How Long Does it Take to Make an App in 2025? [With Timeline]

Mobile app development has become a must for almost any business nowadays. They are aware that in this competitive era where most people spend a considerable amount of time on mobile, appearing before them in digital form is indispensable. And that’s where mobile application development comes in! People would be curious to know how long it takes to make an application.

The problem arises when they step forward to make an app from scratch. Since, for most of them, the whole app development ecosystem is alien. They don’t know the cost, they don’t know the technology. They don’t have the slightest idea about the timeline for a mobile app development project.

We have worked with various businesses for the last decade on app development projects. 8 out of 10 clients ask us about the project completion time and application development cost on their first call

Additionally, we have faced many intricacies in projects, which often come in the form of timeline problems and last-minute add-ons on the client side. These delayed last-minute moment changes make application building more complex and add to the time of the project, ultimately costing the clients.

Conversely, some chavents had always been clear on their requirements and had seen their final project delivery on time with optimum cost.
Considering all these factors, we have decided to write a comprehensive blog that describes the average time taken for app development and how to reduce the project’s timeframe without compromising application quality. This guide could be handy for any enterprise or startup that is not aware of the application development process and is on a path to digitizing its business.

Let’s Get started!

How Long Does it Take to Make an App?

We know that all apps are unique. There is no black-and-white answer to the question of how long it takes to create an app. Besides, the entire mobile app development process is divided into various parts based on the app’s requirements.

We have seen some apps completed in 4 weeks, while others took 12 to 18 weeks because of their complex features or any adversities. The time it takes to complete an app generally depends on the type of app and the experience of the app development company overseeing the project.

However, there is one thing you must remember (because you are investing your hard-earned money!): the cost of your mobile app is directly proportional to the time taken to develop an application.

So, meticulously inspect all stages of app development and the time it takes to launch an app. Here are the stages that take up the most time in developing a mobile application.

Time Taken In Mobile App Planning (2-3 weeks)

So, you have an app idea and have found the perfect development partner.

Now what?

You must take time to generate a brief about your mobile app idea. This will allow your developers to understand your customers, define business goals, and decide on requirements while designing the application. Creating a perfect brief for mobile app development takes some time, as you have to make your developer aware of your idea and how you envision your app.

What Should be Included in Brief?

• 1. What kind of application, its user base, and how you want it to be developed.
• 2. A complete project description in which you give an app idea in detail. Are you selling a product or service? Type of product or service. Everything should be discussed, whether you are promoting something or enhancing the target audience’s loyalty.
• 3. The description of the end-user- who they are, how they make decisions, and what their penchant is.
• 4. If you are familiar with platforms, then your preferred choice of platform. (iOS vs Android development or both). Native or Cross-platform. Native apps are more efficient and provide more usability. However, cross-platform is the best choice if you want to develop your mobile application as soon as possible. You could also ask your developer about it.
• 5. If you know about the backend, you can explain your preferred communication protocol, security preferences, data storage, offline mode, and more. Our developers can also help.
• 6. Give briefings about the design you want. What have you researched, and what kind of design do you want?

Mobile planning should be done by scrupulously exploring every detail you want. Mobile app planning takes around 2-3 weeks.

Note: Include your development partner in this process so they can better guide you in building a seamless mobile app.

Design Sprints (2-3 weeks)

So, how long does it take to design an application?

Once you give your app development project a green signal, your development company starts working on the design process. The timeline for building a mobile app design varies according to the design complexity.

If you have given designers an idea about the design and are clear, the process may take less time. Conversely, if designers have to work on designing from scratch and brainstorming the idea, the process may take several more weeks.

Before jumping onto the look and feel of the mobile application, designers usually create flow control and structures. This is the stage where they start wireframing. It helps them understand how a user will navigate through the app and how many screens a particular mobile app will have.

Most designers prefer pen and paper for making raw designs; however some believe in using tools like Sketch or Adobe XD. They take 3 to 4 days to complete the wireframing of the app.

