Tarun Nagar “Real conversations. Virtual space. WhatsApp magic.”
In this digital age, many instant messaging apps come and go, but no one can match the level of WhatsApp. It connects people to their long-distance friends and family members with just one blue tick and connects via group video calls to increase flexibility. As per the global survey, instant messaging applications were valued at around $46.75 billion in 2024.
This is projected to increase to around $113.9 billion by the end of 2032. This data depicts that investing in messaging applications is the highest profit-generating opportunity for entrepreneurs to take their businesses to the next level.
Do you want to build an app like WhatsApp? Just explore this blog, we provide detailed information about how to develop an app like WhatsApp, premium features, development costs, and money-making strategies.
What is WhatsApp?
WhatsApp is a free texting app that allows users to share texts, voice messages, images, and videos and make audio/video conversations via the Internet. Meta (previously Facebook) owns the platform, which is available on cellphones and PCs.
WhatsApp uses end-to-end encryption to protect conversations and offers group chats, file sharing, and status updates, making it a popular choice for personal and corporate communication globally.
- Text Messaging
- Voice & Video Calls
- End-to-End Encryption
Market Analysis of Global Messaging Applications
- In 2024, instant messaging apps were estimated to be worth $46.75 billion. By the end of 2032, this is expected to rise to almost $113.9
- From 2025 to 2030, the global messaging application API market is anticipated to expand at a compound yearly growth rate of 9%.
- With a 8% market share in 2024, North America led the messaging application API market.
- With 57 million downloads as of June 2025, WhatsApp was the most popular chat and messaging app.
- In the third quarter of 2024, 5 percent of people with internet access used online chat and messaging platforms at least once a month.
10 Successful Messaging Apps Like WhatsApp
The following table lists 10 well-known chatting apps in UAE, together with information about their launch year, projected download volume, user reviews, and platform accessibility as of 2025:
| Applications | Download Users | Stores Ratings | Apps Launched On | Platform Accessibility |
| Telegram | 1.5B+ | 4.5 | 2013 | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, Web |
| Signal | 100M+ | 4.6 | 2010 | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Facebook Messenger | 5B+ | 4.2 | 2010 | Android, iOS, Web |
| Viber | 1B+ | 4.5 | 2010 | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux |
| LINE | 1B+ | 4.6 | 2011 | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS |
| Snapchat | 1B+ | 4.3 | 2011 | Android, iOS |
| Discord | 500M+ | 4.7 | 2015 | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, Web |
| Skype | 1B+ | 4.4 | 2003 | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Threema | 10M+ | 4.7 | 2012 | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS |
| 1B+ | 4.5 | 2011 | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS |
Why do Businesses Invest in Messaging App Development?
In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, communication is essential for corporate success. As a result, more businesses are investing in custom software development services in UAE. There are five strong reasons why:
1. Enhanced Customer Engagement
Free apps similar to WhatsApp provide a direct, real-time communication route for businesses and customers. Businesses may employ tools like instant messaging, push notifications, and chatbots to give speedier responses, address issues promptly, and keep consumers engaged, resulting in higher customer satisfaction and loyalty.
2. Cost-effective Communication
Traditional customer service channels, such as phone calls or in-person assistance, are frequently expensive and resource-intensive. Best app like WhatsApp for Android help businesses cut expenses by automating basic queries with AI chatbots and allowing customer support professionals to handle many conversations at once.
3. Brand Personalization
Messaging apps with encryption like WhatsApp, enable organizations to create a branded user experience that reflects their identity and values. Businesses may build a distinct, personalized communication environment that resonates with consumers by implementing custom emojis and themes, as well as loyalty programs and in-app support.
4. Improved Internal Collaboration
Apps like WhatsApp without phone numbers are useful tools for both internal and external communication. Businesses invest in social network app from Scratch to improve team collaboration, particularly among remote or hybrid workforces. Group conversations, file sharing, and task management are all useful features that boost workflow efficiency and decision-making.
