How Much Does it Cost to Build a Shopping App Like Temu?

The ecommerce market in the United States is on an impressive growth trajectory, with forecasts anticipating a substantial 67.47% increase in revenue between 2023 and 2028. This continuous expansion trend over the past decade is expected to propel the market to an astonishing peak of $1.5 trillion by 2028. The surge in eCommerce revenue underscores a noteworthy shift in consumer behavior towards online shopping, highlighting the industry’s remarkable success in adapting to and thriving in the digital landscape.

In the thriving eCommerce industry, numerous online retailers vie for attention. Notably, Temu stands out as a formidable competitor, boasting an impressive user base of over 404.52 million monthly users as of November 2023, according to Semrush’s traffic data. This eCommerce app has successfully attracted and retained a diverse user group, underscoring its significant influence in the competitive online shopping landscape.

For aspiring businesses and entrepreneurs looking to venture into the growing eCommerce market, the thought of developing an app akin to Temu often sparks considerations about the associated costs. This article delves into the key factors influencing the development cost to build a mobile app like Temu, providing valuable insights into the realm of eCommerce app development.

What is Temu App and Why Should Businesses Invest in an E-Commerce App Like Temu?

Te­mu, an innovative online shopping app originating from China, has revolutionized the way sellers connect with customers in the United States since its launch in September 2022. Quickly gaining popularity, it became the most downloaded app in the country. The app, known for its catchy slogan “shop like a billionaire,” has effectively employed gamification and reward systems to elevate online shopping, making it not only enjoyable but also effortlessly budget-friendly.

In November 2023, reports indicated that Temu secured an impressive 17% market share in the competitive US discount store sector, solidifying its position as a major player in the industry. For businesses contemplating investing in an app similar to Temu, the allure lies in the prospect of gaining global exposure and connecting with diverse customer groups.

Amidst the unprecedented growth of the eCommerce sector, having a dedicated app becomes crucial for enhancing a company’s visibility and accessibility. Recognizing the increasing reliance on mobile platforms for shopping, businesses that invest in a robust and user-friendly app akin to Temu strategically position themselves in the evolving digital marketplace.

Equipped with features like streamlined navigation and personalized user experiences, an app inspired by Temu enables businesses to provide an enriched shopping journey. Consequently, opting for a Temu-like app proves to be a worthwhile decision for businesses aspiring to thrive in the fiercely competitive eCommerce landscape.

Investing in an app like Temu, offers a lot of business opportunities, and also helps in exploring the business world which not only gives the businesses the exposure, but also gives them a chance to connect with different customer groups, which helps them in increasing the business opportunities. 

How Much it Cost to Build a Mobile App Like Temu?

The development cost to build a mobile app like Temu shopping app can vary depending on different factors. In general the total expenses range from $55,000 to $250,000. These costs are not just random numbers, but these are influenced by the project’s complexity, desired features, and technological requirements. Let’s have a discussion about the cost which is done on the basis of the different phases which are involved in the app development process. 

Multiple Phases Affecting the Cost to Build a Mobile App Like Temu 

1. Project Planning and Research

During this crucial stage, the development team dedicates a substantial amount of time to comprehend project requirements, identify the target audience, and analyze current market trends. The project planning phase, spanning 20 to 80 hours, incurs Temu app development costs ranging from $1,000 to $12,000. It’s imperative to note that the development cost is based on the average development rate, ranging from $50 to $150 per hour. Meticulous planning and extensive research in this phase set the foundation for a successful app development journey.

2. Design (UI/UX)

Crafting a user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) that is both intuitive and visually appealing is paramount for any eCommerce app. Designing such interfaces typically demands significant time, ranging from 100 to 300 hours or more. Cost to build a mobile app are associated with this design work can range from $5,000 to $30,000 or higher. Despite the investment, this phase ensures a seamless and captivating user journey, playing a pivotal role in the app’s overall success.

3. Development

In the extensive development phase, the app’s functionality is coded. For a basic eCommerce app, this process can span 400-800 hours or more, with development costs ranging from $20,000 to $80,000 or higher. The complexity of features, such as the product catalog, shopping cart, and user authentication, influences the overall development time and Temu shopping app development cost.

