
• Crazy Reels – Reels is a feature on Instagram that allows users to create short, entertaining videos similar to TikTok.
• Instagram Direct – Users can message and connect with other users through Instagram Direct, a private messaging feature.
• Instagram Stories -Users can effortlessly share their favorite moments with photos and videos on their stories, creating a captivating visual narrative that disappears after 24 hours. This dynamic feature also encompasses interactive elements like thought-provoking polls, engaging quizzes, intriguing questions, and stunning filters that enhance the overall visual experience. It fosters a deeper level of engagement and connection with their audience, allowing them to express their creativity and share their stories in a more immersive and personalized way.
• For Advertisements – Instagram offers businesses and brands a powerful advertising platform to effectively reach and engage their target audience, ultimately driving sales and enhancing brand awareness. With a variety of ad formats available, including visually stunning photo ads, captivating video ads, interactive carousel ads featuring multiple photos in one ad, engaging stories ads seamlessly integrated between users’ stories, and strategic sponsored posts strategically placed on the explore page, businesses have a range of options to effectively communicate their message and connect with their audience on Instagram. This comprehensive suite of ad formats empowers businesses to create impactful and memorable advertising campaigns that resonate with their target audience and deliver measurable results.

• Instagram Shop – Instagram recently introduced its newest feature, the Instagram Shop, which allows brands to create a virtual storefront within the app. This enables users to browse and purchase products directly from their favorite brands without having to leave the app. With the rise of online shopping and e-commerce, this feature provides businesses with an additional avenue to showcase their products and drive sales on a popular platform with a large, engaged user base.
• Instagram Checkout – Building on the success of Instagram Shop, the platform also rolled out its newest feature, Instagram Checkout. This allows users to complete their purchases directly within the app, making the shopping experience more seamless and convenient. With this feature, businesses can further enhance their e-commerce strategy and capitalize on the increasing trend of mobile shopping.
• Facebook Pay – With the integration of Facebook Pay on Instagram, businesses can now easily set up and receive payments for their products or services. This streamlined payment process eliminates the need for multiple apps or platforms, making it easier for businesses to manage transactions and finances.
• Geo-location – Instagram also offers businesses the ability to target their ads based on location. This allows them to reach audiences in specific geographic areas, making it easier to promote products or services that are only available in certain regions. This targeted advertising feature can help businesses save money by not showing ads to users who would not be able to purchase their products.

What Technologies Play a Vital Role in Developing Instagram-like Trending Social Media Apps?

When it comes to developing an app like Instagram, there are several technologies that play a vital role in creating the desired features and functionalities. Let’s take a look at some of these key technologies:

Programming Languages

• JavaScript
• Python
• Swift
• Kotlin
• HTML/CSS

DevOps For Android and iOS

• Xcode
• Android Studio
• Github/GitLab/Bitbucket

Framework and Libraries

• Bootstrap
• React Native
• Django
• Ruby on Rails
• AngularJS

Why A Social Networking App Like Instagram Development Is Profitable?

With over one billion active monthly users, Instagram has firmly established itself as a powerhouse platform for businesses across diverse industries. It provides a remarkable opportunity to showcase products, engage with customers, and broaden one’s reach to a wider audience. The immense popularity and high user engagement on Instagram have not only fueled its success but have also created a thriving market for businesses and developers looking to create similar apps.

By carefully crafting an app that captures the essence of Instagram’s achievement while incorporating unique features and value propositions, businesses and developers can unlock the vast potential and profitability that this vibrant social media platform offers. This presents an exciting avenue for innovation and growth, as businesses can leverage the established user base and engagement patterns to drive their own success.

In this dynamic landscape, the possibilities for creating a compelling app experience that resonates with users and adds value to their lives are virtually limitless. Businesses and developers have the opportunity to delve deeper, exploring new ways to enhance user engagement and create personalized experiences. Whether it’s through advanced algorithms that curate content tailored to individual preferences or innovative tools that foster community interaction, the potential for elevating the Instagram experience is boundless.

