Should You Build a Social App Like MeWe? Costs, Features & Market Demand

In the crowded social media space, apps like MeWe stand out with their focus on user privacy and ad-free experiences. If you're considering developing a similar app, this article will break down the key features and factors that influence the cost of building a MeWe-like platform.

Traditionally, social media platforms have relied on user data for targeted advertising, raising concerns about privacy.

However, MeWe has carved a niche for itself by prioritizing user control and fostering a more organic online community.

This unique approach has resonated with a growing user base, making understanding MeWe's development cost even more relevant for those seeking an alternative social media experience.

What is MeWe?

Designed and developed by Mark Weinstein, MeWe is a free and privacy-centred social networking platform with ad-free & zero manipulation of news feed content.

It has emerged as a game changer social media application when socializing was all about browning timelines & sharing stories with Facebook friends.

After the Facebook data privacy controversy, the MeWe app became more popular. Users have greater control over their views because of the app’s ability to customize their feeds.

Users can choose what content they want to see and what they don’t. MeWe’s CEO, Mark Weinstein, also states that the app does not change, manipulate or put filters on newsfeeds.

The app gives users control and honours their preferences. MeWe can be quickly downloaded from the Apple Store or Google Play Store.

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Why is it Important to Build Similar Apps Like MeWe

There is no doubt that Facebook is the most popular and dynamic social media platform, and it has dominated the social scene ever since its initial release.

From posting pictures to managing the business, it includes a wide range of features that keep users hooked and engaged.

However, as the company changed its privacy policy, many users started realizing that the platform was endangering their privacy.

As per the recent Facebook update, the company has used an algorithm that captures and decodes your behavioural patterns to serve you manipulated content in the application.

This made Facebook a more target-based social platform that shows content that fits your preferences and habits.

After the WhatsApp and Facebook data breach controversy, people are now looking for new social media apps that are safe and secure.

MeWe, in this case, has come to the rescue and become one of the top-down-loaded social apps in the Play Store. At the time of writing this article, the app has over 20 million users, and the number is increasing every quarter.

By choosing the MeWe app development, you can build a platform that will protect users' privacy by preventing targeting, ads, and political biases.

What Makes MeWe App Different From Other Social Media Platforms

When it comes to day-to-day functionality, MeWe is not very different from other social media platforms. Its features include timelines, groups you can join, friends you can make, a built-in messaging tool, and a profile page to customize and make your own.

However, this app is unique because all these features are filtered through the lens of privacy protection. MeWe has said never to do data mining on its users or sell their data to other companies.

That puts it significantly opposed to platforms like  Facebook, which has become a significant hub of data harvesting, with arguably the site’s social functions working as a side-business to the service's primary function of selling targeted advertising.

MeWe operates on the “users pay, not advertisers” business model, as zero advertisers are associated with this app.

It’s a subscription-based social media network where users can use it for free and subscribe to it if they want access to the advanced features.

For example, to create a business page, users are required to pay $1.99 subscription costs. To gain access to additional features such as Cloud, voice and video calling, and custom emojis, they must pay $4.99 per month.

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Key Features of the MeWe Social App

If you want to build an India social media app like MeWe or determine how much MeWe app development costs, it’s essential to look into the app features.

As you add more features to your social media Mewe app, the cost of developing a MeWe-clone will automatically increase.

Here are some main features of the MeWe application that you should consider when developing a similar social media app:

1. Profile Creation

Your app needs to allow users to create their profiles and express themselves. This includes a profile creation feature that lets users enter personal information such as their name, email address, website URL, date of birth, and mobile number.

2. Authorization

An authorization system is crucial for your users' privacy and data protection. It’s a feature you must include in your MeWe clone app.

It allows users to sign up and log in through their email or phone number. Authorization also requires a mechanism for password recovery, a reset feature, security features, and other features.

3. Messaging

Messaging is an essential feature you should consider when developing a social media platform like MeWe dating app.  Your app needs to give users a messaging option so they can send multimedia files such as videos, stickers, or just text messages.

4. User Interface

You might be wondering why we’re also discussing the user interface here. Hence, the design of your social media app is as essential as the features themselves. This is what makes your app unique.

However, it’s also one of the most expensive parts of developing your social media app. When designing your user interface, ensure it is attractive and gives your users a pleasing aesthetic experience.

5. Search Function

You should also add a search feature to make your app more accessible. This will enable them to find their friend's profiles, groups of interests, and engaging posts.

6. Custom Social Cloud

With MeWe app download, users also get a social cloud feature that includes unique profiles of each group’s members.

This functionality allows users to make their communications and content disappear. Cloud storage can automatically record, store, and publish video calls with other users.

7. Tagging

The tagging feature lets users tag content in multiple categories to make searching, sorting, and finding content more accessible.

This handy social media app feature allows users to organize and filter all the content they receive. Filters make it easy for app users to find any content anytime.

8. Control of Permissions

Today’s users are very concerned about their privacy when using an app. Hence, you must add features such as complete control of permissions. This will allow users to handle and control which data is visible.

Users can even remove themselves from the application's search directory. Invisible mode lets users hide themselves from other users, whether online or offline.

9. Journals by MeWe

MeWe’s stories only have a 24-hour timeline. Still, premium customers with the Journals feature can organize, tag, save, sort, and rearrange their stories, allowing them to create lifetime memories.

This journal can be shared with other app users, family, and friends.

