Overview of Cost for Creating An App Like Netflix

Last updated on June 25th, 2024 at 10:10 am

Remember when you had to reach busy video rental stores and wait for days to watch the latest movies? Now things have changed a lot! All thanks to the incredible video streaming service. With just a few clicks, you can access an amazing collection of movies, web series, TV shows, and documentaries anytime, anywhere.

A streaming app like Netflix is a leading platform in this field. This app has completely modified how we watch movies and TV shows. The success of Netflix inspired many entrepreneurs. Could any of us develop the next big streaming application?
If you have a great idea to create a video streaming app, you might be wondering about its cost. Creating a strong, attractive, and easy-to-use platform like Netflix may be difficult but don’t need to worry! This blog will guide you!

Are you ready to explore the world of video streaming app development? Grab your virtual popcorn and prepare to navigate this complex but thrilling journey.

The Market of Netflix Platform

The Netflix market is booming! It had a big drop for a little while but recovered quickly. And the market statistics back up this point, not just our observation.

Netflix App Development Key Facts

• After slowing down in 2022, Netflix is now steadily increasing its number of subscribers which reaches an impressive 260.28 million users worldwide by 2024.
• Netflix’s efforts to limit password sharing seem to be effective which leads to over 200,000 new paying subscribers.
• Netflix’s new subscription plan with ads is proving popular, with 23 million subscribers already signed up. This could be a major source of income for Netflix
• Surprisingly, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa have become Netflix’s largest market, surpassing others. This demonstrates Netflix’s ability to reach diverse audiences globally.
• Slovakia and Bulgaria are unexpectedly leading in content variety with over 8,000 titles each. This reflects Netflix’s commitment to offering diverse programming tailored to different regions.
• In the United States, a significant portion (27%) of subscribers share their accounts with family members. This highlights a challenge Netflix is actively engaging with new policies.
• This report clearly illustrates the dominance of apps like Netflix in the market. However, developing a similar app requires a well-defined strategy and planning.

Understanding the Cost Variables (Foundation of your Streaming Vision)

Imaging your video streaming app should be filled with engaging content, easy navigation, and features that keep the user attractive.

Before turning this dream into reality, it’s important to explore the complex factors that affect development costs.

Here. We’ll break down these elements that guide you on how to manage the financial aspects of your project.

App Features

• The features and functions of your streaming app like Netflix directly impact the cost of development. The main features like user account, smooth video playback, search options, and basic recommendations are essential for any successful streaming application.
• As the cost increases when adding more advanced features. A streaming app that allows its users to download videos and watch them offline. This might be a further step toward the streaming app’s success.
• Imagine an app that offers personalized recommendations depending on viewing history and supports multiple languages. Each of these advanced features demands more development effort and high cost.

Development Approach: – Native VS Cross Platform

Choosing between Native and Cross Platform development is another important decision when taking services for mobile app development.

1. Native Platform Development

This approach includes creating separate apps for different platforms like iOS and Android. While it offers excellent performance and seamless user experience. It will be more expensive due to the need for specialized developers for each platform.

2. Cross-Platform Development

This method uses a framework like React Native App Development to build a single codebase that works on both iOS and Android. It’s cost-effective but may involve slight compromises in performance and user experience compared to native apps.

Team Structure and Global Talent Market

• Building a streaming app requires a skilled development team that involves developers, designers, testers, and project managers. The location of team members directly impacts the cost.
• Hiring an app development service in the US may cost considerably more than hiring one in India. While the factors like communication and cultural differences lead to cost savings.

Considering Ongoing Costs

Development expenses are just one aspect that should be taken into consideration. Remember to budget for ongoing expenses such as content licensing, server maintenance, and marketing. Security measures to protect user data and compliance with regulations will also involve additional costs.

Understanding these above-mentioned factors enables you to navigate the financial challenges of streaming app development and turn your vision into a successful reality.

