Want to learn “How much does AR app development cost?”. In particular, there is no exact cost mentioned anywhere but you can expect the cost in between $5,000 to $120,000+ based on your app needs. Also when it comes to an average cost to develop an AR app, it usually lies between $30,000 to $40,000.
With the advancement in AR technology, people can now easily explore or perform things they just imagine, and that too in real-time.
The global AR market is expected to reach a staggering $90.8 billion by the end of 2028. Also, it has been predicted that the AR industry would reach to $50 billion by the year 2027 in terms of total revenue. That makes the AR technology more exciting and lucrative.
Businesses across various sectors are realizing the immense potential of AR, and they have started investing in AR app development.
Below, in this guide, we’ll explore all the essential information associated to Augmented reality app development cost that help you determine the exact cost to build an AR app for your business.
Ready to discover? Let’s delve deeper together.
Table Of Contents
How Much Does Augmented Reality App Development Cost in 2024 & Beyond?
The price of an AR app depends on several other factors, such as type of an app, the platform chosen, the project timeline, features and functionalities, and its overall complexity.
AR App Development Cost Based on Complexity
If you’re uncertain about the expenditure associated with building augmented reality apps, the following table will give you a general approximation.
App Complexity
Average Cost
Simple AR Application
$5,000 to $40,000
Medium-sized AR Applications
$20,000 to $80,000
Complex AR Applications
$100,000 to $120,000
AR App Development Cost Based on Different Regions
Another highly critical factor that impacts the overall app development cost is the region you choose to outsource your project. Therefore, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of the hourly rates associated with each region.
The following table will give you an approximation based on distinct regions.
Region
Cost ($/hour)
North America
$80 to $150
Australia
$60 to $100
South America
$65 to $150
Central Europe
$50 to $250
India
$25 to $150
UK
$40 to $120
AR App Development Cost Based on Distinct App Types
Navigation apps, retail experiences, training simulations
Complex AR App
$200,000 – $400,000
High
High-fidelity graphics, real-time data integration, advanced AI features, custom development
AR social games, interactive marketing campaigns, medical applications
Key Factors Impacting the Cost of Augmented Reality App Development
The following table highlights the primary factors that can influence the overall cost of app development.
Factors that Impact the Cost of Augmented Reality App Development
Description
Project Brief
The cost of your app depends on the type of your app, the platform you choose, your target audience, the estimated timeline, and your overall project requirements.
Timeline
The timeline involved in creating an app also impacts the cost. Simple apps take between 4-6 weeks, though, complex apps take between 3-6 months or so.
Company’s Expertise & Skillset
Another critical factor that affects the overall AR app development cost is the company you hire. For instance, if the company has years of experience and technical prowess, it will charge more as compared to a company that is new in the market.
Geo-location
The company’s geo-location also plays an important role when it comes to deciding the cost of an AR app.
Augmented Reality App Development Cost Calculation Formula
With the help of the following formula, you can precisely calculate the cost of developing an Augmented Reality (AR) app.
Total AR App Development Cost = Time Required to Build an AR App x Hourly Rate of Developers’ / The Development Company
Now, let’s break down part of the formula for better understanding.
Time Required to Develop an AR App
This refers to the total number of hours it will take to complete the development of your AR app. Connect with any leading app development company, define your project’s scope, and other requirements and discover the exact hours your app would take.
Suppose your app takes 150 hours in order to complete. Now, add that figure in the given formula.
Developers’ / Development Team’s Hourly Rate
Next, you need to determine the estimate cost developers’ charges or the company’s most usually charge. Let’s assume that the business you hire charges $50/hr.
Now, put these values in place, you can calculate the total cost as follows:
Total AR App Development Cost = 200 Hours x $50/Hour = $10,000+
It’s essential to note that this is just an approximation. The final cost to build an AR app depends on multiple factors. Reach out to any expert application development company, and determine the exact time and cost to build your dream app.
Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that seamlessly integrates digital data or virtual content into the real world environment. It gives a whole new complete look to the world around us, thus, transforming the way we perceive and interact with our surroundings.
This tremendous technology operates via specialized AR-enabled devices like smartphones, smart glasses, and AR headsets, that are equipped with cameras, sensors, and processors. These components aids in connecting physical objects and environments in real time.
