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Hire an app developer: pick the build route first

Before you hire, decide whether you need an iPhone app, an Android app, both, or a web app that works like one. That choice changes who you hire and what it costs. This page walks through it.

Projects from $1,500$30 an hourFixed quote after a short call

350+ businesses served since 2018 · Offices in Pune, Coventry and New York

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In short

To hire an app developer, first decide the route: native for one platform, cross-platform for both, or a web app. Then check that the developer or team can also build the backend, handle store submission and support the app after launch. Liftup Technologies works from Pune at $30 an hour, projects from $1,500, with a fixed quote within one working day.

Choose the build route before you choose the person

RouteWhat it isChoose it whenTrade-off
Native iOS or AndroidSeparate app per platform, in each platform's languageYou need top performance or deep device featuresTwo builds cost more if you want both
Cross-platformOne codebase for both stores, such as React Native or FlutterYou want both platforms on one budgetSome native work still needed
Progressive web appA website that installs and works offlineContent, bookings or tools where the store is not essentialFewer device features on iPhone
Responsive web appA browser app that adapts to phonesInternal tools and early testsNo home screen presence unless added

Our PWA vs native app comparison explains when the web route is enough. Many first versions do not need a store release.

An app is more than a phone screen

Most apps need a backend: user accounts, a database, an API, admin tools and notifications. Ask whether the developer you are meeting builds this part. If not, find out who does, and who owns the integration between the two.

  • Backend and database, with backups.
  • Login, password reset and permissions.
  • Push notifications and email.
  • Payments, if the app sells anything.
  • An admin area so your team can manage users and content.
  • Analytics and crash reports from day one.

A quote that covers only the screens often hides most of the real work. Ask for the list above to be priced line by line.

Who to hire

OptionCost basisSpeedRiskManagement effort
Freelance developerHourly or per projectFast for small appsOne person; limited design and testingMedium
App agencyFixed quote or hourlySteady, with a planning phaseHigher price; check who does the workLow
Offshore teamHourly or fixedQuick to startTime zone gap and variable vendorsMedium
In-house teamSalariesSlow to assembleCost continues after launchHigh

For a first app, a small agency or offshore team with a fixed scope is often the least stressful route. If you plan to build a long-running product with weekly changes, in-house developers make sense later.

Rather have us do this for you?A short call, a written plan and a fixed quote.

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What to check before you sign

  1. See shipped appsAsk for links to live apps in the stores. Install them and use them for ten minutes.
  2. Confirm account ownershipThe developer accounts for Apple and Google should be in your company name. The code repository too.
  3. Agree the definition of doneList the screens, the user roles and the devices to test on. Ask what counts as a bug and what counts as a change.
  4. Plan the store reviewBoth stores review apps. Ask the developer how they prepare screenshots, privacy details and test accounts.
  5. Ask about after launchPhone operating systems update every year. Agree who fixes problems and how fast.

Apple and Google publish the rules for store listings and data privacy declarations. Check them against your plans, especially if the app handles children's data, health data or payments.

Finally, ask for a simple release plan: who tests, on which devices, in which order, and what happens if a store rejects the first submission. Rejections are common for the first release, usually over privacy text or missing test logins. A calm plan for the first rejection is a good sign of an experienced team.

How hiring Liftup works

Liftup Technologies builds mobile apps in React Native and Flutter, web apps in Next.js, and the backends behind them. Our head office is in Pune, with offices in Coventry and New York, and we work remotely during your working hours.

A short call is enough to scope the first version. You then receive a fixed quote within one working day, with one lead responsible for the project. Each week you see a working build, so a wrong turn costs days, not months. Our rate is $30 an hour, and projects start at $1,500.

Learn more on the mobile app development page, compare framework hires on the React Native developer page, see all roles on the hire page or contact us.

Sources: Apple App Store Review Guidelines, Google Play Console Help.

Updated 6 November 2026

Questions, answered

How do I choose between iOS and Android first?
Look at where your customers are. If most of them use one platform, launch there. If you serve a broad audience, use a cross-platform build and release both.
Do I need an app or will a website do?
A website is enough when people use your service occasionally and can come through search. An app helps when users return daily or need device features like the camera.
How do I protect my idea?
Use a written agreement that covers confidentiality and states that you own the code and designs. Talk to a lawyer about your specific situation.
What does an app cost to run each year?
Expect developer account fees, hosting, third-party services, and maintenance for operating system updates. Ask for the list with the quote.
Can you take over an app another developer built?
Often yes. We review the code and accounts first and then tell you whether to continue or rebuild.

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