These wireframes are sent to developers and clients for approval, and the design procedure moves one step further. Here, mockups and prototypes take place. Designers build icons, backgrounds, buttons, logos, and decide on the font for the app on this stage.

Collaboration with Developers

One of the most crucial things designers do while creating app design is a collaboration with the developers. The reason is to avoid development complexities. If the design built by the designers is not practically possible to develop on the development side, then it could add some extra time to redesign the screen. Not every operating system or device is compatible with the top design of the app.

Finally, designers hand over all the design work to the developers for further development.
Remember, app design time depends on the number of screens the app has, the number of devices (phone and tablet), and the complexity of the design.

So complete app designing takes 2-3 weeks.

Development (12-14 weeks)

One of the most time consuming yet important parts of the app development is the development stage. Flawless coding is the cornerstone of any app’s success. And to have that error-free code, a perfect planning and timeline should be discussed before hopping onto the coding.

For example, we work on an agile methodology for early and predictable delivery of the app. It saves time and allows us to change when it is necessary for a better flow.

Developers usually work on “Sprints” or “Milestones”. They divide the parts of the project as per their expertise and start their work.

The development part is divided into two kinds of developers Backend and Frontend. Let’s look at how the development process moves further and know how long it takes to develop an application.

• Backend Development

Data storage: Usually, development companies kickstart at the database level and work forward. They figure out as much of the application’s data that they think they need first.

User Management:At this stage, API development take place for User authentication and storing of their data. In a simple word, users’ registration process, authentication and password management is addressed here.

Server-side logic: It depicts the flows implemented by the application server and the process of handling the user’s request came from UI.

Data Integration: Developers execute processes and logic to extract, transform, and distribute data across one or more data locations from a variety of sources.

Push Notification: The work is done for sending notifications to the user’s device from the server. (i.e, notification sent while a product is added to your favorite store). Remember not every app requires this feature.

Versioning: It allows the back end developers to work on a new version without disturbing the existing one.

Now, while backend developers code and implement the systems, the work on the frontend side has already been started. The reason behind not starting the front end development before backend development is reducing the overall timeline for the process of creating a mobile application. We will see why development companies prefer to start with backend first. But before that, let’s see how long it takes to create the frontend of the app, what makes frontend.

Note: When you work with any company or developer, ask them how the backend works and check on the milestone you have agreed upon.

• Front End Development:

Once the server is in development and the structure of the database is set – the development team starts working parallelly on the frontend side or the mobile application itself. It will be rendering and creating data from the aforementioned back-end server.

The front-end developers commonly manage the tasks that enable functionality from 6 to 8 weeks. Programmers utilize frameworks like Swift, Objective – C, and Java to create separate versions for the App Store and Google Play.

What’s important to know about the UI design (as we have seen in the design section)and front-end development parts of the project is that both of those tasks require a lot of repetition. Design and fluency of the interface are much more subjective than even UX design, so the team should be prepared for a lot of discussions and edits.

In the frontend, caching is created for temporary data storage. Basically, the application’s data is stored in the caching in order to reduce the loading time of the application thereby eliminating the requirement of calling the server.

Developers work for making the app offline by creating a data synchronization mechanism. It tracks the versions of data built online and offline to store updated data sets.

Apart from that, internal testing is done at the frontend part to make sure that everything is perfect and working properly.

The frontend development cycle usually completes in six weeks of timeframe.

Testing (3 weeks to 4 weeks)

Once the development part is over from the developer side, the last and most imperative part of the application development process starts.

Yes, we are talking about Testing- finding bugs and glitches that could jeopardize your app functionality if not properly tested.

Usually, quality analysts work on this process and make sure your app comes out filtered and fully-functioned. QA works on initial testing called “Alpha testing” to eradicate some basic bugs and complexity during this stage before proceeding to the next stage. It is usually tested to check whether the application is working as expected or not. Whether the functionality of the app justifies the design that was planned or not. However, this type of testing is insufficient to go for the market.

