Remember the time when men and women used to hit coffee shops or bars to find dates? Then after a decade, Match websites became famous and helped people organize dates online.
But with the birth of apps like Tinder, everything has changed. People no longer had to go out and hope to run into someone they found attractive. Instead, they could browse through the profiles of hundreds or even thousands of potential partners, message them, and set up a date.
It was a game-changer in the dating world, and it’s only become more popular in recent years. Nowadays, online dating is the norm for many people. In fact, a large majority of Americans say that online dating is an excellent way to meet people. And why wouldn’t it be?
Online dating offers so many advantages over traditional methods of meeting someone new. This is why dating app development has become a rage in current times.
Today, dating applications are helping millions of people meet their ideal partner. No wonder more and more entrepreneurs are venturing into this popular industry.
But starting a dating app is not an easy task. It requires immense dedication, hard work, and lots of money. If you have a great dating app idea but don’t know how to start, here’s your complete guide.
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Insightful Stats of Dating Apps
Source: Statista
- The worldwide online dating app market was valued at USD 7.55B in 2021 and is predicted to increase at a CAGR of 12.65% during the prediction period.
- The dating services are expected to generate $3.7 billion in revenue worldwide via paid subscriptions.
- The USA has the highest dating app development market penetration rate of 15.7 percent, with a market size of $829M, producing the maximum revenue worldwide.
The eMarketer report from August 2020 displays the estimated dynamics of smartphone dating application users as follows:
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Types of Dating Apps
To be exact more than 1000 dating portals get created every year. As mentioned in the stats, they are not limited to finding dates or love. People use dating apps for having fun, as a leisure activity, to find friends, and many more.
An Android or iOS application development company can integrate multiple features to develop an innovative dating app that suits your business and marketing strategy.
Overall we can say that multiple types of dating apps can be developed to reach a larger target audience. Let’s have a look at the four main types:
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Proximity-Based Dating Apps
These dating apps offer the app users to view and connect with profiles located nearby to his/her geolocation. Thus, they provide a higher potential of developing a good bond among their users.
Grindr, an LGBT-based dating mobile app, is an excellent example of a proximity-based dating app. As per Reuters, the Grindr app was sold for $620 million by its Chinese owner recently. With an audience size of 1.64 million in the U.S., Grindr ranks among the most-used dating apps.
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Matching Algorithm-Based Dating App
These apps work on creating matches among the users based on their common choices, fields of interest, etc. During first-time registration, the users are presented with multiple queries and asked to opt for fields of interest. The software then uses its database to offer potent matches to the user.
Tinder is a renowned worldwide used app that works to offer the best match to the users.
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Game-Based Dating App
Online dating is taken to a whole new level with game-based dating apps. Offering games successfully boosts the engaging nature of the app and also acts as a common point of interest among the users.
Overall a game-based dating app allows users to connect with potential dates via texts, voice calls, video calls, etc. Hago is a renowned example of a game-based dating app where strangers connect over a playful match over the mobile screen.
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Niche Based Dating App
A niche-based dating app effectively reduces the overall competition in the market as it is created for a particular audience. On the downside, it suffers from a limited number of users.
A dating app specially meant for senior citizens, dog lovers, etc., is a niche-based dating app. Some of the popular niche-based dating platforms include Tindog, SeniorMatch, etc.
Having covered the major types of dating apps, let us now look at the essential features of any dating app.
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Here are the Features of an Advanced Dating App
Quick and Simple Sign-Up: The sign-up section of the app must allow users to quickly register via social media profiles, email-id, or contact numbers.
User Profile Creation: Based on the type of app, dating app user must receive an intuitive interface to upload the following information about him/her
- Nickname
- Self-description
- Age
- Gender
- Weight
- Ethnicity
- Relationship status
- Fields of interest
Much more information can be added under the profile-creation section of dating apps. However, it is essential that the entrusted android app development company develops options for users to show or hide personal information as per comfort.
Geolocation Navigation: Dating apps that allow users to connect with profiles of nearby locations and enjoy an edge in the competitive online dating market. It allows users to share, receive, and navigate locations for actual meet-ups and dates.
Multiple filters: Users must have access to search profiles by filtering them as per their likings and preferences. Some of the standard filters used in dating apps are currently online, fields of interest, age limits, ethnicity, etc.
Handling Connectivity requests: A person navigating through the app must be able to connect with others via accepting, sending, or rejecting requests, all with simple taps. To effectively deal with notorious users, dating apps also offer blocking options.
Match Feeds: This app section allows users to view and connect with those he/she has matched over the app.
Chat & Calls: The communication section of the app must offer chats and calling (both voice and video calls) services. Integrating love emojis, catchy phrases, gifs, etc., are essential for offering a high UX to online lovers.
Social Media Integration: Dating apps that allow users to share social media profiles of Facebook, Instagram, etc., facilitate faster bond development among users. It also boosts the credibility of the app among the user.
Trusted Payment Options: Integrating popular payment options over the application enhances conversion. Based on its model, the app may charge the user for accessing advanced features or at the end of the trial period.
Rewards & Offers: A dating app gets successful only when it has garnered many users. So it is essential to offer a bonus to the existing & new users of the app.
