Top 10 custom app development company picks 2025 startups

What is the best custom mobile app development company?

The best custom mobile app development company depends on your needs. Companies like Appinventiv excel in fintech and healthcare, Ptolemay focuses on fast MVPs for startups, and Apadmi provides strong post-launch support. Look for expertise in your industry, scalability, and clear communication.

1 - Ptolemay

As a leading custom mobile app development company, Ptolemay specializes in building cross-platform mobile apps using cutting-edge technologies like Flutter, Node.js, React Native, and AI integrations. Focused on startups, they specialize in fast MVP delivery with scalable, future-ready solutions.

Success Stories

Diagnio: A smart fertility and health app using saliva-based tests to track hormonal health, supporting women through postpartum recovery, endocrine care, and menopause.

SelfieSelf: A creative app that pairs with pre-purchased art kits to generate personalized, step-by-step crafting instructions for styles like Paint by Number and Mosaics.

Sézane: A boutique shopping app offering real-time inventory, secure payments, and effortless returns for a seamless fashion experience.

What Sets Ptolemay Apart

Ptolemay incorporates Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to develop smart solutions like predictive analytics, process automation, and personalization of user experience. Leveraging tools such as GraphQL, Firebase, and Kotlin, the company ensures high-performance apps with fast response times, making it a trusted name in custom mobile app development.

Industry Expertise

Ptolemay delivers tailored solutions across various industries:

• Healthcare: Telemedicine platforms and medical record management systems.
• FinTech: Payment system integrations, expense tracking apps, and finance management tools.
• Retail and E-commerce: Automated analytics, loyalty programs, and personalized shopping apps.
• Education: Platforms for online courses and interactive learning experiences.
• Social Networking: Content-sharing platforms and user engagement tools.

Ptolemay goes beyond custom app development, offering ongoing technical support, optimization, and scaling assistance. They also integrate advanced features like analytics dashboards and user interaction tools to ensure your app grows with your business.

Flexible Collaboration Model

As a custom mobile app development company, Ptolemay works on a Time and Material (T&M) model tailored to startups:

• Pay-as-you-go: You only pay for completed work every month, ensuring budget flexibility.
• Transparent Process: With regular updates and detailed reports, you’ll have full visibility into your app’s progress.

With Ptolemay, startups get more than just an app—they gain a reliable tech partner dedicated to turning ideas into successful businesses.

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2 - Imaginary Cloud

For startups, speed and precision in app development are key—and that’s exactly what Imaginary Cloud delivers. Known for its deep focus on custom mobile app development, the company has over 14 years of experience helping startups translate their ideas into functional, scalable products. Using their unique Product Design Process, they ensure that every project is user-centric and built to drive growth.

Notable Projects

• ELSA Speak: Imaginary Cloud enhanced the scalability and usability of this AI-powered language learning app, enabling its successful global expansion.
• Invisible Homes: The team redefined the user journey for this property platform, leading to over 35,000 new registrations and a noticeable increase in user activity.
• G7FX: They built an intuitive integration with Discord, allowing the trading community to connect more efficiently and improve engagement.

What Makes Imaginary Cloud Stand Out

Imaginary Cloud combines creativity with cutting-edge technology to deliver results. Using frameworks like React, Django, and Ruby on Rails, they create high-performance custom mobile applications designed to meet startups’ unique needs. Their team is known for being in the top 1% of product developers, ensuring every detail aligns with client goals.

Diverse Industry Expertise

Imaginary Cloud has successfully developed tailored apps in sectors like:

• Healthcare: User-friendly platforms for digital health solutions.
• Finance: Tools like Confinze that boost user retention through intuitive design.
• Education: Innovative learning solutions that increase user engagement.

Imaginary Cloud doesn’t stop at delivery. They continue to support their clients with scaling, optimizing, and maintaining applications to ensure long-term success. This makes them a perfect partner for startups looking to grow sustainably.

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3 - Designli

Designli has earned a reputation as a dependable custom app development company dedicated to helping startups transform innovative ideas into functional, market-ready products. Focusing on transparency and efficiency, their approach ensures startups can launch Minimum Viable Products (MVPs) quickly while staying aligned with their budget and goals.

Success Stories

• Virtuosity: Collaborated to build a character-building app, providing a clear simulation and roadmap that enabled quick decision-making on the next steps.
• Behind the Knife: Designed and developed a learning platform for surgeons, transforming the #1 surgery podcast in the U.S. into an interactive mobile app with premium content.
• Emergency Operations Center: Supported critical government software with reliable updates and enhancements during times of crisis.

What Sets Designli Apart

Designli combines strong design principles with advanced technical solutions, including its proprietary backend development tool, the Designli Engine. This tool accelerates app creation by up to 70%, ensuring faster delivery without sacrificing quality. Designli's unique ability to simplify complex processes makes it an ideal choice for custom app development tailored to startups.