In most projects, our quality analyst understands the need for the app and creates test cases that developers check while they are initially working on the application. So some basic features and functionality rectifies at the early stages of the app development. Then, our testers work on UI testing and functionality testing. They rectify the bugs module by module.

One of the most vital parts of the testing is to verify the compatibility of the app. Since some apps are built for multiple devices. So it properly checked on each every major device for better compatibility and seamless UX. At last our QA test the performance of the application.

Before the app finally goes out in a fully-fledged mode, the beta testing is done and the app is made available to a few selected users. At last, the final testing removes all the flaws from the mobile app and the app goes to the app stores for public use.

In the mobile app development timeline, application testing takes around 3 weeks to 4 weeks.

Deploying to The App Store (Up to 1 Weeks)

Now, you have developed an application. You have also completed the testing procedure. Now what? You might ask how long does it take to get an app to market?

But do you think your application will be live on the app stores without any hassle? No. There is no instant approval process for doing that. So what should you do?

There are specific steps to be followed for presenting your application to iOS users.

Apple store has strict guidelines if you want your app to be featured on that. And it takes a considerable amount of time to do that. Android Playstore also has some rules that you should follow to get onto that.

So how long does it take to get an application on app stores?

Both popular stores review your submitted app against their review policies.

• Apple App Store

Apple has been known for its stricter submission policies. And reviews for design, content, and functionality and most importantly the security of your app. Apple doesn’t want the iOS store to clutter with bug-soaked, low-quality, and insecure apps.

Hence, make sure you are submitting your applicaton in the App store after going through all the meticulous details. You can go through Apple guidelines for the app development.

The time it takes to approve your iOS application in the app store depends on multiple factors. If the app is rejected, do not get agitated, but communicate with Apple’s Resolution Center modestly. They would give you a proper reason for rejection.

Generally, apps we have submitted to the Apple store have taken 2 days or a little longer. But it depends on the type of your app.

In the Apple Store, on average, 50% of the mobile apps are reviewed in 24 hours, and more than 90% of the apps are reviewed in 48 hours.

• Google Play Store

If we talk about the Google play store, it too has its quality guidelines. You should follow it strictly if you don’t want your application to get rejected. Additionally, it will increase the time to develop an app.

Understand that Google too wants your app to be published without any hassle. After all, they are cashing on your app’s sale. So it is the best practice to submit your app after reading every policy Google wants you to follow.

In most cases, if you are a first timer in approving your app, then according to the latest Play store rule, it will take a minimum of 3 days to submit your application and go live.

But if you are updating your second or third application in the Play store, It will be updated on the same day, in fact within 2 hours.

Factors Which Can Increase the App Development Timeline

Now that we’ve explained every stage along with an estimated timeframe that adds to the collective application development time – let’s discover the factors that add to the timeline of your app building.

So, we’ll take a look at perspectives from both ends. First, we’ll explore the factors from the app owner’s point of view:

1. App Owner’s Mistakes/Actions Which Delay App Development Timeline

• Verify every detail stage-wise – Finding mistakes right during every stage’s end will save a lot of time. Remember, time is money!
• Your lack of technical knowledge – If you lag in tech-stack knowledge, outsourcing your app development is probably not a very good idea. Choose to outsource your project, which will help you keep up with the application development timeline.
• Change of mind or influence from other ideas – This is possible only when you need to do more brainstorming. If you had gone through everything earlier, you would not have got new ideas when the development process was already in progress.

2. Developer’s Mistakes/Actions Which Slow Down the Mobile App Development Timeline

• Irresponsible & inconsistent with the development cycle – Finding mistakes right during every stage’s end will save a lot of time. Remember, time is money!
• Industry-oriented approach – Different industries will require different technologies for their applications. This implies that an education app will be made using frameworks different from those of a social media chatting/messaging application.

Apart from the above reasons for app development cost increase, inefficient processes also contribute to the total expenses. To reduce the app development process cost, you must understand its stages and optimize them for reduced costs.