But the most crucial question here is, “How this technology works?” When a user engages with an AR application, the device’s camera captures the surrounding environment, and the AR software processes this visual data in real-time. You can take an example of AR zone app and see how this technology works splendidly. Afterward, it then aligns the digital content with the physical world and displays it on the device’s screen or through a headset’s display.
To summarize, AR technology is making waves in several industries, including gaming, travel, education, sports, healthcare, food, and retail.
Types of Augmented Reality Applications
In order to develop an augmented reality app, you will need to consider the goals you want to achieve with your application. Here are some types of AR solutions:
A marker-based augmented reality system
AR based on location
A projection of augmented reality
Augmented reality based on superimposition
Certainly, here’s a table with two columns for your topic “Types of Augmented Reality Applications.”
The first column lists the types of AR applications, and the second column provides features and explanations for each type:
Types of AR Application
Features of AR Application
Projection-based AR
– Utilizes video projection to send data like images on 3D objects.
– Allows users to freely move within a space.
– Easier to execute high-quality images that regular lighting may not reveal.
Marker-based AR
– Identifies physical images, 3D models, and markers with AR apps.
– Utilizes the mobile’s back camera to track various markers.
Markerless AR
– Scans the surrounding environment without markers.
– Relies on camera, device location, and accelerometer for operation.
Location-based AR
– Depends on GPS, digital compass, and smartphone cameras for location tracking.
– Maps digital content based on predetermined locations.
Superimposition AR
– Creates a different view of an object, fully or partially replacing it.
– Can replace either a part or the entire surrounding using AR technology.
SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping)
– Utilizes simultaneous localization and mapping for AR environment awareness.
– Enables the device to understand its position and map the surroundings.
Things to Consider for Building Augmented Reality App
1. Select the Right AR App Development Tools
Here is a list of top AR app development tools, their ratings, key features, and supported platforms to help streamline your app development process:
Tools
Ratings (G2)
Features
Platform Support
Vuforia
4.2/5 (52 Reviews)
– Offers multiple trackable targets.
– Classifies images, objects, and environments effectively.
– Features markerless tracking and image recognition.
– Supports object tracking and geo-based AR applications.
– Provides 3D model rendering and SLAM technology.
– Android
– iOS
Kudan AR
4.0/5 (29 Reviews)
– Offers marker-based and markerless tracking.
– Supports image recognition and natural feature tracking.
– Provides offline functionality for AR experiences.
– Android
– iOS
2. Perform In-depth Market Research
To ensure a successful app development process, conduct comprehensive market research by following these steps:
Firstly discover and analyze similar applications available on Google Play Store and the App Store.
Afterward, download these mobile apps in order to assess their features and functionalities and compile a list of areas where you can enhance your app.
Finally, in the end evaluate the user interface, user experience, and features of various AR applications to ensure your app offers an exceptional experience to users.
Steps
Time Duration
Explore similar applications in app stores.
2 weeks
Download and evaluate these apps for features.
3 weeks
Assess user interface, experience, and features.
4 weeks
3. Set Your Requirements In-line
After completing market research, the next step is to define your app development requirements.
In that phase, specify the features you want to include in your app. Afterward, think about which type of app you want to create, whether its native, hybrid, or cross platform.
Lastly, choose the appropriate app development platform, like iOS, Android, native or hybrid. We recommend you to opt hybrid app development as there are endless reasons for associated with them.
Moreover, hybrid apps are generally less expensive to develop than native apps, as they can be built using web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. This means that developers can reuse code across different platforms, which can save time and money. Want to learn complete breakdown of hybrid app development cost, our following article will help you with that.
Requirements
Time Duration
– Define desired features.
1-2 days
– Choose between native or hybrid app.
3-4 days
– Select the app development platform.
2-3 days
4. Define the App Development Process
When finalizing your app idea, it’s highly imperative that you must define the app development process.
Choose between hiring an AR app development company or opting for a team of AR app developers for your project.
Share your project requirements with your chosen development team and finalize the project’s cost and timeline to avoid any chaotic circumstances later.
Establish clear and effective communication channels with your development team to minimize misunderstandings and streamline the development process.
Development Decisions
Time Duration
Pricing (if applicable)
– Decide between hiring a company or a team.
