How to Build an App Like TextNow?

“In the digital age, messaging apps are the bridges that connect hearts and minds across the virtual landscape.” – Elon Musk.

Are you prepared to take on the fast-paced field of app development? This post will help if you’ve ever wondered how to build an app like TextNow. We’ll walk you through the crucial stages in this blog post to realize your idea and develop a communication platform that can compete with TextNow’s features.

Building an app like TextNow requires a strategic approach and a solid understanding of the key features that make such applications successful. From designing a user-friendly interface to implementing robust messaging and calling features, we’ll unravel the intricacies of the development process.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned mobile app developer looking to expand your skill set, our comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and insights needed to embark on this exciting journey to build an app like TextNow.

So, let’s begin.

What is a TextNow App?

TextNow is a messaging application that offers free phone calls and texting with a dedicated number. Users may use the app over Wi-Fi without a cellular subscription, send and receive messages, and even make calls. Voicemail, call forwarding, and customized voicemail greetings are among its functions.

TextNow is available on various platforms, including iOS, Android, and the web. It’s famous for its cost-effective communication solutions, particularly for individuals seeking affordable or accessible alternatives to traditional phone plans. So, if you plan to build an app like TextNow, hire a mobile app development company.

Current Market Stats of TextNow App

• The global instant messaging app market is projected to reach USD 41230 million by 2030, growing at a 9.3% compound annual growth rate.
• With an improvement of almost 22 and 18 percentage points, respectively, TextNow and Life360 came next.
• With about 16 million dollars in income from in-app purchases, the mobile instant messaging service was the best-earning mobile messenger application in June 2023.
• As of July 2021, the free texting and calling app from TextNow has been downloaded over 200 million times globally.
• The number of active monthly users on Textnow hit 16 million in 2018.
• According to the number of downloads, Textnow was one of the most popular social networking applications in the US and Canadian App Stores as of April 2021.

Steps to Build an App Like TextNow

Building a mobile app like TextNow can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor, allowing you to provide a valuable service to users and potentially generate revenue. While the process may seem daunting, it can be developed by hiring iPhone app developers from the agency. Here are the crucial steps that you must follow when you build an app like TextNow:

1. Define Your App’s Purpose and Features

Start by clearly defining the purpose of your app and the features it will offer before you build an app like TextNow. TextNow provides free texting and calling using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology. Decide whether your app will have similar features or if you want to add unique functionalities.

2. Choose the Right Technology Stack

Choosing the right technology stack is essential for developing messaging apps like TextNow. For a communication app like TextNow, you’ll likely need technologies for real-time messaging, VoIP, and user authentication. Consider utilizing WebRTC for audio and video calling, Firebase for real-time data synchronization, and React Native for cross-platform development.

3. Design the User Interface

Create a user-friendly and visually appealing interface to build an app like TextNow. Pay attention to the design elements, considering the intuitive navigation and ease of use. TextNow has a straightforward design with a focus on messaging and calling features. Use wireframes and prototypes to plan the user flow and get feedback before finalizing the design.

4. Develop the TextNow App

Start the development process based on your chosen technology stack and design. However, you must hire dedicated developers with expertise in creating apps with the latest technology.

Divide the development into sprints, focusing on different features in each sprint. Implement text messaging, voice calling, user authentication, and contact management. Ensure that the app is scalable and can handle a growing user base.

5. Implement Real-time Communication

For a TextNow-like app, real-time communication is crucial. Use WebSockets and other technologies to provide real-time communications and enable immediate message delivery. For voice calling, integrate VoIP technology, considering factors like call quality and connection stability. Thoroughly test these features to ensure a seamless communication experience.

6. Test and Launch

To ensure the stability and security of the app:

1. Thoroughly test it to find and repair errors.
2. Make sure compatibility is maintained by testing on various hardware and operating systems.
3. Once testing is complete, launch the app on the App Store and Google Play.
4. Listen to user feedback, and be prepared to release updates to enhance functionality and address any issues.

Must-have Features to Build an App Like TextNow  

Key elements must be carefully considered to build an app like TextNow that offers a flawless user experience. Let’s now examine the essential aspects that must be included in any software developed similarly to TextNow:

1. Free Text and Call Services:

The core functionality of TextNow Android app development is providing free text and call services. Users should be able to send texts and call other app users for free, promoting user engagement and making the app a viable alternative to traditional communication methods.

2. Cross-Platform Compatibility:

To maximize the user base, your app must be compatible with various platforms such as iOS and Android. Maintaining a uniform user experience across multiple devices guarantees that users may transition between them without interrupting their data or communication history.

3. Voicemail and Call Forwarding:

With the assistance of a messaging app development company, you must include voicemail and call-forwarding features to enhance the app’s functionality. Users should be able to receive voicemails, customize their greetings, and forward calls to other numbers when necessary. These features make the app more versatile and appealing to users with diverse communication needs.

4. Custom Phone Numbers:

Allowing users to choose and customize their phone numbers adds a personalized touch to the app. This feature especially appeals to those who want a specific area code or a number that is easy to remember. It also adds an element of privacy for users who may wish to keep their primary phone number private.