5. Data Collection and Insights
WhatsApp alternative for privacy collects valuable user data, such as chat histories and user behavior. Businesses can use this data to better understand client demands, track performance metrics, and improve their services. This information help to inform smarter marketing tactics and more targeted client engagements.
7 Powerful Steps to Develop an App Like WhatsApp
To create an app like Whatsapp with unique or customized features, you have to consider the following development steps and understand each process to implement every resource. Let’s start the robust social networking app development process:
1. Identify Project Needs
Define your app’s purpose, target audience, and business goals. Conduct market research to understand competitors and user expectations. Clear objectives will guide development and ensure your messaging app aligns with both user demand and your strategic vision.
| What are your app’s basic or core requirements? |
| Clear your app’s future goals. |
| Which real-time chat apps are more successful and trending in this competitive market? |
2. Features and Functions
List essential features such as real-time messaging, voice/video calls, media sharing, encryption, and notifications. Hire social networking app developers to consider advanced functionalities like group chats, status updates, or cloud sync. Prioritize based on user needs, scalability, and your app’s unique value proposition.
| What are your app’s basic or premium features and functions? |
| Observe the existing mobile chat apps for the best features. |
| Make an organized sheet of features and functions to reduce data redundancy. |
3. Select Tech Stacks
Choose suitable technologies for frontend, backend, and database. Options include React Native or Flutter for mobile, Node.js or Python for backend, and Firebase or MongoDB for storage. Ensure the tech stack supports scalability, security, and real-time communication.
| Which type of tech stacks are used in your WhatsApp clone app development? |
| Define your scalability requirements. |
| Choose advanced or basic tech stacks. |
4. Design UI/UX
Hire experienced mobile app developers from full stack development company to create a clean, intuitive interface that enhances user experience. Focus on simplicity, navigation, and responsiveness. Ensure consistency across platforms, incorporate user feedback, and prioritize ease of use to encourage engagement and retention in a competitive app market.
| What are wireframes in UX design? |
| What tools do you use for prototyping? |
| How do you ensure a responsive design? |
5. App Development
Develop WhatsApp clone app by implementing frontend and backend logic, APIs, and third-party integrations. Ensure real-time capabilities using technologies like WebSockets. Follow agile methodologies for iterative development, regular updates, and collaborative problem-solving between developers and stakeholders.
| Do you want to create hybrid or native apps? |
| Choose highly talented mobile app developers. |
| Integrate a high number of features and functions. |
6. Testing and QA
In the second last stage of development, hire a Flutter app development company to conduct thorough testing, including unit, integration, and usability tests. Identify bugs, performance issues, and security vulnerabilities. Use automated and manual testing to ensure the app performs well across devices, platforms, and network conditions before launch.
| Make sure that all features and functions are working properly. |
| Use various testing methods, such as functional and usability testing. |
| Check the app’s security measurements. |
7. Publishing and Maintenance
Deploy the WhatsApp-like app to app stores following their guidelines. Post-launch, monitor performance, fix bugs, and release updates. Regularly improve features based on user feedback and analytics to maintain competitiveness and ensure long-term user satisfaction and retention.
| Publish your app on selected platforms like Android and iOS. |
| Use the best marketing techniques. |
| Assign the post-maintenance phases to maintain the app’s performance. |
10 Must-Have Features of Apps Like WhatsApp
These features combine to create a comprehensive, secure, and user-friendly messaging experience. So, here we provide a list of simple and advanced features of messaging apps like WhatsApp:
1. End-to-End Encryption
WhatsApp similar apps provide end-to-end encryption, which ensures that only the sender and recipient can read messages, protecting user privacy.
2. Text and Voice Messaging
Instagram alternative websites has the ability to transmit text and audio messages increases adaptability, allowing users to converse more quickly and conveniently.
3. Audio and Video Calls
Open source apps like WhatsApp offer Real-time, face-to-face communication that requires high-quality audio and video calling services, even when users are miles apart.