1 week
$10,000 to $120,000
– Share project requirements and finalize cost.
2 week
$10,000 to $50,000
– Maintain clear communication with the team.
Ongoing
–
Please note that the following time durations and pricing are just estimates as the total may vary based on the complexity and scale of your specific AR app development project.
It’s essential to consult with professional development team to get more accurate pricing.
Development Process of AR App
Design architecture
3rd party APIs integration
Setup and basic controls
Data storage
Encryption/Description
Scalability
The average time is 400-800 hours based on project complexity. So if suppose company charge you $20 per hour then it may cost you $8000–$16000.
Design Process of AR App
Mockup creation
3D graphic models
UI/UX design
Visual design
Animations
The average time is 200-300 hours. So if suppose company charge you $20 per hour then it may cost you $4000-$6000.
Of course, all the above costs are averaged and the duration of the development listed are only approximations. And the length of each part is highly dependent on each and every individual augmented reality application. It may cost you less than average sometimes, or go far beyond.
Augmented Reality Applications in Practice: Industry Use Cases
Manufacturing Industry: Enhancing Precision and Efficiency
Augmented Reality (AR) empowers the manufacturing sector by reducing errors and enhancing productivity through 3D visualization, streamlining decision-making processes.
Benefits of AR in Manufacturing Industry
How AR Transforms Manufacturing
Error Reduction: Precision is paramount in manufacturing. AR interfaces seamlessly integrate with the workplace, simplifying interactions with robots and equipment.
AR in factories elevates productivity and problem-solving, minimizing errors in production.
3D Visualization: AR converts prototypes into 3D models, facilitating effective decision-making and increasing efficiency.
3D modules augment prototypes, enhancing the user experience and boosting business profits.
Education Industry: A New Era of Learning
AR revolutionizes education with visual learning aids and interactive experiences, driving the global AR education market to an estimated $80 billion by 2031.
Benefits of AR in Education Industry
How AR Transforms Education
Visual Learning: AR offers visual representations that enhance students’ ability to process and retain information accurately.
The integration of audio, video, and interactive games through AR makes learning engaging and captivating.
Innovative Training: AR introduces innovative technologies into corporate training and development, revolutionizing the education landscape.
The global AR education market is set to reach $80 billion by 2031, with AR offering personalized and interactive learning experiences.
Healthcare Industry: A Vision for Better Health
AR facilitates patient understanding and fuels the growth of the healthcare sector, with the AR healthcare market set to reach $4.2 billion by 2026. To learn more about the contribution of Augmented Reality in healthcare, check out our blog to get detailed insights.
Benefits of AR in the Healthcare Industry
How AR Transforms Healthcare
Patient Understanding: AR aids in patient understanding by utilizing 3D models to explain medical procedures and treatment effects.
AR facilitates pharmaceutical companies in demonstrating complex medical processes, enhancing patient comprehension.
Growth and Innovation: The AR healthcare market is set to grow from $609.60 million in 2018 to an estimated $4,237.60 million by 2026, driven by a 27.4% CAGR.
AR innovations empower life sciences companies to deliver advanced therapies and medical devices to patients effectively.
Fashion and Beauty Industry: A Virtual Makeover
In the fashion and beauty realm, AR offers contactless beauty exploration and informed choices, contributing to a thriving industry expected to grow at a 25.5% CAGR.
Augmented Reality (AR) has transcended the realm of science fiction to become a transformative force across diverse industries. Let’s explore how AR applications are revolutionizing different sectors and delivering exceptional value.
Benefits of AR in Fashion and Beauty Industry
How AR Transforms Fashion and Beauty
Contactless Beauty: AR tools allow consumers to explore makeup and cosmetics safely and virtually, enhancing their shopping experience.
The beauty and fashion industry, experiencing a 25.5% CAGR, leverages AR to provide a virtual try-on experience for consumers, boosting confidence and sales.
Informed Choices: AR eliminates guesswork by enabling users to visualize makeup colors and products.
Users can see themselves trying on makeup in the virtual world. This allows them making informed selections with ease.
Is Making Augmented Reality App Beneficial?
Perhaps you may wonder is making AR apps beneficial for your business? Undeniably, the answer is yes—developing an AR app can offer significant advantages for your business by creating distinctive digital experiences.