Key Stages of the App Development Process

There are multiple stages in developing an application, from planning to design and development. Each stage is significant and works together to create advanced functions and enhance user experience.

1. Analysis of App Development Needs

This is the first app development phase involving activities related to need analysis, planning, and research. It includes market research, feasibility tests, and finding answers to queries like,

• Are there similar apps to the one you want to develop in the market?
• What is the scope of an app development project?
• What should be the budget for app development?
• What is the value proposition of your application?

Apart from these questions, you must conduct comprehensive research on the market demands and niche-based issues.

2. Wireframing & Prototyping

When you complete the needed analysis, the next app development phase is to create a wireframe of the entire project, including the processes, frameworks, tools, and resources needed. The wireframe will also include a mockup of the app’s UI. This will require extensive design thinking and expert UI design. Once you have the mockups ready, share them with the stakeholders and get their approval.

3. Designing Stage

Once approved, build a prototype of the app design mockups for A/B testing. Test multiple variations and finalize the design. Consider key functionalities related to the application and integrate them into your design. It makes sure that the app design is responsive for specific activities like purchasing action, clicks on contact us element or others.

4. Develop Your App

Start by first developing a mini version of your application also known as the minimum viable product or MVP. It will allow you to test the app with core features and gather important feedback. You can further integrate this feedback in new iterations.

Following the continuous development approach, you can improve the app features and performance with each iteration.

5. Leverage Continous Testing

Testing your application is crucial to understanding its feasibility, usability, and acceptance by the audience. However, the testing will also be extensive if you choose a continuous improvement approach. WIth the constant testing approach, you test each iteration and fine-tune performance.

How to Shorten the App Development Timeline

As we have discussed earlier, the longer the mobile application building duration, the more you have to pay for the app.

Usually, people ask us how to build an app for my business in the fastest way. If you want to launch your application as soon as possible and go live in the market before anybody else can grab your idea. You must pay attention to various ways to build your mobile application in considerably less time.

Let’s shed some light on that and know how to reduce the timeline for building a mobile app.

Create MVP for your app.

MVP (Minimum Viable Product) is an application built with only the most essential features.

It does not have all the cool features on the market; it has just enough to stay viable.

What if the fully featured app you built failed miserably due to your impractical idea or functionality? You don’t want your money and time wasted on that, right?

MVP allows you to test your application in the market with only its core functionality. If your idea is unique and early adopters love it, you can always add extra cool features to make your application more attractive and profitable.

Renowned apps like Instagram, Airbnb, Dropbox, and Facebook unveiled their MVP apps first, and then they launched in full swing.

The MVP timeline for application development is shorter than that of fully featured mobile apps. If you are unsure or want to launch your product as soon as possible, develop an MVP app.

Go for Cross Platform

Another approach that could notably decrease the total time for app development is Cross-platform app development.

Since the native app is exclusively made for a specific platform, it requires separate coders and two different apps to reach a larger audience. Thus, it takes more time to develop an app.

On the other hand, Cross-platform development allows developers to code an app only once for both the platforms. Almost all the code is reusable and similar. So, you can develop an application in less time without compromising user experience. Apart from that, you could promote your app on multiple platforms, unlike Native, where you can upload your application only to app stores.

Since the tech giants like Google and Facebook have developed their cross-platform technologies called Flutter and React Native respectively, the inclination towards these platforms has increased.

All in all, go for cross-platform development if you want your application to be in the market as soon as possible.

White Label Solution of Clone Apps

It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that hordes of clones follow every successful app because of its attributes, such as lower cost, time, and skills.

With these white-label clone apps, you can quickly get an application similar to popular apps in the market in a week or so. In these services, the application’s data layer remains the same, but it is possible to edit the front end. You could customize the UI of the application according to your ideas. You receive a ready-to-use app to which you can stick to your own brand identity.

