The above statistics are proof that dating apps, as a business, provide a lucrative opportunity to generate revenue. However, before getting into the process of developing a dating app solution, you must be aware of the basics.
In this article, we will discuss the fundamental aspects of making a dating app. That will make it easier for you to make significant business decisions.
Why to Make a Dating App
1. Fast and Efficient
The main reason why many people, especially youngsters, like dating apps is because of their fast and efficient nature. They can use the app anywhere, while traveling, while waiting for a cab, while taking a break from work, etc. The feature that makes it the most efficient is gamification.
Tinder started it, and it became so popular that other dating apps copied it. The swipe left/right feature is now synonymous with dating app development solutions. The reason for its success is that it makes the experience of online dating enjoyable and quick.
2. Best for Busy People
The second best thing about dating apps is that they are available 24X7. That makes it convenient for people who don’t get much time to indulge in traditional dating methods. Also, the online nature breaks all the physical barriers of dating.
Apart from that, online dating apps act as a boon for introverts too. Since dating apps already list the interests and hobbies of people, they can act as an icebreaker. So a dating app solution also comes to the rescue of those people who are not comfortable in making the first move.
3. No Unwanted Connections
Dating apps give the option to users to stay connected with or block certain users. Users appreciate the flexibility that dating apps provide them. However, there are many users who “ghost” or break contact with users if they no longer find them interesting. This breaks the self-esteem of ghosted users and gives rise to anxiety and depression.
If you build your dating app, you should keep in mind this menace, along with giving users the freedom to choose who they want to stay connected to.
4. Large User Base = Improved Chances
In traditional dating, it takes time to find a date. Then it takes a few days or weeks to get to know that person. If someone doesn’t find their date interesting, it might seem that all the effort was a waste of time. Then they have to start again with the entire process.
This is another place where dating apps play a significant role.
The large user base makes sure that users never run short of potential dates. The advanced algorithm helps users get matched with the most relevant and compatible person based on their interests. This also improves the user’s chances of getting matched.
Steps to Make a Dating App
1. Research the Market
Due to the rising popularity of online dating, there are a lot of users for many categories. Therefore, we have seen the rise of dating app development that caters to a particular audience lately. You must also study the market and decide if you want to make a generic app or a niche-centric app.
2. Choose the Features
You need to decide which features you want to integrate into your app. Make sure that you don’t add a lot of features. That will make the app costly and difficult for users to understand. Hence, you must start small and build from the feedback you receive from users.
3. Determine the Development Cost
If you create a dating app, the cost of developing it will depend on the features that you want to integrate. The more features you add, the more complicated the app will get, and the development cost will increase.
That’s why it is vital to finalize the features of the app to determine the development cost. You will be able to adjust your budget accordingly.
4. Decide Monetization Strategy
Having a premium paid model from the beginning may not go down well with the users. You can launch the app with free features, but when you gather a loyal user base, add paid features. That will be how you will generate revenue.
There are other ways to make money from the app, which we will discuss later in the article.
5. Finalize Your Tech Stack and UI/UX Design
This is the most important part of making the dating app. You need to carefully select the tech stack for your app on the basis of the features and services you wish to offer. Also, you must design a wireframe for your app to check how it will look and function.
You can hire dating app developers to help you with this step.
6. Launch an MVP
The Minimum Viable Product (MVP) can help you understand user behavior and response towards your dating app. Also, it will aid you in determining what changes you need to make and if the app is making the right impact.
How to Monetize a Dating App
There are many ways through which you can earn money through your dating app. We have listed the most common ways of monetizing the app.
Paid/Premium Subscription
The most common way for a dating app solution to make money is to offer a membership plan. Users can pay a monthly or yearly subscription fee to access the app’s premium features. Paid features assist users in standing out from the crowd and being more prominent.
You can offer an alternate approach by giving bundles with different plans offering different features. Therefore, users can select the one that best suits their needs. To enhance revenue, you should use this monetization approach in conjunction with other monetization methods.
In-App Purchases
There are a variety of in-app purchases and customizations that can be a valuable source of money.
Gifts
You can incorporate a service that allows users to select and send appealing gifts for their dates. That is a good way to make money if you make a dating app. Thus, you can open your own virtual gift shop and offer services on the dating app.
In-App Upgrades
It is essential for users to communicate effectively with their potential dates. Therefore, charging a small fee for the use of a chat feature is a reasonable choice. Text, voice, or video chat are some of the communication methods you can make available to your users.
Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing is a fantastic way to make money, particularly if your dating app solution has a lot of users. It involves displaying advertisements for other businesses on your app. You will receive a commission every time a user views the ad, clicks on it, or purchases something through that link.
Also, collaborating with service providers such as restaurant owners, gift shops, florists, etc, is a great way to promote their products. You must check to see if those products or services are appropriate for your app.
In Conclusion
So now that you know the benefits, steps, and monetization methods, you will be able to make a dating app. However, you still need someone who is well-versed in the technical aspects.
The developers of our dating app development company will understand your vision for the app and bring them to life. All you need to do is contact us, and our experts will get back to you for a discussion.