Features to Include in Your App like Netflix

The success of mobile apps relies on the app’s features and functions. Good features always attract users, make their lives easier, and also encourage them to stick with your app. Here we have some features to consider for your Netflix-like app.

Social Sharing

Allow users to share their favorite shows and movies through social media platforms. This feature not only expands your app’s reach but also fosters a community where users can connect, recommend content, and engage more deeply with your platform.

Live Streaming Event

Live streaming events like concerts or award shows attract viewers looking for real-time entertainment. These features add excitement and interactivity. The exciting features also distinguish your app from others offering only pre-recorded content.

Advanced Research

Adding a robust research function with filters for genres, language, and more. This makes it easier for users to find specific content within your app’s extensive library leading to more usability and satisfaction.

Easy Setup

A smooth login experience is crucial for an OTT platform like Netflix. Users want to explore the right content without hassle. Make sure your app allows quick access with minimal information required which leads to maximizing user experience and retention.

Intelligent Content Recommendations

Use AI to suggest content based on user preferences and viewing history. This personalized approach helps users discover new shows and movies they’ll love similar to what Netflix and other successful apps do.

Cross-Platform Support

Ensure your app works seamlessly across various devices like smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and desktops. This flexibility lets users enjoy their favorite movies and TV shows wherever they are. This boosts user convenience and provides maximum satisfaction.

Extensive Content Library

Offer a diverse and extensive library of high-quality shows and movies. Users appreciate having a wide range of exclusive content to explore. This ensures there’s always something new and exciting to watch for everyone.

Push Notifications

Keep users engaged with timely notifications about new releases, episodes, or personalized recommendations. This feature allows users to stay informed and motivates them to revisit the app.

How to Develop a Netflix Like App? Explore the Easy Steps!

Many people look for how can I make an app similar to Netflix. Designing a successful app like Netflix needs proper & careful planning, execution, and continuous innovation. Here we have discussed the main step of making a successful app like Netflix:-

Know Your Audience and Their Requirement

First, understand your audience and what their needs are. Knowing their likes is also important. Identifying a specific group in the streaming market is important. Also, study them well and focus on which features you want to offer to your audience. You should also study their age, what they like to watch, and what they want in your app to keep your users interested.

Create a Strong Business Plan

How can you make lots of money? You should also consider different features to add to your movie streaming app like subscriptions, ads, pay-per-view, or a mix. Look at other streaming services and their prices to make a good plan. Your goal should be to make money and give a good service to your users so that they’ll love your app.

Get Great Content

To develop a great app like Netflix, you need great shows and movies. Get deals with TV and movie makers to get great content and try to make new contacts with movie producers. Make your shows too to stand out and attract new users but start with partnerships to save money.

Design Your App

Designing your app with good features and templates is very important. How your app looks is important for getting attention from new users and maintaining the interest of old users. Make a simple look that’s easy to use and helps people find what they want. Make it so people can look at shows, change settings, and keep a list of what they want to watch.

Build Your App

Now, choose the best development service for making an app like Netflix. Our team of professional developers makes your app like Netflix that stands out. Choose the best features and tech to build your app for phones start working on your idea and turn it into reality. Use different languages to write the code that makes your app work well on each type of phone and offers a flawless user experience.

Test Your App

If your online movie streaming app is ready then test it. Test it on lots of phones and systems to find and fix any bugs. Also, try to get feedback from users testing your app and bring improvements to create a smooth working app.

Release Your App

When your app is done then launch it. Put your app on any store you want. It might take about 2-3 weeks to hear back. Get ready with ways to tell people about your app, and hire influencers to promote your app so lots of people will download it and use the app.

Keep Your App Running

Now, keep your app working well. Add new shows, movies, and web series often to keep people happy and satisfied as well. Work on what users say to bring improvement to the app. Also, learn about new things in apps and tech to keep making your app even better.

How Does it Cost to Develop an App like Netflix?

