18 Jun 2025
  

How Much Does It Cost To Build An App Like BBC News?

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Anushka Das

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BBC News

BBC News is one of the most trusted and used news apps globally, providing millions of users with real-time breaking news, high-quality analysis, and multimedia news content on all topics. The app is straightforward, allowing users to browse news categories, watch live broadcasts, and receive personalized news based on their interests, all in one place seamlessly. A push notification system in place receives breaking news content as it happens. The app also includes video reports, podcasts, and interactive graphics that enhance the overall quality of journalism BBC News delivers and build a benchmark for the digital news industry. 

With the increase in digital consumption, businesses and media organizations want to create similar news apps to connect with audiences toward integrative news consumption and generate revenue. Building an app analogous to BBC News takes an organized, careful, and thorough approach, including advanced features such as Artificial Intelligence-driven personalized content display, offline reading, and multi-access to your news content. Costs associated with development can vary depending on the app’s complexity, app design, and tech stack, all of which influence app budgeting for obtaining an outsourced development team depending on their location and overall level of delivery of experiences. If you understand how to budget, you can create an iterative process for budgeting like BBC News.

By understanding costs, companies will have a proper budget plan and be able to identify the best development path. If a company wishes to enter the digital book space, knowing the cost to build an app like BBC News (a good example of a digital news app) will help it make decisions. Companies must consider aspects like UI/UX design, back-end development, API integrations, and support and maintenance costs when developing an app. 

However, when hiring a mobile app development company in USA, the company’s expertise and development rates in each region considerably impact costs. Understanding the financial aspects helps the business plan spend its investment prudently, with a solid, scalable news app that meets user expectations in a competitive environment.

Table of Contents

Growing Demand For News Apps in the Digital Era

Mobile News App

The global market for news and magazine apps is estimated to have generated around USD 1.18 billion in 2021. Based on a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.0% from 2022 to 2028, it is expected to continue growing. The increased use of curated news feeds and offline reading options drive this growth, especially in Asia. The increasing sales of smartphones and better connectivity have made news more readily accessible, promoting the increase. In 2023, 86% of U.S. adults say they receive news through a digital device, with 57% saying they do so often. This trend is also more significant in younger demographics, as more than 80% of 16-24-year-olds in the UK prefer reading online, such as through social media, as opposed to on television. 

The COVID-19 outbreak also increased the number of mobile news apps. During the epidemic’s early stages, the United States recorded a 104% increase in daily sessions on mobile news apps and a 53% increase in app installs to keep up with real-time updates during the health crisis. Publishers recognize the necessity of mobile apps to maintain direct reader relationships. Mobile apps offer publishers unique benefits with enhanced data privacy using first-party data collection and heightened user engagement with personalized content and push notifications.

These attributes appeal to modern readers’ expectations for immediacy and provide publishers with important information about user interests, leading to more personalized services. The financial success of news apps supports the increasing expectation of digital news consumption. 

Leading news apps have recently recorded the best revenues, showing the ongoing shift toward digital news consumption. This change pressures legacy news publishers to rethink their business model and innovate in digital formats to sustain relevance and profitability.

Key Features of an App Like BBC News

These features collectively enhance user engagement and ensure timely access to news content:

BBC News app features

1. User-Friendly Interface

  • Intuitive Navigation
  • Responsive Design
  • Customizable Themes

2. Personalized Content

  • Customizable News Feeds
  • Topic Preferences
  • Saved Articles

3. Multimedia Integration

  • Video Content
  • Audio Content
  • Image Galleries

4. Real-Time Updates

  • Breaking News Alerts
  • Live Coverage
  • Push Notifications

5. Offline Access

  • Downloadable Content
  • Offline Reading Mode

6. Search Functionality

  • Keyword Search
  • Filtered Results
  • Search History

7. Social Sharing

  • Integration with Social Media Platforms
  • Email Sharing
  • Copy Link Feature

8. User Engagement

  • Comment Sections
  • Polls and Surveys
  • User Feedback Options

9. Accessibility Features

  • Text-to-Speech
  • Adjustable Font Sizes
  • High-Contrast Mode

10. Regional Customization

  • Location-Based News
  • Multiple Language Support

11. Analytics and Insights

  • Trending Topics
  • Most Read Articles
  • User Behavior Analytics

12. Security and Privacy

  • Data Encryption
  • Privacy Settings
  • Secure Login

13. Monetization Options

  • Subscription Models
  • In-App Advertising
  • Premium Content Access

14. Integration with Other BBC Services

  • Access to BBC Podcasts
  • Live Streaming of BBC Radio
  • Cross-Promotion of BBC Programs

Factors Influencing the Cost to Develop an App Like BBC News

Developing a news app like BBC News involves multiple factors influencing the overall cost. Below is a detailed breakdown of these factors:

BBC News App cost
1. App Design & UI/UX

The complexity of the app’s design significantly impacts development costs.