Moreover, the continuous evolution of technology and social media platforms opens up new horizons for businesses to expand their reach and connect with audiences on a global scale. With Instagram at the forefront of this digital revolution, businesses can tap into its wide range of features, such as Stories, IGTV, and shoppable posts, to captivate and convert users into loyal customers. The ability to seamlessly integrate with other platforms and leverage the power of influencers further amplifies the impact of businesses on Instagram.

In summary, Instagram’s influence in the business landscape is undeniable. Its massive user base, engagement levels, and innovative features have created a booming market for businesses and developers. By embracing the spirit of innovation and leveraging the platform’s capabilities, businesses can unlock new opportunities for growth, expansion, and success in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

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The Development cost of the best mobile app like Instagram 

As with any app development project, the cost of creating an app like Instagram can vary greatly depending on various factors. However, there are some key elements that businesses and developers should keep in mind when estimating the cost to develop an app like Instagram.

1. Platform and Technologies

The first factor to consider is which platforms you want your app to be available  on. Instagram is currently available on both iOS and Android, which means the app had to be developed separately for each platform. The cost of developing an app for iOS can range from $20,000 to $150,000, while Android apps can cost anywhere between $25,000 to $170,000.

Additionally, you need to consider the technologies used for the app. Instagram is built using React Native, a popular cross-platform development framework which offers cost-saving benefits by allowing developers to build one codebase for both iOS and Android platforms.

2. Design and User Experience

UI/UX design plays a crucial role in the success of an app like Instagram. The user interface should be visually appealing, intuitive, and easy to navigate. Designing an app like Instagram can cost between $8000- $10,000, and the cost may increase based on additional features and animations.

3. Features and Functionality

Features are a significant driver of app development costs. An app like Instagram offers various features such as photo editing tools, filters, direct messaging, stories, hashtags, and more. The cost of adding these features can range from $15,000 to $25,000 each. Additionally, functions like account creation, login, push notifications, and search also contribute to the overall cost.

4. Backend Development

A robust backend is essential for an app like Instagram as it handles the data storage, security, and server-side operations. The backend development cost can vary between $25,000 to $50,000 depending on the complexity of the app and the features required.

5. Testing and Maintenance

Testing is a crucial aspect of app development as it ensures that the app functions smoothly without any bugs or glitches. The cost for testing an app like Instagram can range from $10,000- $15,000. Additionally, the maintenance cost for regular updates and bug fixes can add up to $5000-$10,000 per year.

Benefits of using a social app like Instagram

Apart from the cost, there are several benefits to developing an app like Instagram. One of the main advantages is the potential for revenue generation through advertisements and sponsored posts. With over 1 billion monthly active users, Instagram has a vast user base, making it an attractive platform for businesses to advertise on. Additionally, social media apps have become an essential part of people’s daily lives, providing a vast market for potential users. Other benefits include increased brand visibility, improved customer engagement, and the ability to connect with a global audience.

• Revenue Generation: The potential for income through sponsored posts and advertisements is one of the greatest advantages of an app like Instagram. It serves as an attractive platform for businesses to promote their products due to its vast user base, with over 1 billion active monthly users.

• Increased Brand Visibility: Social media apps like Instagram allow businesses to increase their brand visibility significantly. By regularly posting engaging content, businesses can reach a larger audience and boost their brand image.

• Improved Customer Engagement: Instagram provides a platform for businesses to interact directly with their customers. Through comments, likes, and direct messages, businesses can engage in conversation with their audience, enhancing customer relationship management.

• Global Reach: An app like Instagram allows businesses to connect with users worldwide. It provides a platform to reach a global audience, thus expanding the business’s potential market.

• Essential Daily Tool: With the integration of social media apps into our daily lives, an app like Instagram can cater to a vast market of potential users. This large user base presents numerous opportunities for businesses to grow and thrive.

Must Read: Creating a Social Media App: Comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide

How can iTechnolabs help you to build an app like Instagram?

iTechnolabs is a highly regarded software development company known for its exceptional expertise in creating cutting-edge mobile applications. With a track record of success and years of experience in the field, their dedicated team of professionals is committed to providing top-notch solutions tailored to your unique requirements and budget. Whether you’re looking to develop an app like Instagram or any other innovative concept, iTechnolabs will work closely with you to transform your vision into a reality, ensuring a seamless user experience and optimal functionality. With their comprehensive suite of services and unwavering commitment to excellence, iTechnolabs is your go-to partner for all your mobile app development needs.