5. International Calling and Texting:

To cater to a global audience, incorporate international calling and texting capabilities. This feature expands the app’s user base and is crucial for users who want to stay connected with friends and family abroad without incurring high costs.

6. Integration with Contacts and Social Media:

Seamless integration with contacts and social media platforms enhances user convenience. Users should be able to import their contacts easily, see who else in their network is using the app, and share updates or invite friends through social media channels. This feature fosters a sense of community within the app.

7. Multimedia Messaging:

With the aid of a TextNow app development company, include multimedia messaging features that enable users to send messages that contain photos, videos, and audio in addition to text. This feature makes communication easier overall and keeps users using the app for other things, including sharing media material or finding new creative ways to express themselves.

8. In-App Purchases and Premium Plans:

Monetize your app by offering in-app purchases and premium plans. Consider providing additional features when you build an app like TextNow, such as ad-free usage, more customization options, or enhanced call quality for users who opt for premium plans. This revenue stream can support the app’s ongoing development and maintenance.

9. Security and Privacy Measures:

Prioritize the security and privacy of user data. Implement end-to-end encryption for messages and calls to keep user communications confidential. Give people the option to modify their privacy settings so they can decide who may contact them and access their data.

Top 5 Messaging Apps Like TextNow

1. WhatsApp

WhatsApp is a top-rated messaging app. It’s easy to use and connects users across the world. It has many features, including end-to-end encrypted messages, group chats, voice and video calling, file sharing, and other communication tools. WhatsApp offers seamless communication and enhanced connectivity within a secure and ad-free platform. So, if you want to build a messaging app like TextNow, then you must consult with a social media app development company.

2. Signal

Signal is a private messaging app that has become increasingly popular due to its high-quality security and privacy features. Signal is the platform for those who want to communicate safely and securely with their friends, colleagues, and family. The intuitive interface allows for seamless communication across all devices. This includes text, voice, audio, video, and file sharing.

3. Telegram

Telegram, a top-notch cloud-based messaging application that offers fast and secure communication, is the best choice for individuals or businesses looking for a reliable and efficient messaging platform. With its emphasis on privacy and security and unique features like customizable chat groups and file sharing, Telegram is the ideal messaging platform for businesses and individuals.

4. Viber

Viber is an application for messaging and VoIP that allows seamless communication via high-quality voice calls, instant messages, and multimedia file sharing. Viber’s user-friendly interface, compatibility with multiple platforms, and end-to-end encrypted communication allow users to connect with family and friends, locally and internationally, securely.

5. Snapchat

Snapchat is an app for multimedia messaging that lets users send and receive “Snaps” (short-lived photos and videos). With innovative features like filters, lenses, and geotags, Snapchat has revolutionized how people share and connect with friends.

Cost to Build an App Like TextNow

The cost to build an app like TextNow ranges between $10,000 and $25,000, depending on the app’s complexity. To give you a clear idea, we’ve divided the cost into two parts: a timeline with features and monetary costs.

Note that this is just a general outline, and features can vary widely based on the needs and goals to build an app like TextNow. The specific characteristics of a TextNow-like application can differ significantly depending on what the app is intended to do and how the user wants it.

Other factors include the complexity of an app, its platform, and the team’s capabilities. Here’s a formula for calculating the TextNow app development cost.

Total Mobile App Development Cost Estimate = Development Time x Cost Per Hour

However, if you want to know the actual cost estimation of TextNow app development, it is essential to consult an on-demand app development company that can provide an accurate development cost and time.

Conclusion

Creating an app like TextNow requires a strategic blend of innovation and technical expertise. From designing a user-friendly interface to implementing robust communication features, the journey demands skilled app developers to build an app like TextNow.

To embark on this venture successfully, you must hire Android app developers with a proven track record in crafting dynamic and secure applications. Their expertise will be instrumental in bringing your TextNow-inspired app to life.

FAQ

1. How Long Does it Take to Build an App Like TextNow?

Many factors, such as complexity, features, team experience, and development methodology, influence how long it takes to build an app like TextNow. Two to three months for a simple version and four to six months or longer for a more complicated one.

2. What Are the Benefits of Creating an App Like TextNow?

Creating an app like TextNow offers benefits such as affordable communication, flexibility in messaging, and privacy. It offers users a cost-effective call and text alternative leveraging Wi-Fi or data. Additionally, it enables anonymous communication and supports diverse devices, enhancing accessibility and user convenience.

3. How Does An App Like TextNow Make Money?

TextNow makes money through a freemium model. It offers free texting and calling with ads, while users can pay for an ad-free experience and additional features. Premium subscriptions, in-app purchases for virtual phone numbers, and partnerships with carriers for data usage contribute to TextNow’s revenue.

4. What Are the Advanced Features to Build an App Like TextNow?

To build an app like TextNow, incorporate advanced features like VOIP calls, real-time messaging, multimedia sharing, customizable phone numbers, call forwarding, group messaging, end-to-end encryption, cloud synchronization, and integration with emerging technologies like AI-driven chatbots.