Industry Expertise

Designli delivers targeted solutions for diverse industries:

• Healthcare: Telemedicine apps and medical systems that improve accessibility and patient care.
• Education: Platforms for interactive learning that enhance knowledge retention and engagement.
• Finance: Apps that simplify financial literacy and personal money management.
• Social Networking: Tools to foster community engagement and meaningful interactions.

Designli’s work doesn’t end after development. They offer ongoing support, scaling, and optimization to ensure your app grows with your business. Their focus on long-term success has made them a trusted partner for startups navigating complex markets.

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4 - Appinventiv Technologies

Appinventiv Technologies specializes in custom mobile application development, delivering over 3,000 scalable apps across industries like healthcare, finance, and e-commerce. With a team of 1,600+ experts and a focus on user-centric design, they help startups launch quickly and achieve long-term growth.

Success Stories

• Domino’s: Appinventiv reworked their mobile app, making it more user-friendly. The result? A 23% boost in conversions and a top rating on app stores.
• JobGet: They built a recruitment platform that’s super easy to use, helping the app hit over 2 million downloads and land $52 million in funding.
• KFC: They gave the ordering system a total makeover, which made it faster, smoother, and more fun to use—customers loved it.

Why They Stand Out

Appinventiv knows how to build apps that are not just functional but smart. They use cutting-edge tools like AI, blockchain, and IoT to create solutions that adapt to users' needs. When it comes to custom mobile software development, they’re the ones startups can rely on for apps that grow with their business.

Industries They’ve Mastered

Appinventiv has done some seriously cool work in these fields:

• Healthcare: Built apps for virtual doctor visits and health tracking.
• FinTech: Created secure payment platforms and tools for managing finances.
• E-commerce: Designed personalized shopping apps and feature-packed online stores.
• Education: Developed interactive learning platforms that make remote learning a breeze.
• Social Media: Helped launch apps for sharing and connecting in creative ways.

Appinventiv sticks around after the launch. They’ll help you fine-tune your app, scale it up, and keep it running smoothly. They also dive into user analytics to make sure your app keeps getting better.

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5 - ScienceSoft USA Corporation

ScienceSoft USA Corporation has been a trusted leader in the software industry since 1989. Known for its expertise in building scalable and efficient applications, the company has become a go-to partner for startups looking to launch innovative products. Their tailored approach ensures every project aligns with the unique goals of a business, making them a top choice for custom mobile application development.

Success Stories

• Viber Development Contribution: ScienceSoft played a key role in the evolution of Viber, a messaging platform that now serves over 1 billion users.
• IoT Physiotherapy Platform: They developed an IoT-powered system that improved patient outcomes and reduced unnecessary surgeries, showcasing their innovative healthcare solutions.

What Sets ScienceSoft Apart

ScienceSoft leverages cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and IoT to create impactful solutions. With proficiency in tools like Microsoft Azure, SharePoint, and Power BI, they deliver results that are both efficient and forward-thinking. This expertise in custom mobile development ensures startups can quickly bring market-ready apps to life.

Industry Expertise

ScienceSoft has an impressive track record across diverse industries:

• Healthcare: Designed a GAMP4-compliant system to automate cancer drug manufacturing.
• Finance: Developed underwriting software for an aviation insurer with $30 billion in assets.
• Retail: Created a business intelligence tool used across 10,500 stores, improving sales strategies.

ScienceSoft offers more than just development. Their services extend to app optimization, technical support, and seamless scaling. This ongoing commitment ensures that startups don’t just launch successfully—they grow sustainably.

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6 - Hedgehog Lab

Hedgehog Lab brings nearly two decades of experience in crafting tailored digital solutions for startups. As experts in custom app development services, they combine cutting-edge technology with human-centered design to create apps that not only perform but truly connect with users. Their approach ensures startups can scale their ideas into impactful digital products.

Success Stories that Stand Out

• Dodl by AJ Bell: Hedgehog Lab developed an intuitive investment app that made first-time investing simple and accessible for a broader audience.
• PeaceTech Lab: By creating the world’s first AI-powered co-pilot for peacebuilders, they showcased their expertise in integrating advanced technologies into meaningful applications.

What Makes Them Unique

Hedgehog Lab isn’t just a development company; they’re a strategic partner. Their team excels in custom application development, ensuring that every product they build aligns with the unique needs of each client. From AI integrations to cross-platform compatibility, their technical expertise delivers solutions that are innovative and future-proof.

Diverse Industry Expertise

With a versatile portfolio, Hedgehog Lab has contributed to industries such as:

• Finance: Secure and user-friendly apps for better financial management.
• Travel & Transport: Seamless digital tools to enhance customer experiences.
• Logistics: Platforms that simplify operations and improve efficiency.

