What AI powers the app cost estimator?

The app cost estimator uses advanced AI models like GPT-4o-mini and GPT-4o (for more complex projects). Additionally, we use DALLE-3 for visual design assistance, ensuring even the design aspects are factored into the estimate accurately. These models are designed to process large amounts of data and deliver highly accurate cost estimates. Trained on data from tens of thousands of completed projects, they have the knowledge and insights to provide reliable and precise projections. By leveraging these AI models, we ensure that each estimate is customized to reflect the specific complexity and scale of your app, providing you with a more precise and actionable cost estimate.

How accurately does the app cost calculator provide the estimate?

Accuracy depends on the details you provide, but our tool uses project data from 10,685 completed apps (Ptolemay partners & Upwork, 2025). With good input, your estimate is usually within 5–10% of what you'd pay in a real contract. AI helps cut estimation errors by up to 95% compared to manual guesswork. Watch the 60-second demo ▶

How can I use the results from the app cost calculator?

The results from the pricing tool are super useful for a few key things: Nail down your budget to avoid surprises, pitch to investors with solid financial plans, build the right team by identifying necessary roles, prioritize must-have MVP features, and move faster by obtaining a solid number in minutes. The calculator helps you plan your budget, pitch better, and build your app smarter and faster so you can confidently develop your solution.

How is my app idea protected?

When you use our app cost calculator, your idea is safe. The calculator is fully automated, and we don't store or share any details about your project unless you decide to work directly with our team. Most of an app's success comes down to execution—like marketing, partnerships, hiring, business models, and sales—rather than the idea itself.

How does the app cost estimator assist with technicalspecifications?

Our app cost estimator sets the stage for your Scope of Work (SoW), which is key when you're putting together technical specs. It provides a clear feature breakdown, identifies the best tech stack for your project, outlines phased development stages, suggests team roles you need to fill, and gives precise cost and time estimates. This blueprint ensures smooth collaboration with your app development company.

How much does it cost to create an app?

The cost to develop an app depends on its features, complexity, and platform. Basic apps cost $30,000–$70,000, complex apps start at $90,000, and AI-powered apps range from $30,000 to $150,000. Learn more from our comprehensive guide to avoid unexpected expenses.

Is it cheaper to build an app or website?

Developing a website is usually cheaper than building a mobile app. Websites work across devices without specific platform requirements, while mobile apps often need separate development for iOS and Android. Cross-platform development tools like Flutter and React Native can reduce costs for apps.

How much does it cost to maintain and run an app?

App maintenance and running costs typically range from $220 to $500 per month. This includes hosting fees ($20–$60/month), push notifications ($10/month), payment gateways (up to $149/month), and app store fees ($25 one-time or $99/year). Budget around 20% of your app development cost annually for updates and support.

Is Mobile App Development Still Profitable in 2025?

Yes, mobile app development is highly profitable. The global app market is projected to reach $781.7 billion by 2029. Monetization strategies like in-app purchases, subscriptions, and ads continue to generate strong returns.

How much does it cost to build an app with AI?

Developing an AI-powered app can cost between $30,000 and $150,000, depending on its complexity. Basic AI apps cost $30,000–$60,000, intermediate apps range from $60,000–$120,000, and advanced apps with custom algorithms exceed $120,000.

How much does it cost to hire someone to build an app?

The cost to hire developers varies. Freelancers charge $20,000–$60,000, agencies $40,000–$150,000, and in-house teams cost over $100,000 per year. Hourly rates differ by region: $50–$200/hour in the U.S. and $30–$70/hour in Europe or Asia.

Is it profitable to make Android apps?

Yes, Android apps can be highly profitable. Android holds 70% of the global smartphone market, offers low publishing costs ($25 one-time), and provides multiple monetization options like ads and in-app purchases.

What is the best software for app development?

The best software depends on your app type. Flutter and React Native are great for cross-platform apps, while Swift with Xcode is best for iOS, and Kotlin with Android Studio is ideal for Android. Web apps benefit from Angular, React.js, or Vue.js.

Can you make iOS apps for free?

Yes, you can create iOS apps for free using Xcode. However, publishing them on the App Store requires a $99/year Apple Developer account. Free tools and templates can help keep costs low.

What Type of App Makes the Most Money?

Gaming apps are the undisputed leaders, pulling in over half of global app revenues through in-app purchases and ads. Entertainment apps like Netflix and Disney+ aren’t far behind, thriving on subscription models. Social media platforms also rake in billions with ad revenue and premium features, while finance apps and fitness apps steadily grow thanks to increasing user demand. The key to success? Pick the right niche and nail your monetization strategy.

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Here’s what you’ll get:

✅ Budget Breakdown
✅ Project Timeline
✅ Feature List
✅ Design (via DALLE-3)
✅ Tech Stack
✅ Required Team Composition
✅ Compliance

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Just went through it and it's an amazing document congrats on promising AI tool. Definitely entails everything we are working on and highlighted some features I hadn't named before.

Otto LehnertBusiness Development I Co-Founder I ex-Google

This calculator is fantastic. It offered us a realistic price range and helped us pitch our project confidently to stakeholders.

Jessica MillerMarketing Director

The calculator provided a comprehensive overview of the technical requirements and costs, making our decision-making process much smoother.

Michael BrownCTO

Ptolemay’s cost calculator made it way easier to plan. It gave me a clear budget and timeline, and helped us stay on track. Definitely a solid tool!

Ronan WexlerProduct Manager

The cost calculator really helped me get things moving. It broke everything down perfectly, and thanks to it, I raised $150K and got 10K users in three months. Super useful if you're launching an app.

Elise NovakStartup Founder

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