So, the cost to develop a video streaming app like Netflix depends on the features you are adding to your app.  The cost of creating and designing an app similar to Netflix can range somewhere between $60,000 to $200,000. This price may go up or down depending on the project’s specific requirements.

The exact cost of creating an app like Netflix varies based on different factors like Tech, coding, design, features, complexity, development team, developer experience, and platform. This is just an estimation. You need to have a strong plan to create an app within a budget.

Factors Influencing Your Netflix-like App’s Cost

Many factors affect the cost of developing an app like Netflix. Here we’re going to share a few of the factors that can affect the cost to create an app similar to Netflix.

Features

The number of features and complexity directly impact the cost of development. The basic features such as user profile, video streaming, and content management are crucial. Meanwhile, advanced features like VR integration and recommendations will higher the cost of development.

Platform

If you have decided to create an app like Netflix for both IOS and Android then this needs more time & money. Target your audience and focus on the platform to prioritize for movie streaming. If you’re choosing a cross-platform approach then the Flutter app development framework can be an affordable option.

Development Team

The development cost also depends on the location of the development team—programmers located in the US charge high than developers in Asia or India. If you’re considering iPhone app development then this crafts a seamless and intuitive interface for iOS users.

Technology Stack  

The high-tech stack like the programming language, & framework that you decide will impact development efficiency and its cost. It’s crucial to use scalable as well as supported technologies.

UI/UX Design

A budget-friendly UI/UX design plays an important role in user engagement and satisfaction. Only a skilled developer can greatly improve the app’s usability and make it appealing. Creating an Android App Development for users will be a cost-effective option.

Ongoing Maintenance and Support

If you decide to develop an app like Netflix or any other then it requires regular support and maintenance to ensure its smooth working. This feature helps to secure your app from bugs and issues and avoid frustrating user experience. To stand out from your competitors and invite new users you have to bring regular updates to your website. Also add new content, and features and fix issues for a better user experience.

Content Acquisition

New content is important for a Netflix-like app. Whether licensing existing content or making your own, it’ll be expensive. You need to plan your content acquisition strategy within your budget and user’s requirements.

Revenue Strategies For Your Netflix Like App

Advertising

As we all know the fact that advertisement is a powerful tool to promote a movie streaming app like Netflix and grab the attention of lots of users. If the user base grows, the value of your advertising space increases which boosts your revenue automatically. Strategically run ads through different social media platforms. This can help you to reach a wider audience and keep the revenue flowing.

Partnership

Forming a partnership can provide exclusive content, promotions, and co-branded experiences within your Netflix-like app. This will expand your reach and produce extra profit in a mutually beneficial way.

In-App Purchases

This is one of the beneficial strategies that allows users to buy or rent individual movies instead of subscribing to the whole streaming platform. The option is available for all users who prefer specific content without committing to a full subscription. It’s likely to be appreciated by your audience.

Subscription Based Model

All the Subscription-based apps are famous and profitable. You can offer different subscription tiers with various incredible features and pricing. This tactic allows users to select a plan that suits their budget and requirements. Moreover, providing a free trial can also help users experience the app’s potential before committing to a subscription.

Benefits of Developing a streaming app like Netflix?

The appeal of the best apps like Netflix is unmatchable. It opens the door for entertainment and fun. The video streaming app is easy to use and offers a flawless experience to users. The apps similar to Netflix help to generate a lot of money and a potentially lucrative for businesses. But always think beyond the entertainment factors, there are other significant factors to develop a streaming app in today’s digital world. Let’s explore the other advantages of developing a streaming app both for users and businesses.

For User

On-demand Entertainment:

Imagine a world where you don’t have a fixed TV schedule. With a streaming app, you can watch whenever you like and whenever you want. Curious to binge-watch a new series at 3 AM. No issues. Feel like catching up on a documentary during your lunch break? This flexibility is great for busy lives and different tastes.