4. Group Chats
Group chat functionality is essential for connecting numerous individuals at once, whether for personal or professional purposes.
5. Media Sharing
WhatsApp clone app allows users to exchange photographs, videos, audio files, and documents, enhancing the app’s engagement and utility for a variety of purposes.
6. Payment Gateway Integration
Apps like WhatsApp offer various payment gateway integration such as UPI, credit or debit cards, net banking, and bank transfer.
7. File-Sharing
The app’s ability to exchange larger items, such as PDFs and presentations, makes it suitable for both personal and professional use.
8. Status Updates
If you build a social media app, it allows users to send transient text, images, or videos that expire after 24 hours, much like WhatsApp’s Status function.
9. Push Notifications
WhatsApp alternatives offer real-time notifications to keep users informed about new messages, calls, or updates, ensuring instant communication.
10. Customizable Settings
Communication apps allow users to tailor their app experience by changing notification choices, chat backgrounds, and privacy restrictions.
What is the Cost to Develop An App Like WhatsApp?
The cost to develop an app like WhatsApp can range from $8,000 to $25,000 or more, depending on factors like features, platform (iOS, Android, or both), design complexity, and developer rates. Basic versions with messaging and media sharing may cost less, while advanced features like end-to-end encryption, voice/video calls, and real-time synchronization increase the price.
Development location also matters—rates are higher in the US/Europe and lower in regions like India or Eastern Europe. Ongoing maintenance and updates should also be considered in the total budget.
Cost to Build An App Like WhatsApp
|
Messaging App Development |
Estimated Cost | Time Frame |
| Basic App Development | $8000 – $12000 | 2 to 6 Months |
|
Mid-Premium App Development |
$14000 – $19000 | 6 to 8 Months |
| High-Premium App Development | $25000+ | 9+ Months |
5 Major Factors That Affect Messaging App Development Cost
Messaging app development costs depend on several key factors, including the size and location of the development team, complexity of the app design, backend infrastructure requirements, choice of basic versus premium features, and ongoing support and maintenance. Each element influences the overall budget, timeline, and scalability of the final product.
1. Development Team
The cost is mostly determined by the team’s size, expertise, and location. Hiring developers from North America or Western Europe costs more than outsourcing to Asia or Eastern Europe. The decision to hire freelancers, an in-house team, or a development firm has a substantial impact on the overall cost to develop an app like Sharechat.
| Developer’s Experience Level | Cost Estimation |
| Entry-Level Developer | $15 – $18/ Per Hour |
| Mid-Level Developer | $18 – $22/ Per Hour |
| Senior-Level Developer | $25+ / Per Hour |
2. Application Design
A user-friendly and visually appealing design extends development time and costs. Designers must be skilled to create custom UI/UX elements, animations, and seamless navigation. Apps with complicated interfaces or branding-specific aesthetics typically cost more than apps that use common design templates. A well-designed software improves the user experience and retention, making it a worthwhile investment.
| Design Quality | Cost Estimation |
| Basic Design | $8,000 – $12,000 |
| Complex Design | $15,000 – $22,000 |
3. Back-End Development
The back end powers fundamental functions such as data storage, user management, and real-time messaging. Building a reliable, scalable, and secure back end necessitates the use of competent developers as well as cloud services such as AWS or Firebase. The complexity of server logic, encryption protocols, and third-party integrations can greatly increase the cost of social networking app development solutions in UAE.
| Backend Development | Cost Estimation |
| Basic Backend Process | $10,000 – $18,000 |
| Premium Backend Process | $20,000 – $28,000 |
4. Basic and Premium Features
Basic capabilities like text chat, media sharing, and notifications are required, however premium options like video conferencing, encryption, and cloud backup increase chat app development cost. The more functionalities you provide, the larger the development investment. Prioritizing a minimal viable product (MVP) might help you control startup costs and scale later.
