Every day, you scroll, double-tap, share memes, post stories, and maybe even go viral on social media platforms. But have you ever stopped and thought: Why am I just using social apps when I could build one myself?
If this idea has crossed your mind, you’re not alone. The fear of missing out (FOMO) on the next big thing in tech is real and it’s valid.
Some of the world’s most-used apps started as just simple ideas. TikTok started of as a short-form video app in China. Instagram began with photos and filters. And now, they dominate the online space and how.
So, what’s stopping you from creating the next social app that people can’t stop using?
If you’re curious, this guide is made just for you. We’ll walk you through how to make a social media app, why social media app development is still a smart idea, what types are out there, the must-have features, and a simple step-by-step guide to building your own.
Why Make a Social Media App in 2025?
Some of you might be wondering, “Do we really another social media app when Tiktok, Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat already exists?”
Honestly, a 100% YES!
We will explain you why:
According to Statistica, in 2025, the social media users are estimated to reach 5.42 billion users. This number is only expected to increase with more frequent use of mobile phones and social media apps in the previously underserved populations. That’s a massive pool of people looking for new ways to connect, express, and interact.
Also, with the rise of niche communities for literally anything is changing how people use social media. Whether it’s tech nerds, booktok, Star Wars enthusiasts, coders, gym rats, gamers, trad wife and whatnot. People use such social media platforms to connect socially and become famous in their niche. What does this mean for us? It means if you create something for a community, people automatically feel seen and heard.
Moreover, we can’t possibly ignore the impact of influencer campaigns on brands’ reach and audience. Therefore, influencer marketing by brands is another reason. Social media apps like Instagram and TikTok are like digital store for such influencers and brands. Therefore, a well-designed app gives an additional platform and audience to both the biz and social media influencers.
Lastly, the father of it all, technology. Now with tools like AI and AR becoming more common, it’s easier than ever to make something that feels fresh and exciting.
Bottom line? People are looking for new social media apps, and your app can be the next big social media app!
What Kinds of Social Media Apps Can You Build?
The term social media apps is quiet frankly broad. Lets divide it into 5 easily understandable categories:
- Social networks: Apps like Facebook that help users connect, post updates, and follow friends.
- Content-sharing apps: Think Youtube, TikTok or Instagram, where people share videos, reels, and stories.
- Messaging apps: WhatsApp and Telegram fall here where people are chatting, sending voice notes and group messages.
- Professional networks: Like LinkedIn or Indeed, for career growth and business connections.
- Community-based forums: Reddit and Quora let people ask, answer, and discuss in topic-based groups.
So, if you are entering this social media app development, knowing your category will be very helpful. In this way, you can shape your app’s features that users want and the type of experience you want to give to your users.
Must-Have Features in Your Social App
Now that we have discussed the social media app categories, let’s talk about the important features of social media apps that your app must include.
- User Profiles: These are the face of your users. Let them upload profile photos, write a short bio, and tweak settings. Think of it as their home base within your app.
- Content Posting: Whether it’s photos, videos, or status updates, users need an easy way to post. A smooth, fun upload process keeps them engaged.
- Likes & Comments: Engagement matters. By allowing users to like, react, or comment on posts, you turn viewers into participants.
- Direct Messaging (DMs): Give users a private space to talk. Whether it’s one-on-one or in a group, messaging adds real value and increases app usage.
- Notifications: These little reminders bring users back. Whether it’s “someone liked your post” or “you’ve got a new message,” alerts keep people coming back.
- Privacy Settings: Trust is everything. Let users control who sees what, block people, or set their profiles to private.
- Search & Discovery: Help users find new people, trending content, or communities. A powerful search tool improves the overall experience.
Together, these features form the backbone of most successful apps. So you should just start with these basics. Eventually, you can add more features as your app grows based on real user feedback.
How to Make a Social Media App?
You don’t have to be a tech person to start working on a social media app. Here’s process for your social media app development simplified:
Step 1: Planning Your Idea
Just start with your app vision. Ask yourself these questions:
- Who is this app for?
- What problem does it solve?
- What makes it different from existing apps?
This is called the discovery phase. You’re defining the purpose and direction of your app before being the social media app builder.