This breadth of experience positions them as a go-to partner for startups in any sector.

Hedgehog Lab goes the extra mile by providing ongoing support and maintenance. They don’t just deliver an app; they ensure it evolves with your startup’s growth. Their focus on long-term success makes them a trusted ally for scaling businesses.

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7 - Apadmi Ltd

Apadmi has a proven track record of turning startup ideas into successful apps. They focus on building products that aren’t just functional but also intuitive and scalable, always keeping the client’s business goals at the center. Whether you’re launching a new app or improving an existing one, Apadmi works as a partner, bringing the technical expertise and creative insight to deliver results that matter.

Some of Their Work

• Domino’s Pizza: Revamped the app’s design and functionality, leading to a big jump in sales (11.5% weekly increase) and a 17% rise in active users.
• TalkTalk: Created an app that made managing accounts and accessing customer support much easier for users.
• BBC Radio: Delivered a sleek, easy-to-use app that changed how listeners interact with their favorite shows and podcasts.

Why Apadmi Stands Out

Apadmi specializes in building custom app software designed to solve real-world problems. They incorporate technologies like AI, IoT, and machine learning to create innovative features that help your app stand out. Their team also puts a huge focus on speed and user experience, making sure your app is as functional as it is engaging.

Industries They’ve Worked In

Apadmi’s experience spans several industries, and they adapt their approach to meet the needs of each one:

• Healthcare: Apps for the NHS that make healthcare more accessible and user-friendly.
• Retail and E-commerce: Custom solutions for brands like Argos and Co-op to enhance shopping experiences.
• Media and Entertainment: Projects like the BBC Radio app, designed to keep users engaged and coming back for more.

What makes Apadmi different is their commitment to ongoing support. After your app launches, they’ll work with you to optimize performance, introduce new features, and respond to user feedback. This ensures your app keeps evolving alongside your business.

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8 - ValueCoders

ValueCoders specializes in crafting custom business application development solutions that help startups turn ambitious ideas into functional, scalable apps. With over 20 years of experience, they’re known for building apps that adapt as businesses grow—perfect for startups looking to make an impact without breaking the bank.

Proven Results

• Live Streaming App: Designed for creators to host events and stream in HD or Ultra HD, this app is a great example of their ability to deliver custom built apps that boost engagement and revenue.
• Digital Learning Platform: Developed an interactive education platform with real-time student performance tracking, making online learning more engaging and effective.
• Restaurant Booking System: Created a smart solution for restaurants and hotels, simplifying reservations and improving customer experiences.

Why They Stand Out

ValueCoders uses advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to create apps that aren’t just functional—they’re smart. Whether it’s predictive analytics or cross-platform compatibility, their solutions help startups stay ahead in competitive markets.

Industries They Know Best

ValueCoders has delivered impactful solutions across industries like:

• Healthcare: From telemedicine to health monitoring apps.
• FinTech: Secure mobile banking and expense management tools.
• Education: Interactive e-learning platforms built to inspire.
• Retail: E-commerce apps with inventory management features.
• Entertainment: Next-gen streaming and OTT platforms.

ValueCoders doesn’t just hand over the keys and walk away. They stick around to provide updates, fine-tune performance, and roll out new features as your app grows. It’s this ongoing support that makes them a favorite among startups.

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9 - Topflight Apps

Topflight Apps is renowned for its ability to deliver custom application services tailored to the unique challenges and goals of startups. With expertise in cutting-edge technologies like React Native, Flutter, and Node.js, they help transform big ideas into scalable, high-performing applications. Their MVP-first approach ensures startups can quickly test and validate concepts while building a strong foundation for long-term success.

Proven Success Stories

• Smarter Symptom Tracker: Developed a mobile and web solution for the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre, enabling patients to track symptoms, refill prescriptions, and communicate with doctors seamlessly.
• Geneium: Built a teledermatology app that connects users with skin care experts, making dermatological consultations more accessible than ever.
• Southwire: Designed an IoT companion app to help users manage and monitor surge protection devices efficiently.

What Sets Topflight Apps Apart

Topflight Apps excels in blending Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to create smarter, more intuitive solutions. From predictive analytics to user behavior-driven personalization, their innovative approach ensures every project delivers real value. By leveraging technologies like Laravel, Plotly.js, and advanced APIs, they ensure their applications are as functional as they are future-proof.

Industry Specializations

Topflight Apps has an impressive track record across diverse industries:

• Healthcare: Telemedicine platforms, symptom trackers, and IoT-enabled medical tools.
• FinTech: Solutions for cryptocurrency management and investment tracking.
• E-commerce: Bespoke marketplaces and customer engagement tools.

Post-Launch Support That Scales

After launch, Topflight Apps continues to deliver value with ongoing technical support, feature updates, and optimization. Their custom application services ensure your app grows and evolves with your business, keeping you ahead of market trends.