| Features | Cost Estimation |
| Core Features(Media Sharing and Real-Time Chat) | $8,000 – $10,000 |
| Advanced Features(Audio & Video Calls and Group Chats) | $13,000 – $19,000 |
5. Support and Maintenance
Post-launch support is critical for app stability, bug repairs, upgrades, and feature additions. Regular maintenance guarantees compatibility with OS updates and evolving user requirements. Ongoing expenditures can range between 15-20% of the initial development budget per year, making it a major determinant in long-term app success and user pleasure.
| Maintenance Phase | Cost Estimation |
| Simple Maintenance Phase | $2,000 – $4,000/year |
| Complex Maintenance Phase | $7,000 – $9,000/year |
5 Money-Making Techniques of Apps Like WhatsApp
Many messaging applications are free to use, but they generate significant cash through a variety of monetization tactics. Here are five popular revenue-generating tactics utilized by chatting applications such as WhatsApp:
1. Business API Services
WhatsApp has a Business API, which enables medium and big enterprises to engage with customers at scale. Companies pay per message sent, particularly for customer assistance and notifications. Chat apps like WhatsApp for business is very effective for transactional messaging, appointment reminders, and customer service, allowing WhatsApp to commercialize business-to-business communication.
2. WhatsApp Business App
The basic WhatsApp Business app is free, but it sets the framework for monetization. Small companies use the program to create shops, automate messages, and interact with customers. As we discussed earlier with the Android app development company UAE, WhatsApp may provide premium features or subscription-based enhancements, generating consistent revenue from micro-businesses.
3. Click-to-Message Advertisements
WhatsApp interfaces with Facebook (Meta) to allow Click-to-WhatsApp advertisements. These advertisements appear on Facebook or Instagram, redirecting users to a WhatsApp discussion. Businesses pay for ad placement, while WhatsApp benefits indirectly from Meta’s advertising ecosystem. It’s an effective tool for lead generation and customer conversion.
4. In-App Payment Services
Some regions accept WhatsApp Pay, which enables users to send and receive money directly from the app. According to the mobile app development company, future revenue opportunities include transaction fees, partnerships with financial institutions, and the provision of premium financial tools.
5. Subscription Plans (Future Potential)
Though WhatsApp is free to use, it may provide optional subscription-based products for increased functionality, such as cloud storage for conversation backups, enhanced analytics for businesses, or customization tools. Secure alternatives to WhatsApp enables commercialization while maintaining the primary free experience.
Conclusion
Developing an app like WhatsApp requires careful planning, the right tech stack, and a skilled development team. Focus on core features like real-time messaging, security, and scalability. Prioritize user experience, test thoroughly, and plan for continuous updates.
With the right strategy and execution, you can build a powerful, competitive messaging app tailored to your audience’s needs.
If you want to create an app like WhatsApp, then connect to a social networking app development company in Dubai to receive affordable solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Much Does It Cost To Develop An App Like WhatsApp?
The cost to build an app like WhatsApp can cost between $8,000 to $25,000, depending on features, platforms, design complexity, development team location, and backend infrastructure requirements.
2. How Much Time Does It Take To Make An App Like WhatsApp?
To make an app like WhatsApp, it typically takes 3 to 6 months, depending on features, platforms (iOS, Android), team size, development approach, and whether it’s built from scratch or using frameworks.
3. What Technologies Are Used to Develop An App Like WhatsApp?
WhatsApp uses technologies like Erlang for backend, XMPP for messaging, and protocols like WebRTC for voice/video. You can also use React Native, Node.js, Firebase, and Twilio alternatives.
4. How Can I Create My Own WhatsApp?
To create your own WhatsApp, define core features, choose a tech stack, design UI/UX, develop frontend and backend, integrate messaging protocols, ensure security, test thoroughly, and deploy on app stores.
5. How Do I Ensure Data Privacy and Security?
Ensure data privacy by implementing end-to-end encryption, using secure protocols (SSL/TLS), strong authentication (2FA, OAuth), regular security audits, complying with privacy laws (GDPR, CCPA), and storing minimal user data.