Many white-label solution providers and clone application development companies worldwide can provide you with clone apps like Uber, Netflix, TaskRabbit, Uber Eats, and more.

Usually, some entrepreneurs prefer such solutions because they are faster and cheaper. They know custom application development may take a lot of time to complete. But these are precisely why you should NOT hire an affordable mobile app development company.

To reduce the application development time, white-label apps are a perfect option.

Apart from these tactics, ensure you know what you want when discussing your project with the developers early. Late additions to different functionalities would disturb the development process and extend the app’s development time frame.

Concluding Thoughts: How long does it take to build an application

So, how long does it take to make an app? The answer depends on many factors discussed above. Developing an app is an intricate process. Some simple apps can be built within 2 months, whereas some complex apps may take 5- 7 months. Complex applications have more features and functionality, and their designs are more detailed and complex.

However, there are specific ways, like building an MVP application, Cross-platform, or white-label clone application, in which you can start your dream startup in much less time.

Do you have any app ideas or want them to become a reality? Let us help you out, and allow us to build the most beautiful and marketable mobile application in a decided timeline.

Or you can hire dedicated developers who will work dedicatedly for your mobile application development.

6 Tips to Develop an App in Decided Timeline

When you plan app development, the time it will take will affect the cost. An optimal timeline for app development requires careful planning and robust implementation. From the roadmap to the prototyping, designing, and development process, you must take specific measures to reduce timelines.

So, here are some tips to optimize the timeline for mobile app development,

1. Embrace the Lean Startup Approach

If you want to reduce the app development timeline, you can leverage a lean startup approach. It focuses on the product feasibility first. You can create a build-measure-learn loop embracing the lean startup method,

An essential part of the lean startup approach is to build MVPs, test them continuously, and integrate feedback with each iteration. This loop of building MVPs, measuring their performance, and then analyzing user input makes the entire loop holistic for your app development project.

2. Leverage Low-Fidelity Wireframing

Wireframing offers deeper insights if you are looking for an answer to how long it takes to build an app. It includes everything from architecture to processes and tools. Wireframes can be used to design applications and act as comprehensive roadmaps. However, creating an elaborate wireframe can take a long time, leading to a longer timeline for app development.

The solution is a low-fidelity wireframe focusing only on the application’s core features and functionalities. These wireframes allow developers to focus on developing the app’s core functionality. Minimal resource requirements make low-fidelity wireframing one of the best ways to reduce the timeline for app development.

3. Use the Agile Approach for App Development

The conventional app development approach is linear and leads to longer timelines. However, an agile approach leverages nonlinear app development, improving flexibility, collaboration, and efficiency.

Agile approach supports continuous improvements through sprints. You can continuously integrate feedback with each sprint, enhancing the app development. This approach helps reduce the timeline for mobile app development and allows continuous integration of user feedback.

4. Have Shorter Release Cycles

One of the best approaches to reducing the timelines for mobile app development is to shorten the release cycle of each iteration. This includes providing instant access to clients or users as features are added. This reduces the release cycle as shorter sprints will focus on each feature individually. Shorter release cycles can help integrate feedback faster and make quick changes for a seamless user experience.

5. Leverage Component-Based Design

This is a unique approach to reducing the timeline for app development and offering an unmatched user experience. Using component-based UI design, you can create reusable front-end code and integrate the UI across platforms for your applications.

It also simplifies the maintenance and update activities, ensuring more time for the development team to focus on the core features and product functionalities.

6. Deploy Cross-Platform

Developing a native app can take more time. You will need two separate applications, one for Android and the other for iOS. So, the timeline for app development across two native platforms will increase significantly. One way to avoid such a scenario is by developing a cross-platform application and deploying it across the platforms.

Infographic: Timeline For Building A Mobile Application

FAQs on Application Development Timeline

Article By

Mayur Panchal

Mayur Panchal is the CTO of Excellent Webworld. With his skills and expertise, He stays updated with industry trends and utilizes his technical expertise to address problems faced by entrepreneurs and startup owners.