Step 2: Choose Core Features
Make a list of your app’s core features. Keep it tight and focused. Instead of launching with everything, pick a few must-haves. This becomes your MVP (Minimum Viable Product) which is a simple version of your app you can test.
For example:
- Signup/Login screen
- User profiles
- Post creation
- Basic news feed
Once this MVP is working, you can add more features later.
Step 3: Design the User Experience
Design is more than colors and fonts. It’s how users feel when using your app.
Start with wireframes which are basic sketches that map out each screen. Then move to UI/UX design where things get polished. Your goal is to just keep it simple and make it easy for the people!
If people have to search too hard to post or find something, they will probably just leave. What’s the solution? You have to make everything simple and easy to use.
Step 4: Start Development
Now, it’s time to code. There are two major parts:
- Backend: Handles data, user accounts, security, and how everything connects
- Frontend: What your user see on their screen (design of the app and buttons)
In this step, you can choose a tech stack that compliments your app’s vision. You can either hire devs or use a social media app maker. Moreover, you can also outsource it to a professional team.
Step 5: Test and Launch
Before launching, test your app with real people. Check for bugs, crashes, or confusing parts. You should fix what you can.
Then, launch it on the App Store (Apple) and Google Play (Android). You have to make sure your app meets all guidelines for approval.
Step 6: Grow and Improve
Launch is only the start. Keep listening to user feedback.
Add new features, fix bugs quickly, and make small updates often. Apps that grow listen to users and evolve constantly.
What About the Cost of Your Social Media App?
Making a social media app isn’t cheap, but you can cut down a good amount of costs by being a little smart.
A basic MVP can range anywhere from $30,000 to $60,000. Whereas, a full-featured app might go up to $200,000 or even more.
Here are some ways to save your app dev costs:
- Start with an MVP: Launch fast, get feedback, and then build from there.
- Be Adaptable: Build in small steps. Test and improve as you go.
- Outsource: Hiring developers in countries like Pakistan or Ukraine can cut costs without hurting quality.
You can also think about using a social media app maker to prototype and test early concepts.
Also, include budget for ongoing support: hosting, bug fixes, updates, and customer support.
What Makes a Social App Succeed in 2025?
There are a lot of social media apps around the block but only few ones really stick with the people. What makes them special?
- They build real communities: Users feel like they belong.
- They’re easy to use: No one likes a clunky app.
- They update often: Staying fresh keeps people interested.
- They run fast and smooth: No bugs = happy users.
Last but not least, don’t skip on your social media app promotion. Use social media influencers, early-access invites, or referral bonuses for your first users. So, whether you are an individual or a startup team, being on the lookout for social media app trends and tools is where it’s at.
The secret sauce? Success comes from listening to your users, solving problems and improving your app constantly.
Final Thoughts
Seriously, just think about it. A person uses approximately seven social media apps per day. What’s stopping you from creating an app that could be one of the seven most-used social media apps? All it takes is that one idea, a bit of guts, and the right team to help you create it.
Because let’s be real. Social media app development is just about some really fancy code or features. It’s about creating something that truly connects other people. Something they just can’t stop using. Something that makes them say, “Wait, why didn’t I think of it sooner?”
You don’t need all the answers today. All you need is to start. Whether you are playing around with a social media app creator or looking for expert devs of social networking app development, you have got options. Here’s where we come into the picture!
At Linkitsoft, we have helped turn great ideas into successful apps that people love. Maybe, your social media app is next. Connect with us to create something scroll-worthy!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Build a Social Media App?
You can team up with developers, hire an app dev company or even use a social media app builder to get started. You should obviously know how it works in theory to create something worthwhile for the people.
How Long Does It Take To Make A Social App?
It depends on how big your app is. A simple version (MVP) might take 2–4 months. A full-featured one can take 6 months or more.
How Much Money Do I Need To Build My Social Media App?
A basic app can cost around $30,000 to $60,000. A more advanced one might go over $200,000. You can start small and grow over time to save money.
Can I Make Money From My Social Media App?
Yes! You can earn through ads, premium features, in-app purchases, or even by working with influencers and brands.
What If My Idea Has Already Been Done?
That’s okay! Most great ideas are versions of something that already exists, just with a new twist. Just focus on what makes your app special or more helpful!