• Expert Team: iTechnolabs has a team of highly skilled developers who are well-versed in developing social media apps like Instagram. They have the knowledge and experience to create a high-quality app that fulfills all your needs.

• Cost-effective Solutions: iTechnolabs offers cost-effective solutions for developing mobile apps, including an app like Instagram. They understand the budget constraints of businesses and provide customized solutions that fit their budget.

• Latest Technologies: The team at iTechnolabs stays updated with the latest technologies and trends in the mobile app development industry. They incorporate these technologies into their projects, ensuring that your app is modern, efficient, and user-friendly.

• Flexible Approach: iTechnolabs follows a flexible approach to meet their clients’ specific needs. They work closely with businesses to understand their requirements and provide customized solutions accordingly. This approach helps in creating an app that is tailored to your business needs.

• Quality Assurance: iTechnolabs follows a strict quality assurance process to ensure that the app they develop meets industry standards and exceeds client expectations. From designing to deployment, their team ensures that every aspect of the app is thoroughly tested and bug-free.

Are you looking for a mobile app development services provider?

The process of app development for an app like Instagram by iTechnolabs is meticulously planned and executed to achieve the best results. It begins with Idea Validation, where the team works with the client to understand the business requirements and validate the feasibility of the app concept. This is followed by the Designing Phase, where the UI/UX designers create an interactive and user-friendly design for the app, keeping in mind the targeted user base.

Next is the Development Phase where the actual coding of the app takes place. The developers use the latest technologies to create a robust and efficient app. This phase also involves integrating essential features similar to Instagram, such as photo-sharing, filters, stories, and direct messaging.

Once the app is developed, it undergoes rigorous Quality Assurance Testing to ensure it’s bug-free and works seamlessly. Any identified bugs or issues are fixed at this stage.

The development process at iTechnolabs for an app like Instagram can be broken down into the following steps:

• Idea Validation: This crucial initial stage involves conducting an in-depth analysis of the client’s business requirements. A comprehensive feasibility check is performed to ensure that the app concept not only aligns with market needs but also meets the expectations of the target user group. Through thorough research and evaluation, potential challenges and opportunities are identified, paving the way for a successful app development journey.
• Designing Phase: In this phase, highly skilled UI/UX designers immerse themselves in crafting an interactive and visually appealing app design. With a primary focus on user-friendliness and engagement, the design team meticulously creates an interface that seamlessly navigates users through the app’s functionalities. By incorporating cutting-edge design trends and best practices, the ultimate goal is to deliver a captivating user experience that resonates with the target user base.
• Development Phase: Serving as the core stage of the app development process, the development phase brings the app concept to life through coding and implementation. Seasoned developers leverage the latest technologies and frameworks to build a robust and efficient app. Key features synonymous with popular platforms like Instagram, such as photo-sharing, filters, stories, and direct messaging, are meticulously integrated into the app’s architecture. Through rigorous testing and optimization, the development team ensures that the app meets high standards of performance, security, and scalability.
• Quality Assurance Testing: Once the development phase is complete, the app undergoes a rigorous quality assurance testing process. This meticulous evaluation aims to identify any potential bugs, glitches, or performance issues that may hinder the app’s functionality or user experience. By conducting comprehensive testing across various devices and operating systems, the QA team ensures that the app is bug-free and functions seamlessly. Any discovered issues are promptly addressed and resolved, guaranteeing a smooth and error-free user experience.

By following this comprehensive app development process, we strive to deliver a high-quality and user-centric application that exceeds client expectations and captivates users in the competitive digital landscape.

Conclusion : 

With the widespread adoption of social media platforms and the ever-increasing number of smartphone users, there is a significant demand for well-designed, user-friendly apps like Instagram. However, creating an app with similar features and capabilities requires substantial investment in terms of time, effort, and resources. The cost to develop an app like Instagram can vary significantly depending on various factors such as platform, features, complexity, developer rates, and location. To ensure a successful app development project, it is crucial to partner with an experienced and reputable app development company that can deliver high-quality results within the estimated budget and timeline.