One of the primary advantages of developing augmented reality applications is their ability to boost user engagement and enhance user experience, which will ultimately increase revenue for your business.
Also, you can predict its importance with the following statistics.
A detailed overview of these benefits is presented in the following table:
Benefits of AR App Development
Description
Examples
Enhances User Experience
AR seamlessly blends physical and digital experiences without requiring additional software or hardware. A prime example is ‘Pokemon Go,’ offering the entire Pokemon universe on a mobile device.
‘Pokemon Go’ transforms the real world into a Pokemon hunting ground.
Streamlines Work and Enhances Accuracy
Industries employ AR applications to expedite processes and reduce errors.
Medical professionals use AR apps for precise surgical procedures.
Reduces Cognitive Overload
AR eliminates the need to memorize vast amounts of information, allowing for quicker decision-making without overwhelming users with excessive data.
Field technicians use AR to access equipment manuals instantly.
Increases Safety and Training Efficiency
AR aids in creating immersive safety training scenarios for employees, reducing workplace accidents. It also enhances training efficiency by providing hands-on, real-time guidance.
Firefighters utilize AR to simulate firefighting scenarios for training.
Fosters Interactive Marketing
AR offers interactive marketing opportunities by enabling users to engage with products virtually, creating a memorable brand experience. It enhances consumer interaction and product understanding.
Retail brands use AR for interactive product demonstrations and virtual try-ons.
These benefits underscore the value of AR app development in delivering unique and valuable experiences to users.
How Long Does It Take to Build an Augmented Reality (AR) Application?
Building an Augmented Reality (AR) app is an exciting journey as it combines both the virtual and physical worlds. When it comes to find out how long does it take to make a robust AR app, there is no definitive answer for that.
The timeline varies based on distinct factors. Let’s explore all of them one-by-one.
1. App Complexity
First and foremost, the timeline to make an app is based on your app’s complexity.
Simple apps may take 4-6 weeks, on the contrary, intricate, feature-rich apps could take 3-6 months or so. In short, the intricacies involved in your app, no. of features and functionalities included in your app. All these parameters will help you analyze the time duration to make an app for your business.
2. Technical Expertise & Skillset
Another imperative factor that plays a huge role to determine the timeline for your app is how much proficient the company you hire. You need to figure out how much technical prowess and years of experience they possess. Having a veteran team on would ultimately saves you times and money both.
3. UI/UX Design
UI/UX design is another essential parameter that helps you discover the timeline to develop an app for business. The creation of 3D models, animations, and visual assets, all these contributes to the development time.
4. Features & Functionalities
The no. of features and functionalities integrated in your app will eventually affect the timeline. Features like geolocation, real-time data processing, and complex interactions demand more development hours as compared to simple apps with limited requirements.
5. Testing and Quality Assurance
Testing and quality assurance also significantly influences the timeline for your AR app. It plays a huge role, as you need to assure you app must be free from bugs, and any serious errors. More rigorous examination will ultimately elongate the development time.
6. Type of Platform
The type of platform you choose has also a major effect on the time duration. For instance, Android apps take more time comparatively iOS apps. Also, you need to ensure whether your app is compatible across different devices, screen sizes, and operating systems.
7. Feedback and Iteration
Iteration is a valuable aspect when it comes to app development, but it can also impact the timeline to make an AR app.
Here’s a table illustrating the estimated development time for different AR app types.
Understanding the Prerequisites for Augmented Reality App Development
In order to have a high-end AR application, it’s important to have clear and comprehensive requirements.
This documentation will help you and the development company to easily work and understand your prerequisites for your app. Hence, make sure you thoroughly write down all the essential information associated to your app idea. We recommend you to include visuals like images, sketches, or wireframes to illustrate these requirements smoothly.
You can also create a prototype based on your documentation. Without well-defined requirements, you can’t accurately estimate the cost and timeline to develop an AR app.
Risks and Challenges of Building an Augmented Reality Application
Developing an augmented reality application comes with its set of risks and challenges. These include potential legal issues related to intellectual property rights and much more.
Additionally, addressing concerns about user addiction and the secure storage of sensitive personal information also plays a significant role.