Admin Dashboard: The app’s dashboard is for the administrator and the managing committee of the app. It allows the app administrator to perform multiple tasks over the dating app.
The main activities that are done using the dashboard include the following:
- Managing Notifications
- Verifying the user’s profile request
- Offering discounts
- Managing memberships; offers, and packages
- Running ads in case of the free app model
- Engaging in email marketing activities
- Content management of the app.
- Viewing reports
- Data Analytics
We at PixelCrayons customize the app’s dashboard per the client’s needs and requirements.
Monetizing Strategies of Your Mobile Dating App
Like any other mobile app, the dating app can get monetized in multiple ways. You can earn revenue out of your dating app in the following ways:
In-App Advertisements: It is the most common way of generating revenue from any mobile app. Once your app has reached many users, in-app advertisements become a viable option for earning profits.
Paid subscription of the app: Many successful dating apps allow or unlock several advanced features when users opt for a paid subscription. It is like selling the app over itself.
For example, proximity-based apps like Grindr allow viewers to reach and access unlimited profiles, multiple filters, etc., in its paid version.
Similarly, the matching algorithm-based app Tinder allows users with unlimited swipes and other features in its paid subscription model.
In-app Purchase: Users are often interested in buying only one or a few of the app’s advanced features. Thus, instead of offering only a full-time subscription, the app can be designed and developed to sell exclusive features.
F.Y.I.: Tinder sells both complete subscriptions and exclusive features to users.
eCommerce Integration: The mobile dating app can be integrated with eCommerce features to send gifts to each other. It is essential to isolate the eCommerce section with a separate icon to ensure zero glitches in the app’s main functionalities.
Also Read: Mobile App Monetization in 2022: What You Need to know?
How much does it cost to develop a dating app?
A mobile app’s cost is influenced mainly by its number of features, complexity level, and development time. Its cost also depends upon the target platform and the chosen technology.
Mobile dating apps lie at mid-level of complexity and have to offer multiple features to the users. The exact cost of development is available after a detailed discussion and study of the project, but it usually lies in the following range:
| Mobile App Type | Average Price |
| Native Android Dating Mobile App | $25000 |
| Native iOS Dating Mobile App | $25000 |
| Hybrid Dating Mobile App | $45000 |
Besides, dating app development costs in India can range from $45,680 (India) to $2,74,080 (U.S.).
We at PixelCrayons, suggest cross-platform development of dating apps, as it offers a greater audience reach & comparatively lower development costs otherwise incurred in dedicated development over two platforms (Android & iOS) separately.
How to Choose the Right Dating Mobile App Development Company?
When it comes to dating app development, choosing the right company can make all the difference. There are a few things to consider when making your choice:
- Company size and scale: You’ll want to choose a company that is large enough to handle your project but not so large that it’ll be inflexible and unable to cater to your specific needs.
- Expertise and experience: Make sure the company you choose has extensive experience in developing dating apps. They should understand the unique challenges and opportunities presented by this type of app and be able to provide guidance and support throughout the development process.
- Cost: Of course, you’ll need to consider cost when choosing a dating app development company. Make sure you get quotes from multiple companies so you can compare pricing and services offered.
- Location: It’s important to choose a company that is based in a country with strong data privacy laws, like the UK or Ireland. This will ensure your users’ data is safe and secure.
Customer service: Don’t forget to consider customer service when choosing a dating app development company. You’ll want to partner with a responsive and helpful team to get the support you need during the development process.
Read Also: How To Create A Food Delivery App? Food Delivery Business Model Explained
Over to You
That was all about the diverse aspects of dating apps. As dating apps must offer high UX, you should preferably connect with a top mobile app development company in India.
Choosing an Indian firm reduces your development cost by up to 60%.
Also, when you hire mobile app developers from India, you get access to a large talent pool.
Let's connect virtually or ask for an estimate of your project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of developing a dating app?
There are many benefits to developing a dating app. A dating app can help you connect with people looking for a relationship. It can also help you find new friends and even network with other businesses. A dating app can also be a great way to meet new people and learn about their culture and lifestyle.
How long does it take to develop a dating app?
It takes about four to six weeks to develop a dating app. This development time frame assumes that the app will be developed using an Agile methodology and that there are no unforeseen delays.
Are there any risks involved in developing a dating app?
There are a few key risks to keep in mind when developing a dating app:
- Data security and privacy breaches are always risks when dealing with sensitive user data. Ensure your app is built with robust security features and a clear data privacy policy in place.
- Another risk to consider is user engagement. For your app to be successful, you need to ensure users keep coming back. This means providing them with relevant content and keeping them engaged with the app through notifications, messaging, etc.
- Finally, you also need to be aware of the competition. There are already many dating apps on the market, so you need to make sure your app offers something unique or different that will attract users.
How to create a successful dating app?
Creating a successful dating app can be a challenge. There are many factors to consider, such as your target market, features, and design. Here are some tips to help you create a successful dating app:
- Define your target market. Who do you want to attract with your app? This will help you determine what features to include and how to design your app.
- Include essential features. Your app should have features that appeal to your target market and make it easy for them to find matches.
- Keep it simple. Too many features or a complicated design can be off-putting for users. Keep your app straightforward and easy to use.
- Promote your app. Make sure potential users know about your app by promoting it through social media, online ads, or word of mouth.