A Multi-Device Experience:

A few years back, the entertainment was limited to watching television in the living room. Nowadays, streaming apps allow you to conveniently access web series and movies through different devices like laptops, tablets, phones, and smart TVs. This means you can enjoy your favorite shows and movies whenever you are free. Whether you’re on the go, traveling or just chilling at home, without any interruptions.

Content Choice Galore:

You don’t need to flip through old shows on TV anymore. Streaming apps offer a huge collection of movies, documentaries, TV shows, and even special interest programs. You can watch your favorite shows and even explore new movies, web series, and TV shows.

Personalized Recommendations:

Searching for the right shows can be hard. Streaming apps use your data and what you watch to suggest shows personalized for you. This stops you from unlimited searching and helps you find stuff you’ll probably really appreciate.

For Business:-

Subscription Revenue Streams:

This model is important for streaming apps to become successful. Users pay every month to explore the new web series content that helps the business make huge money. Even, many streaming apps offer different subscription plans to meet various user preferences and budgets.

Global Reach and Scalability: –

Streaming apps are different from regular TV channels and media because they aren’t restricted by where they can go. They offer content that can be accessed by every individual around the world. The worldwide access helps businesses grow fast, and effectively and earn huge revenue.

Valuable User Data:

Video streaming apps gather information about how users watch and what they want to watch. This valuable data helps them determine which kind of movies and web series to collect, create content that viewers will appreciate, and make the app even more personalized.

Building Brand Loyalty

Having a well-chosen collection of movies, and shows, and an easy-to-use app design can make users feel more connected to the brand. When users continuously enjoy the app, they are more likely to keep paying for it and also inform their friends about it.

How eBizneeds Can Help You Create a Popular App Like Netflix?

Want to create an app like Netflix? eBizneeds is a leading video streaming app development company. We have an expert team of experienced developers and designers ready to help you build a top-notch video streaming app.

With our expertise, you can launch a successful Netflix-like app that offers a flawless experience to its users. If you have an idea and want to turn it into reality then reach out to us and let’s make a successful app together!

Conclusion

Last but not least, creating an app similar to Netflix would be a profitable business but it requires proper planning and execution.  You should know your target audience, focus on your essential features, and pick the right monetization tactics to succeed. You can develop a successful video-streaming app that boosts engagement and creates a profitable business. Working with an experienced app development company like eBizneeds can make the process easier and bring your idea to life. From its design to launch, our skilled developers help you manage the challenges of building a OTT app and ensure it succeeds in the long run. The expertise of our developers in creating apps is unmatchable.

FAQs For Netflix App Development

How much does it cost to create an app similar to Netflix?

The general cost of creating an app similar to Netflix may range between $60,000 to $200,000. The exact cost will be based on various factors such as the design of the app, features, complexity, developer’s experience, and location.

How eBizneeds help me create my video streaming app?

eBizneeds build a team of professional developers who have years of experience in the app development field. We provide a complete set of services including idea creation, design, app launch, marketing, and ongoing support & maintenance.

How can I earn money from my streaming app?

You can offer subscription plans to your users. Other popular options are advertising, in-app purchases for specific content, and collaborations with other companies.

What are the essential features of a streaming app?

Many essential features include fast setup support on different platforms, personalized suggestions, and a strong search tool.

How long does it take to develop a streaming app?

The time it takes to create a streaming app varies based on its complexity. A simple app might take 3 to 6 months but an advanced app like Netflix can take more than 6 months. Things like which platform have you decided? Is it for IOS or Android? How big the development team is affects the time. If you need to get it faster then think about starting with a minimum viable product (MVP) that is just the basic feature first.

Naveen Khanna

Naveen Khanna is the CEO of eBizneeds, a company renowned for its bespoke web and mobile app development. By delivering high-end modern solutions all over the globe, Naveen takes pleasure in sharing his rich experiences and views on emerging technological trends. He has worked in many domains, from education, entertainment, banking, manufacturing, healthcare, and real estate, sharing rich experience in delivering innovative solutions.