It is very evident that while some mobile app developments are successful, others are unsuccessful, depending heavily on how they are maintained. Mobile maintenance is a very crucial factor in app development, as it helps to resolve glitches and helps with upgrades and modifications. Also, measuring the approximate cost of maintaining an app helps in avoiding sudden burdens in case of any unforseen event. 

Some experts agree that app maintenance can cost 15-20% of the total development cost. Some of the questions we intend to answer in this article include: How much does it cost to maintain an app, and is it worth it? We’ll also explore various factors and costs associated with mobile app maintenance and types of mobile app developments. Also, we will look at the benefits of app maintenance and how to reduce maintenance costs.

Types of Mobile App Development Maintenance

The mobile ecosystem is complex, with various devices and apps. There are four primary types of mobile app maintenance:

1# Perfective Maintenance

This is initiated to enhance app performance, add new features, and address user-identified issues to boost the user experience.

2# Adaptive Maintenance

This type of maintenance ensures app compatibility with new operating system versions or devices and also adjusts components as needed.

3# Preventive Maintenance: 

This is implemented in order to proactively identify, prevent, and fix issues through active monitoring and, as such, reduce potential problems.

4# Corrective Maintenance

This type of maintenance tends to resolve reported malfunctions and fix identified issues, with the aim of ensuring app stability and functionality.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Maintaining an App

The cost of maintaining an app is dependent on various factors. Here are some of the categories of costs associated with mobile app maintenance:

1#  Hosting Fees

To get this cost, it will depend on the size and complexity of the app. Most times, hosting fees can range from $70 to $320 per month. For a simple app with no user login or database requirements, it can get by with a basic shared hosting plan.

On the other hand, if the app has more complex features like user login or an eCommerce component, it will require a higher payment for VPS hosting.

2# Updates and New Features

This cost is applicable when there is a need to add new features or update existing ones. More often than not, the cost of updating an app depends on the wages of mobile app developers. In the United States, the average hourly rate for a mobile app developer is between $41 and $54. Thus, it is not wrong to agree that the cost of adding new features mainly depends on the scope of the project. 

3# Support

This ensures that mobile app support is active 24/7. This support cost is widely determined by the number of customer service reps needed and the hours they work. Customer support rep rates range between $15 and $19 per hour. 

 4# App Store Fees

This applies to listing an app in the Apple Store or Google Play Store. For a developer account, this requires an annual fee of $99 for Apple or a one-time fee of $25 for Google.

 5# App Marketing Activities

Developing and publishing an app is just the beginning. To build trust with users, it’s essential to communicate every change, especially those affecting privacy, data, or payment information. With each new upgrade or modification, promotional activities are necessary to inform users and maintain transparency. These efforts come with unavoidable costs, which are factored into your overall Android or iOS app maintenance costs. 

 To achieve a successful mobile app, there is a need for thorough preparation, including investing time and finances in its maintenance. It is also important to note that outsourcing to a mobile app development company is a great idea.

The Importance of Mobile Application Maintenance 

The benefits of maintaining app development cannot be quantified. Having stated this, let’s discuss in detail why mobile application maintenance is important:

Ensure Seamless Performance

Smartphone manufacturers regularly update their technologies, which can make apps incompatible and lead to security issues, glitches, or UI/UX problems. Regular maintenance helps prevent these issues.

Stay Relevant and Engaging

If an app doesn’t offer updated features and information, users may uninstall it. In fact, over 70% of users uninstall apps within 90 days, and the average app uninstallation rate in the US was around 43% in 2020. Regular maintenance helps keep apps fresh and error-free, increasing user retention.

Outshine the Competition

With millions of apps vying for attention, strategic upgrades and maintenance can help an app stand out and build a permanent reputation in the market. It is important to keep an eye on competitors and how they evolve with technology.

Build Lasting Goodwill

An error-free and technologically advanced app can earn a good reputation, leading to brand loyalty and user satisfaction. This goodwill can also benefit future app launches.

Minimize Downtimes

Downtime can lead to significant revenue losses. Regular maintenance, updates, and protection against hacking attempts can help avoid downtimes and ensure a seamless user experience.

Reducing Mobile Application Maintenance Cost

To minimize the expenses associated with mobile app maintenance, consider the following strategies:

 Choose the Right Development Platform

Selecting the appropriate development platform is crucial in determining the cost, effort, and time invested in app maintenance. Native apps offer superior performance and features but require separate maintenance for each platform. Hybrid apps, on the other hand, provide a cost-effective solution for deploying apps across multiple platforms with limited features.

 Focus on Building an MVP App

 Developing a minimum viable product (MVP) app with basic features and a minimal user interface can significantly reduce maintenance costs. It is advisable to avoid incorporating unnecessary features that can increase app size, loading time, and crashes. Rather, the app developer should develop an app with basic features and a minimal user interface. And also add features later based on user feedback, competitor analysis, and market trends. 

Follow the Latest Development Trends

Staying up-to-date with the latest technology and UI trends can help reduce the need for frequent maintenance. Thus, mobile app development companies should use reliable sources like MobileAppDaily and top IoT trends to provide valuable insights to keep their apps fresh and competitive.

 Understanding Hidden Costs

When developing an app, four essential services are typically required: 

1. Functional services (e.g., push notifications)
2. Administrative services (e.g., user administration and back-end management)
3. Infrastructure services (e.g., servers)
4. IT support services (e.g., testing and updates)

 To achieve specific functionalities and features, additional services in terms of data storage, dashboard emulation, access control, APIs, libraries, tools, and image data are to be considered.

These hidden factors can significantly impact your budget. To get an accurate estimate, there is a need to discuss all cost factors with app development companies. Normally, as mobile apps grow, costs will likely increase. To save on maintenance costs and hidden fees, bargain with your outsourced partner.

Remember, understanding hidden costs is crucial to avoiding unexpected expenses and ensuring the long-term success of your app.

How North South Tech Can Help

Launching an app is just the first step. Just like a house, neglecting regular maintenance can lead to problems down the road. That’s why North South Tech is here to provide expert mobile app maintenance services.

We understand that keeping users engaged requires ongoing commitment. By prioritizing regular bug fixes, upgrades, and improvements, you can build trust and foster user loyalty. Even minor updates demonstrate that you’re listening to feedback and taking steps to improve the app.

By integrating a cost-effective maintenance plan early on, you can avoid costly fixes later. North South Tech will help you keep your app running smoothly and efficiently, ensuring it meets the evolving needs of your users.

Ready to cultivate a thriving app that keeps your customers happy?

Contact North South Tech today for a free consultation. We’ll help you create a customized maintenance plan that fits your budget and keeps your app on the path to success.