Design ComplexityDescriptionEstimated Cost Range
BasicSimple layouts with standard elements$5,000 – $15,000
IntermediateCustom graphics and animations$15,000 – $30,000
AdvancedHighly interactive and unique designs$30,000 – $50,000+

2. Features & Functionality

The scope and sophistication of features determine the app’s complexity and cost.

Feature SetDescriptionEstimated Cost Range
BasicNews feed, user registration, search functionality$20,000 – $40,000
IntermediatePush notifications, multimedia content, offline mode$40,000 – $70,000
AdvancedLive streaming, AI-driven personalization, social sharing$70,000 – $100,000+

3. Tech Stack Selection

Choosing the appropriate platform affects both development time and cost.

PlatformDescriptionEstimated Cost Range
iOS or AndroidDeveloping for a single platform$30,000 – $60,000
Cross-PlatformUtilizing frameworks like Flutter or React Native$50,000 – $80,000

4. Backend Development

Robust backend infrastructure is essential for seamless app performance.

ComponentDescriptionEstimated Cost Range
Server InfrastructureCloud services, scalability considerations$10,000 – $30,000
APIsIntegration with third-party services$5,000 – $15,000
Database ManagementSecure and efficient data storage solutions$10,000 – $20,000

5. Security & Compliance

Ensuring data protection and adherence to regulations is crucial.

Security MeasuresDescriptionEstimated Cost Range
Data EncryptionProtecting user data during transmission and storage$5,000 – $10,000
ComplianceMeeting standards like GDPR, CCPA$10,000 – $20,000

6. Third-Party Integrations

Incorporating external services enhances functionality but adds to costs.

Integration TypeDescriptionEstimated Cost Range
Social MediaEnabling content sharing and social logins$2,000 – $5,000
AnalyticsTracking user behavior and app performance$3,000 – $7,000
Ad NetworksImplementing in-app advertisements$2,000 – $6,000

7. Development Team & Location

The geographical location of the development team influences labor costs.

RegionAverage Hourly RateEstimated Total Cost
USA$100 – $150$100,000 – $400,000
Saudi Arabia$50 – $100$50,000 – $250,000
UAE$60 – $120$60,000 – $300,000

Estimated Cost to Build an App Like BBC News

Developing an app like BBC News involves varying costs based on the desired features and complexity. Here’s an overview of the estimated costs for different development tiers:

App Like BBC News

1. Basic App (MVP Version)

Features:

  • User Registration & Login 
  • Standard News Feed
  • Basic Search Functionality 
  • Push Notifications 
  • Bookmarking & Reading History 
  • Basic Content Management System (CMS)

Timeline: Approximately 6 months

Estimated Cost: $30,000 to $50,000

2. Mid-Range App

Includes all MVP features, plus:

  • Multimedia Content
  • Offline Reading Mode
  • User Profiles & Personalization 
  • Social Media Integration 
  • Commenting & Reactions 
  • AI-Powered Content Categorization 
  • Dark Mode & Custom Themes

Timeline: Approximately 9 months

Estimated Cost: $50,000 to $100,000

3. Advanced App (Fully-Featured like BBC News)

Includes all Mid-Range features, plus:

  • Live Streaming Capabilities
  • AI-Driven Content Recommendations 
  • Comprehensive Analytics Dashboard 
  • Multi-Language Support
  • Advanced Security Measures
  • Podcast & Audio News Integration
  • Augmented Reality (AR) Features
  • Voice Search & Smart Assistant Integration
  • Subscription & Monetization Models 

Timeline: Over a year

Estimated Cost: $100,000 to $400,000

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Build a News App Like BBC News

Creating a news app like Khaleej Times or BBC News is a thorough process, ensuring smooth delivery of up-to-date content with an interesting, engaging user experience. Here is an in-depth, step-by-step approach to building a news app: 

News App

Step 1: Set Your App’s Purpose and Audience 

Know your target audience and what the app will primarily do. Will it be a news aggregation app, or will you do your own reporting? Knowing your target audience can help you determine features to implement and content. 

Step 2 Research the Market and Competitors 

Look at other news apps to determine what features are successful and what is worth mimicking or changing altogether. Use competitor news app like Al Jazeera and BBC News to add to industry standards and expectations. 

Step 3: Decide on the Best Platform 

You must decide whether to develop an app for iOS, Android, or both. Your target audience may have particular devices you’re thinking of and plan to build upon. There may also be other considerations if you want to develop a native or cross-platform app

Step 4: Create an Easy UI/UX 

Develop a quick and easy user interface (UI) that can be easily navigated, with readable fonts and proper hues. Consider that the design should be mobile for different devices and screen sizes. 

Step 5: Develop Core Functionalities 

You will want to develop specific functions to maximize user engagement and access to the news content when you want it delivered promptly.

Step 6: Set Up a Backend System

Develop a fully functioning backend, including servers, databases, and APIs, to optimize content delivery and secure user information management. An adequately built backend is key to responsiveness and reliability. 

