TIGERLABS / A PRACTICAL BUYER’S GUIDE
How much does a simple mobile app cost?
By the TigerLabs team · Updated October 18, 2026
A useful answer starts with the first version’s scope. A three-screen Android tool that saves information on a phone is a different project from a two-platform app with accounts, shared data and subscriptions. This guide explains our own starting packages and the decisions that change a quote. These are TigerLabs prices, not an industry-wide average.
Our starting packages, at a glance
| Package | Price | Agreed first release | Delivery target |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technical Start | $500 | Android test build, up to 3 screens, one local-data workflow, source code | 14 days, 1 revision |
| Lean MVP | $2,000 | Android app, up to 8 screens, basic interface design, local data, test build and source | 30 days, 2 revisions |
| Cross Platform MVP | $3,000 | Android and iPhone, up to 10 screens, basic interface design, local data, store-ready builds and source | 45 days, 2 revisions |
Timelines start after scope and required materials are agreed. Message before ordering so we can confirm that the package fits. See the development packages.
A concrete example of a small first version
Imagine a personal equipment log. Its three screens could be a list of items, an add/edit form, and an item’s details. If the first version stores the information only on that device, the core workflow can stay focused. A request to share the log with a team adds different work: accounts, access rules, a backend and synchronization. It needs a separate estimate even if the visible screen count hardly changes.
Write down what happens when a person opens the app, completes the main action, and comes back tomorrow. That sequence is more useful for scoping than a long wish list of unrelated features.
What increases development scope?
- Accounts and shared data: sign-in, account recovery, permissions and synchronization introduce services beyond a local-data workflow.
- Payments and subscriptions: entitlement handling, purchase restoration and platform testing need explicit scope.
- External integrations: maps, messaging, AI or a business system can introduce API setup, usage fees and failure cases.
- Two platforms: iPhone and Android both need build configuration and testing. Device-specific behavior still matters.
- Content and design readiness: original illustrations, complex animations or large content libraries are separate from basic interface design.
Which costs are separate?
Our store submission support starts at $250 for one store or $400 for both. Developer-account fees, hosting, paid APIs and other third-party charges are separate. You supply your branding, content, developer accounts and feedback. Login, backend services, payments and advanced integrations require a custom quote.
Store-ready builds and store approval are different milestones. Submission support covers the agreed submission work; Apple and Google make the approval decision. Plan time for review, questions and any required testing.
What to ask before accepting a quote
- Which screens and one main workflow are included?
- What data stays on the device, and what is shared?
- Which platforms and builds will be delivered?
- How many revisions are included, and what counts as a scope change?
- Will you receive source code and setup instructions?
- Who owns service accounts, pays recurring bills and handles later maintenance?
A lower initial price is useful only if the deliverables match what you need. Start with a complete, small workflow rather than an unfinished collection of features.
Prepare a brief before asking for a price
Our free brief builder helps you describe the audience, main action and must-have screens. It runs in your browser and does not submit your answers to TigerLabs.