4. Testing

Testing and quality assurance are essential for identifying and resolving potential issues. This phase, requiring 100 to 200 hours or more, incurs Temu shopping app development costs ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 or beyond. Meticulous testing ensures the application is bug-free and operates reliably, enhancing the overall user experience.

5. Backend Development

Backend development involves creating server-side logic, databases, and APIs driving the app’s functionality. This phase, lasting 200 to over 500 hours, incurs costs ranging from $10,000 to $25,000 or more. A robust backend is crucial for managing user data, transactions, and overall app functionality effectively.

6. Integration of APIs

Integrating third-party APIs, like payment gateways, enhances app functionality. This process may require an additional 40-80 hours, with costs ranging from $2,000 to $4,000. Seamless API integration is crucial for secure and efficient transactions within the app.

7. Deployment and Launch

Finalizing development and making the app available to users are crucial deployment and launch steps. This phase, requiring 20-40 hours, incurs Temu-like shopping app development costs ranging from $1,000 to $2,000. A successful launch sets the stage for user adoption and positive reviews, paving the way for app success.

8. Post-Launch Maintenance and Updates

Ongoing maintenance and updates are critical for keeping the app up-to-date and addressing emerging issues. Monthly maintenance efforts, spanning 20 to 40 hours or more, incur costs determined by specific needs. Regular updates are necessary to ensure the app remains competitive and meets evolving user expectations.

Source: Grandview Research

Must-Have Features to Build an App Like Temu

To guarantee the success of developing an online shopping app, it is crucial to integrate key features that cater to the evolving demands of users, similar to the Temu app. Here are essential features that significantly contribute to the success of such apps.

1. User Registration and Login

Streamlining the sign-up and login processes is pivotal for an online shopping app’s success, akin to features found in the Temu app. These functionalities not only provide users with a seamless onboarding experience but also ensure secure access to their profiles. Beyond facilitating quick logins, they contribute to personalized experiences, efficient order history tracking, and a secure gateway to user profiles.

2. Product Display

Crafting an exceptional user experience hinges on comprehensive product displays. These exhibits showcase detailed descriptions, high-quality images, and transparent pricing, crucial for enhancing customer satisfaction. By presenting products in a visually appealing manner, the browsing process becomes simpler, enabling customers to make well-informed purchasing decisions.

3. Team Creation and Management

Empowering users to establish teams based on contacts or shared connections fosters a sense of community within the app. This deepens user engagement and promotes social interaction, potentially enhancing customer retention by cultivating a distinctive and communal shopping environment.

4. Bid Capability

Real-time bidding on products injects dynamism into the shopping app, encouraging active user involvement and fostering a competitive atmosphere. This interactive feature enables users to participate actively and has the potential to boost revenue through increased user activity.

5. Shopping Cart

The online shopping cart simplifies the purchasing process, providing a central place for users to add, review, and finalize their selections before payment. A well-designed shopping cart reduces cart abandonment rates by offering a clear overview of chosen items, contributing to a smoother shopping experience and increased sales.

6. Payment Gateway Integration

Ensuring secure and confident online purchases is paramount for apps like Temu. Integrating a protected payment method provides users with the confidence to transact online, building trust and encouraging more users to complete financial transactions within the app.

7. Order Management

Efficiently handling orders is crucial for providing customers with a smooth end-to-end experience. This role oversees the entire order fulfillment process, including payment tracking, shipping, and returns, fostering transparency and ease in delivering goods and, consequently, increasing customer loyalty.

8. User Accounts

A personalized shopping experience relies on user profiles. Easy account creation, sign-in, and management ensure a seamless app experience, allowing companies to track customer preferences and past purchases for personalized suggestions and targeted marketing.

9. Search and Filtering

A powerful search and filter tool enhances the user experience by saving time and facilitating efficient item discovery. This feature allows users to quickly find items of interest, increasing the likelihood of completing purchases and positively impacting the overall effectiveness of the shopping app.

10. Personalized Recommendations

Utilizing user data to offer tailored product recommendations enhances the overall shopping experience, boosting user engagement and order frequency. This advanced functionality leads to increased sales by presenting products aligned with individual preferences.