Step 7: Add Third-Party Services

Incorporate service elements such as social media sharing, analytic tools, and advertising networks into the app to enhance its functionality and monetization potential. 

Step 8: Provide Security and Adhere to Regulatory Compliance

Data must be encrypted, and other measures should be taken to adhere to laws such as GDPR and CCPA to bolster security and public trust. 

Step 9: Test Thoroughly

Conduct extensive functional, performance, and security tests to identify and repair problems before launch. The extent of the testing you do will guarantee the app’s quality and security. 

Step 10: Launch and Solicit Feedback

Launch the app on its selected platforms, encourage users to provide feedback, and make continuous improvements based on the users’ feedback. This will increase the potential and ensure the opportunity to increase perceived value over time.

What to Look for When Hiring a News App Development Company?

Mobile App Development Company

1. Specialization in Mobile App Development

Look for a company that is dedicated solely to mobile app development instead of a company that simply adds mobile app development to their service offerings. The fact that a company is strictly focused on mobile app builds means that you will get a dedicated team with relevant experience in mobile technology, user experience (UX), and the latest in mobile app development trends

2. Comprehensive Service Offering

Reputable full-cycle mobile app development partners will handle every aspect of your mobile app, from research to UI/UX design, software coding, testing, and ongoing support after the app launches. Full-service developers ensure the entire process is smooth, a high level of quality is met, and the elements of all aspects of the build are well-coordinated in the final project. 

3. Proven Experience and Portfolio

Have the company show you its past work, particularly its experience in developing news apps or similar content publishing platforms, which will indicate the fit for your project. If you feel confident with a company’s portfolio, they likely can deliver a solution that attracts users and meets their business goals. 

4. Client Testimonials and Reviews

Check sites such as Clutch, GoodFirms, or Google Reviews for feedback from prior clients and what ratings those clients gave the development firm. High scores and good reviews indicate that the development company is trustworthy and professional and has previous experience delivering similar projects. 

5. Technical Expertise

Ensure the firm you choose demonstrates that it works with the top mobile solutions and framework options, such as React Native, Flutter, or Swift. The technical implementation speaks to the app’s performance, speed, security, and adaptability for future updates.

6. Effective Communication and Transparency

A development partner must maintain open communication, provide ongoing updates to the project, and respond to inquiries. Good collaboration fosters trust and will help ensure the app meets your vision.

7. Understanding of Your Business Needs

The company should take time to understand your business objectives, target audience, and unique requirements. This is important strategically, so you know the app delivers value and fully engages the user experience.

8. Post-Launch Support and Maintenance

Even the best app will require updates, bug fixes, and performance improvements. The company you select should provide your app with ongoing maintenance and support to keep it operating reliably and remaining competitive.

Meet Your Trusted Partner for Cutting-Edge News App Development

Techugo has established itself as a leading mobile app development company in Saudi Arabia, offering expertise in crafting innovative and user-centric news apps. Its commitment to delivering high-quality digital solutions has made it a preferred partner for businesses aiming to enhance their digital presence.

News Apps

1. Expertise in News App Development

Techugo specializes in developing news apps that cater to the evolving needs of modern users. They prioritize understanding client requirements to create digital solutions that resonate with the target audience. Their approach ensures that the news apps they develop are informative and engaging, keeping users connected and informed.

2. Cost-Effective Solutions

Recognizing businesses’ diverse budgetary constraints, Techugo offers flexible engagement models. Its global presence, with offices in India and the USA, allows it to provide high-quality services at competitive rates, ensuring that clients receive value-driven solutions without compromising quality.

3. Benefits of Partnering with Techugo

  • Techugo provides end-to-end services, from initial concept development to post-launch support, ensuring a seamless experience throughout the project lifecycle.
  • They emphasize transparent communication and involve clients at every development stage, fostering trust and ensuring that the final product aligns with business objectives.
  • With over 750 successful mobile apps developed, Techugo’s rich portfolio showcases its ability to deliver innovative solutions across various industries.

Consult Experts Today!

A well-structured plan is essential to balance quality and budget. An MVP prioritizes core features for the initial release and allows for user feedback-driven enhancements, reducing unnecessary expenditures. Choosing scalable technologies and modular architectures facilitates future updates without extensive overhauls. Additionally, collaborating with experienced development partners can provide valuable insights into cost-effective solutions.

Partnering with seasoned professionals such as Techugo ensures precise cost assessments tailored to your project’s requirements. Techugo specializes in crafting innovative news apps, offering comprehensive services from conceptualization to deployment. Their client-centric approach and transparent communication foster trust and alignment with business objectives. Engaging with experts like Techugo provides accurate budgeting and leverages their technical expertise to deliver high-quality mobile apps.

Understanding the multifaceted costs of developing an app like BBC News necessitates strategic planning and expert consultation. Businesses can optimize their investment by focusing on essential features, selecting appropriate technologies, and collaborating with experienced developers to achieve a successful app launch.

So get started today! Connect with Techugo!

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