However, if you want to develop an app for both iOS and Android platforms and integrate these features, getting help from a hybrid mobile app development company like Arramton Infotech would be better.

10. Notifications and News Feed

As you will find this feature in many other social media platforms, the news feed is a must, as it updates users on what your family and friends are doing.

The news feed will display any new posts or events. If the app finds that users are not currently using it, a push notification will be sent to the user.

11. Dual Camera Voice and Video Call

MeWe application provides unlimited voice and video calling options to its premium users. Customers can connect to multiple users simultaneously in a voice/video call. They can also access a live-stream feature if they can pay more.

Dual-camera video calls are available in the app, allowing users to use their front and rear cameras simultaneously.

12. Groups

Users who subscribe to the app's premium version can create a group to invite others with similar interests to an open discussion.

The group is an open forum for exchanging ideas, visions, thoughts, etc. Like MeWe dating app, you can use a light-moderate content moderation policy, allowing smooth and candid interaction.

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Factors that Decide the Cost of MeWe App Development

Now that you understand why building a social media platform like MeWe is critical and some essential features you must consider, it’s finally time we delve into the MeWe app development cost.

To estimate the cost, you first need to know whether you’re building the best UPI payment app, travel app, or social media app, in this case, several factors go into the Indian social media app development process, such as platform, tech stacks, complexity, and location of the app development company you hire.

Let’s take a look at these factors in more detail to determine the cost of building an app like MeWe network:

1. App Type

You need to decide what type of app you want to create, such as a simple, on-demand, authentication, data-driven, wearable/IoT-based, or hardware-based one.

2. A Team of Dedicated Developers

For a successful social media app development, the best thing to do is hire a team of professionals with experience and skills who can create a fantastic app for iOS or Android.

The team should include strategists, testers, programmers, designers, project managers, and testers.

3. Location of the Development Team

The cost of hiring an Android and iPhone App Development Company depends on the developer’s location in India, Eastern Europe, Western Europe, and North America.

Below is the average estimate of the hourly rates of mobile app development costs in different geographical locations:

• North America: $150-$250
• Western Europe/UK: $160-$225
• Eastern Europe: $125- $140
• Middle East: $100- $115
• Australia: $90- $125
• India: $100- $220

4. Tech Stack

The tech stack is another essential factor when estimating the cost of MeWe application development. This factor affects app development costs and the application's performance.

It includes programming languages for app development, frameworks, toolkits, testing tools, etc.

Additionally, there are many different tech stacks that you can choose for your project. For example, cross-platform app development is a popular choice. You should explore other options and choose the best fit your requirements.

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5. App Designing

App designing has a significant impact on app development. Developing an app with a simple design will be less time-consuming and less experience; however, one with an intricate layout can significantly increase the cost.

6. Platform

The platform you choose also significantly estimates MeWe's costs, such as app development. When you create an app, you must choose a platform.

You can create hybrid apps that are compatible with both iOS and Android.

Depending on the platform, you should pay a certain amount to develop an app. There are two major platforms, as we are all aware. You can work with an iOS or Android application development company.

So, How Much Does MeWe App Development Really Cost?

Aside from the factors mentioned above that can influence the cost of app development like MeWe, there are also factors such as the business idea you choose, the maintenance, etc.

Hence, without knowing all these parameters, finding the exact cost of creating a social media app like MeWe is impossible.

While you can estimate the cost by considering these elements, the average price of building a social media network like MeWe ranges between $8,000 and $20000.

Now, if you are looking for an accurate cost estimate, it is highly recommended that you consult a reputable app development company that can give you more insight based on your project specifications.

Also Read: How Much Does Payment Gateway Development Cost in 2024?

How Arramton Can Help You Build a Social Media App like MeWe

Arramton Infotech is a leading app development company that caters to businesses of all sizes. The company has a vast portfolio and has worked with many well-established companies.

At Arramton, we have a team of skilled social media app developers who can turn your idea into reality.

We focus on providing tailored applications that match your business needs and requirements. Our team is capable whether you are searching for a social media app development team to build a mobile app like MeWe or any other.

They have experience creating successful platforms while keeping the cost of MeWe app development within your budget limit.

Contact us today to discuss your app development idea or know the the estimated cost of your project!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How much does it cost to develop a MeWe app?

Ans. The cost to develop a MeWe app varies depending on features. A basic app might cost $20,000-$40,000, while a featured rich app with top-notch privacy could reach $100,000+.

Q. What is the business model of MeWe?

Ans. MeWe is primarily free to use with optional paid features like extra storage. They aim to make money through subscriptions and potentially enterprise plans,  focusing on user value rather than data collection for advertising.

Q. Who created MeWe?

Ans. MeWe was launched in 2012 by Mark Weinstein. It has gained popularity in recent years as a privacy-centric alternative to other social media platforms.

Q. What's the difference between MeWe and Facebook?

Ans. MeWe prioritizes user privacy and avoids selling data. It offers an ad-free experience with a focus on user control over content. On the other hand, Facebook collects user data for targeted advertising and has a wider range of features, but with less privacy control.

Q. Why should entrepreneurs invest in MeWe like social media app development?

Ans. There's a growing demand for privacy-focused social media platforms. An app like MeWe could cater to users dissatisfied with current options and build a strong niche community. However, competition is fierce, so a well-defined user acquisition strategy is crucial.