Mobile app development in Johannesburg
We design and build iOS and Android apps for South African businesses — from the first prototype through to launch on the App Store and Google Play.
Start small, then grow
A good app solves one problem really well: bookings, orders, field reports, customer accounts or an internal tool. A bad one tries to do everything and gets deleted within a week. We begin by getting clear on the problem and the people who will use the app, then build the smallest useful version first.
That first version, often called an MVP, lets you test your idea with real users before you invest in every feature. Once it is proven, we grow it with you. We are based in Johannesburg and work with businesses across South Africa.
What's included
- Planning: user flows, screens and a feature list agreed before building starts.
- App design in Figma, so you see and approve every screen first.
- iOS and Android apps that feel native and run smoothly.
- Back end and database where the app needs to store or sync data.
- User accounts and logins where they are needed.
- Connections to the tools you already use, such as payments, notifications or your existing systems.
- Sensible handling of patchy connectivity where it matters for your users.
- Testing on real devices before release.
- App Store and Google Play submission support.
- Handover and documentation so nothing is a mystery.
How it works
- Discover. We get clear on the problem, the people who will use the app, and the smallest useful first version.
- Design. You see and approve the screens and flows in Figma before any development starts.
- Build. We build and test the app on real devices, with the back end and accounts it needs.
- Launch & Support. We help you publish to the App Store and Google Play, then keep improving and supporting the app.
Pricing
App projects are quoted individually after we understand what you need. What affects the price:
- Whether you need iOS, Android or both.
- The number of screens and features.
- User accounts and an admin dashboard.
- The back end and any integrations with other systems.
- Ongoing support after launch.
Apple and Google also charge their own developer fees (Apple yearly, Google once-off). Those are paid to them, not to us. Starting with a focused first version is the best way to keep the budget under control. Tell us your idea and we will reply within one business day.
Typical timeline
A focused first version typically takes about 2 to 4 months from kickoff to release, including design, development, testing and app-store review. More complex apps take longer, and your quote will include a schedule you can plan around.
Tech we use
We typically use React and TypeScript for the app, Node.js or Python for the back end, AWS for hosting and Figma for design. We pick the tools that suit your project rather than forcing every app into the same mould.
Mobile app FAQ
How much does an app cost in South Africa?
Costs vary widely with the number of features, the platforms and the back end. We quote each app individually. Building a focused first version first is the most reliable way to keep costs sensible.
Do you build for both iOS and Android?
Yes. We can build for both, or start with one platform and add the other later, depending on where your customers are.
Do I need an app, or is a website enough?
Many businesses start with a good website and add an app later. If your customers need to log in, book, order or get notifications often, an app can make sense. We will tell you honestly which fits. See our web design service.
Who publishes the app in the app stores?
Your app is published under your own developer accounts, so you stay in control. We handle the submission process with you.
What happens after the app launches?
Apps need regular updates for new phone software, bug fixes and improvements. Our support and maintenance plans cover this.
Got an app idea?
Tell us what you're building and we'll reply within one business day.