Furthermore, implementing parental controls to prevent unauthorized in-app purchases, especially by children, is another essential consideration that adds to risks and challenges.
To summarize, you must make sure your AR app meets all the standardized rules and regulations to avoid any challenging situations later.
Why Choose Trango Tech for Augmented Reality App Development?
Choosing the right partner for your AR app development is a critical decision, and at Trango Tech, we stand out as a premium choice in order to develop AR apps.
Here’s why you should consider us for your AR app development project;
Expertise in Latest Technologies
Trango Tech is equipped with a team of skilled developers and designers that are well-versed in augmented reality technology. Our expertise lies in creating captivating AR experiences that takes your app into new exciting world.
Tailored Solutions
We understand that one size does not fit all. Trango Tech is committed to delivering customized AR solutions that align perfectly with your specific goals and requirements.
Efficiency and Timeliness
We recognize the importance of timely delivery. Our agile development process ensures that your AR app is of highest quality and should be delivered on time.
Client-Centric Focus
Our client’s satisfaction is our utmost priority, and we strive to exceed your expectations in every aspect of the development process.
Cutting-Edge Technology
We stay ahead of the curve when it comes to AR technology. Our proficient developers and designers leverage the latest tools and advancements to provide you with the most innovative and up-to-date solutions.
End-to-End Services
From conceptualization to deployment, our team offers comprehensive end-to-end services. Contact us today to turn your AR vision into reality.
How to Successfully Grow Your Augmented Reality Application?
To foster the growth of an augmented reality application, consider implementing strategies that encourage user engagement and community building.
Also, you can invite your friends, and other users to promote your app. Additionally, you can offer promotional deals, such as free in-game currency, in-app purchases, or so. Moreover, you can offer virtual goods and rewards, too.
Ready to Develop Your AR App?
Reach to Our AR App Developers Today.
Final Thoughts
Needless to say, AR technology has transformed the way users and interact and perceive in the real world environment. In the above blog post, we have shed light on all the imperative information that helps you determine how much does it cost to develop an Augmented Reality application for your business.
We hope you find our blog useful and informative. Connect with us today at Trango tech, and let us assist you with all your app needs.
Q1. How to Choose any Reputable AR App Development Company?
The following factors help you find out the best AR development company that aids in taking your business to higher levels.
Portfolio
Evaluate the company’s portfolio and determine whether the company you hire have expertise in developing similar projects as per your requirements. It’s crucial to choose a company with a versatile portfolio that demonstrates its ability to adapt to different project requirements.
Technological Expertise
Ensure that the company you employ uses the latest AR tools and technologies or not. Also, determine whether they have a proven track record of delivering high-quality, immersive AR experiences or not.
Their technological prowess should extend beyond the tools to encompass creative and innovative solutions that align best with your vision.
Communication and Collaboration
Partner with an AR app development company that excels in clear communication and collaboration.
This involves the ability to understand your vision, actively involve you in the development process, and provide regular updates on project milestones.
Effective communication fosters a strong partnership, ensuring your ideas are translated into reality seamlessly.
Post-Launch Support and Maintenance
Consider the company’s approach to post-launch support and maintenance. Your AR app’s journey doesn’t end with its release; it’s an ongoing process.
Choose a company that offers reliable support for updates, bug fixes, and enhancements to ensure the app remains cutting-edge and free of technical glitches.
Q2. How Much Time Does It Take to Develop an AR App?
The timeline to develop a basic AR app typically falls within the range of 100 to 150 hours. On the other hand, complex apps take between 120-200 hours or so. In short, it’s important to note that the exact duration can vary based on factors such as the app’s complexity, the expertise of development team, and your app’s budget.
Q3. What is the Typical Cost to Build an Augmented Reality App?
The typical cost of building a simple augmented reality app lies between $5,000 to $40,000. On the flipside, complex apps cost between $15,000 to $70,000.
In short, there is no definitive cost found anywhere to develop an AR app. The total cost depends on various factors. Some of them are;
Mariam Amin is an Electronics Engineering graduate. As a content marketer working in the app development company, with her insights on engineering and digital strategy, she showcases informative guides and content that is built on imparting knowledge. When away from marketing and the digital landscape, you can find her looking over the food industry, and fitness trends, and catching up on a documentary or a movie.