Mobile App Validation
Validate your mobile app idea with AI analysis of app store competition, development costs, monetization models, and user acquisition. Validate before you code.
Mobile App Validation Checklist
App Store Analysis
Competition, ratings, downloads, gaps
User Acquisition
CAC estimates, growth channels, ASO
Monetization
IAP, subscription, ads strategy
Platform Choice
iOS vs Android vs both
Dev Costs
No-code vs custom, timeline, budget
Retention
Benchmark retention rates, engagement
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I validate a mobile app idea before building?
IdeaProof validates mobile apps by analyzing: app store competition, user acquisition cost, monetization potential, retention rates, development complexity, and platform choice (iOS/Android/both).
What's the average cost to develop a mobile app?
Simple app: $10K-$50K, Medium complexity: $50K-$150K, Complex (social, marketplace): $150K-$500K+. No-code builders: $5K-$20K.
Should I build for iOS, Android, or both?
iOS first: Higher revenue per user (2-3x), affluent audience. Android first: Larger market (75% global), emerging markets. Both: Maximum reach but 2x development cost.
How do I monetize a free mobile app?
Top models: Freemium (2-5% conversion), Subscriptions ($5-$50/mo), Ads ($0.50-$5 per 1K impressions), Hybrid (Ads + premium tier).
What's a good retention rate for mobile apps?
Day 1: 20-40% (good), Day 7: 10-20% (solid), Day 30: 5-10% (excellent). Gaming has lower retention but higher monetization.
What are the biggest mobile app red flags?
Red flags: Requires behavior change, already a dominant app, complex onboarding (> 5 steps), regulatory issues, requires critical mass, no clear monetization.
What is the global mobile app market size?
Global app market was $542 billion in 2023. Consumer spending: $171 billion. Downloads: 255 billion. Growing at 11% CAGR through 2027.
How much does user acquisition cost for apps?
iOS CPI: $1-$5 (utility), $3-$8 (social), $5-$15 (gaming). Android: 30-50% lower. Cost per install varies widely by category and geography.
What's the average app revenue per user?
ARPU varies: Gaming $0.50-$5/month, Utilities $0.10-$1, Social $0.05-$0.50, Dating $2-$10. Top apps can exceed $10 ARPU.
How long does app development take?
MVP: 2-4 months. V1 with core features: 4-6 months. Full product: 6-12 months. Cross-platform adds 50% time. Plan for iterations post-launch.
What app store optimization matters?
Key ASO factors: Keywords (title, description), Screenshots (first 3 crucial), Ratings (4.5+ target), Reviews, Category ranking, Feature graphics.
What's the mobile app failure rate?
77% of users churn within 3 days. 90% of apps are abandoned after first use. Only 0.01% of apps are financially successful. Validation is critical.
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Validate Before You Build
Get app store analysis, cost estimates, and monetization recommendations.
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