11. Push Notifications

Push notifications play a crucial role in keeping customers informed about order updates or the latest deals, fostering customer engagement and loyalty. Timely alerts encourage users to use the app more frequently, contributing to a positive user experience and increased sales.

12. Integration with Shipping and Tracking APIs

Ensuring transparency in the delivery process through real-time order tracking, facilitated by integration with external shipping and tracking services, enhances the app’s reliability and builds trust among users.

13. Wishlists and Saved Items

Allowing users to save items for future consideration adds a considerate touch to the system, providing convenience and ease of use for users who wish to revisit items of interest.

14. Customer Service

In-app customer support tools, such as live chat or support tickets, contribute to user satisfaction by resolving issues promptly. Responding to customer inquiries promptly maintains a positive user experience and builds trust in the system.

15. Analytics and Reporting

Having the right tools for tracking user actions, app functionality, and sales data is essential for informed business decisions. Analytics and reporting features enable companies to identify areas for improvement, enhance user interaction, and contribute to better overall performance and increased revenue.

How to Make an App Like Temu? 

In order to ensure a seamless and successful app development process, there are several important steps which are involved in creating a shopping app similar to temu. In order to achieve the desired outcome, these steps must be followed carefully. 

1. Defining Project Scope

In this initial stage of app development, it is imperative to precisely articulate the objectives and functionalities of our eCommerce app. This involves clearly outlining the products the app will offer and identifying the target audience.

2. Conducting Market Research and Analysis

To gain a comprehensive understanding of customer preferences, the competitive landscape, and emerging trends in the eCommerce sector, thorough market research is crucial after establishing the project scope.

3. Selecting the Right Technology Stack

Following in-depth competitor analysis and market research, the next step involves choosing a suitable technology stack for the eCommerce app. Consideration should be given to factors such as scalability, security, and user experience when finalizing the technologies to be implemented.

4. Engaging a Dedicated App Development Firm

During this phase, it is essential to collaborate with a proficient app development service provider to bring technical expertise to the project. This ensures a smooth development process.

5. Designing User Interface and Experience

Now is the time to craft an intuitive and visually appealing UI/UX design to enhance the overall user experience and encourage engagement.

6. App Development

During this phase, the app developers will construct the eCommerce app across chosen platforms, focusing on robust coding and seamless integration of Temu app features.

7. Testing and Quality Assurance

A rigorous testing procedure is vital to identify and rectify any issues, ensuring the app’s functionality, security, and performance meet industry standards.

8. Integrating Payment Gateways

Once the app has been thoroughly tested, the next step is to implement secure and user-friendly payment gateways to facilitate smooth transactions within the eCommerce app.

9. Deployment

During this phase, apps like Temu are deployed on respective app stores, ensuring compliance with regulations and standards.

10. Providing Post-Launch Support and Updates

Ongoing support and regular updates are crucial at this stage to address any issues that may arise post-launch, introduce new features, and enhance overall user satisfaction.

Source: Grandview Research

How Can DesignersX Help You Leverage the E-Commerce Market with an App Like Temu?

We trust that our blog has provided you with a comprehensive overview for cost to build a mobile app for a platform like Temu. At DesignersX, we boast extensive experience in crafting state-of-the-art mobile applications tailored for eCommerce enterprises. Our proficiency lies in delivering inventive solutions seamlessly aligning with the dynamic landscape of online businesses, ensuring not only functionality but also a competitive business edge.

A standout project in our portfolio involved creating a dedicated shopping application for the renowned sports apparel giant, Adidas. This transformative app elevated the shopping experience for Adidas customers, delivering a smooth and enjoyable user interface on mobile devices. The app garnered over 2 million downloads and acquired more than 500,000 new users.

In another venture, we successfully developed 6th Street, an online fashion marketplace. This project underscores our capability to build robust online shopping apps, enabling users to effortlessly browse and purchase a curated selection of shoes, handbags, and other accessories.

Furthermore, our work on Edamama, a specialized shopping app for mothers, exemplifies our commitment to personalizing customer journeys through enhanced user interfaces and top-notch support.

At DesignersX, our objective is to comprehend your unique requirements and provide tailored eCommerce app development services poised to drive innovation, operational excellence, and business growth. Reach out to us, and let’s conquer the challenging eCommerce app market together.