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10 - Flatirons Development

Flatirons Development is all about creating digital products that truly make a difference for startups. From product strategy and UX/UI design to development and testing, their team focuses on helping businesses launch impactful solutions. Whether you’re building a custom mobile application, improving user engagement, or scaling your idea, they ensure every product delivers measurable results.

Success Stories

• Osmosis: A game-changing platform for medical education that combines seamless design with powerful functionality, giving students a better learning experience.
• Jombine: A SaaS platform designed to simplify hiring by matching top talent with the right companies, improving recruitment workflows.
• Kindred Box: A unique app that streamlines end-of-life planning, offering users a secure and thoughtful way to prepare for the future.

What Makes Flatirons Stand Out

Flatirons Development brings more than technical skills to the table—they help startups build products that matter. Their team of seasoned developers, product managers, and designers takes a hands-on approach, crafting custom solutions that solve real-world problems. Their ability to tailor each project to client needs sets them apart in the custom app creation space.

Proven Expertise Across Industries

Flatirons has experience working with a wide range of industries, offering tailored solutions for every challenge:

• Healthcare: Platforms like Osmosis that redefine how professionals learn and access medical content.
• Human Resources: Tools like Jombine that enhance recruitment efficiency for growing businesses.
• End-of-Life Planning: Solutions such as Kindred Box, which bring ease and organization to a deeply personal process.

Flatirons provides ongoing support with user testing, quality assurance, and post-launch optimization, ensuring your app stays effective and grows with your startup.

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Custom Mobile App Development FAQ

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1. How much does it cost to build a custom mobile app?

The cost of a custom mobile app depends on its complexity, features, and platforms. Simple apps cost $20,000–$50,000, while complex ones, like e-commerce or AI-powered apps, range from $100,000–$250,000. Factors like design, development, and testing also impact costs. Use our App Cost Calculator to get an accurate estimate.

2. Is it cheaper to build an app or a website?

Building a website is typically cheaper than an app due to simpler design and development processes. Websites range from $5,000–$30,000, while apps often exceed $20,000. Apps, however, provide better engagement, offline capabilities, and access to native device features.

3. How do I legally create an app?

To legally create an app:

1. Ensure your idea doesn’t infringe on existing patents.
2. Register trademarks or copyrights for your intellectual property.
3. Adhere to app store guidelines and data protection laws like GDPR or CCPA.
4. Include a privacy policy for user transparency.

Consult a legal advisor to protect your app idea.

4. Can I create an app without coding?

Yes, no-code platforms like Bubble, FlutterFlow, and Adalo let you build apps without coding. These tools provide drag-and-drop interfaces, pre-built templates, and integrations for features like payments or user authentication. Ideal for MVPs or prototypes.

5. How long does it take to build a mobile app?

A mobile app takes:

• 2–3 months for simple apps with basic features.
• 6–12 months for complex apps like marketplaces or AI-driven platforms.

Timelines depend on the development process, design, and testing phases.

6. What is the best platform to build a mobile app?

For native apps, use:

• Swift for iOS
• Kotlin for Android

For cross-platform apps, Flutter and React Native are ideal, offering fast development and consistent performance across devices.

7. Is it worth hiring a mobile app development company?

Yes, hiring a mobile app development company is worth it for startups needing professional-quality apps. Companies handle design, development, testing, and updates, ensuring scalability and compliance with industry standards.

8. How do I choose a mobile app development company?

Choose a company by evaluating:

1. Portfolio: Look for relevant experience.
2. Client Reviews: Check feedback on platforms like Clutch.
3. Expertise: Ensure they work with the technologies you need.
4. Support: Confirm they offer post-launch support.

Transparency in pricing and clear communication are also crucial.

9. Is mobile app development still profitable?

Yes, mobile apps are highly profitable, generating over $500 billion globally in 2023. Apps with strong monetization models like subscriptions, in-app purchases, or advertising can achieve long-term success.

10. How to build a mobile app from scratch?

To build a mobile app from scratch:

1. Define your target audience and app features.
2. Create wireframes or prototypes.
3. Choose development tools like Flutter or Swift.
4. Build, test, and refine your app.
5. Launch it on app stores and collect user feedback.

Use resources like Ptolemay’s App Cost Calculator for better planning.

Take the First Step with the Right Custom Mobile App Development Company

Here’s the thing: the success of your app doesn’t start with code—it starts with clarity. What features do you really need? What will it cost? How soon can it launch? That’s where most startups stumble, but it doesn’t have to be you.

Our free App Cost Calculator isn’t just a tool—it’s a flashlight in the fog. In just minutes, you’ll have a clear roadmap: features, costs, and timelines. No guessing. No wasting time. The first step to finding the right custom mobile app development company is knowing exactly what you need. Let’s make it happen.

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