If you’re researching how long it takes to develop an app, you’re probably weighing an idea against time, budget, and business goals.
The truth is, every app development timeline depends on scope, complexity, and priorities — but after more than ten years building custom apps, we can give you realistic ranges and a phase-by-phase breakdown.
In 2025, modern AI tools can reduce time in areas like planning, code generation, and testing — and we use them at Big Fish to help clients move faster without sacrificing quality.
We’ve also written about how much a mobile app costs, if you’re interested in the financial side.
Let’s look at what to expect when planning how long to build an app.
Average App Development Timeline: Phase by Phase
Every app goes through the same core stages, from early planning to launch and beyond.
Here’s what each app development phase looks like and how much time you should expect it to take.
Phase 1: Discovery & Planning (2–4 weeks)
At Big Fish, we call this step the Custom App Blueprint. Before design or coding begins, we define requirements, sketch wireframes, and design the system architecture. We also build the project budget and development roadmap.
Time well spent here prevents wasted effort later — and helps ensure you’re building an app your team (or your customers) will actually use.
Phase 2: Design, Development & Testing (8–24+ weeks)
With a clear plan in place, our team moves into design, development, and testing. This is where the bulk of your app development timeline is spent.
- Simple apps — A few core features, single platform: 8–12 weeks
- Medium complexity apps — Multiple features, third-party integrations, iOS + Android or cross-platform: 3–6 months
- Complex/enterprise apps — Advanced integrations, AI/IoT features, regulatory compliance, or large multi-platform builds: 6–12+ months
Think of it like building a home. A three-bedroom bungalow can be designed and built relatively quickly. A mansion with custom features (e.g. outdoor kitchen, in-law suite, in ground pool) takes far more time.
AI tools can accelerate some tasks, like generating boilerplate code or running automated tests, but they don’t eliminate the need for careful architecture, human oversight, and rigorous QA.
Phase 3: Final Review & Deployment (1–4 weeks)
After features are built and tested, it’s time for a final review before launch, then deployment. This includes:
- A last round of client sign-off
- Final bug fixes, if applicable
- Deployment to production
- App Store and Google Play submission
App store approvals can be as quick as a few days, but rejections or compliance reviews may add time.
Phase 4: Post-Launch Iteration & Maintenance (ongoing)
Your app launch is not the finish line. Apps require ongoing care — updates, bug fixes, new features, and optimizations based on real-world use.
How Long Does It Take to Build an App in 2025?
Adding up these phases, here’s what you can realistically expect for an app development timeline:
- Simple MVP: 2–3 months
- Medium complexity app: 4–6 months
- Complex/enterprise app: 6–12+ months
Keeping Your App Development Timeline on Track
The biggest factor in your app development timeline is prioritization.
If you want to get to market quickly, start with an MVP and save non-essential features for version two.
Other ways to save time developing an app while remaining realistic:
- Define requirements clearly during discovery
- Work with an experienced team (Big Fish has 10+ years in custom app development)
- Use agile iterations with frequent demos and feedback
- Build in buffer time for testing and approvals
Final Word
So, how long does it take to develop an app?
Depending on complexity, anywhere from 2 months for a simple MVP to 12+ months for enterprise-grade builds. What matters most is that your app development timeline matches your business priorities — and gets your idea into the hands of real users as soon as possible.
At Big Fish, every project begins with our Software Blueprint. It’s a fixed-fee discovery sprint that gives you clarity on scope, timeline, and budget before a single line of code is written.
If your company is planning to build a custom mobile app, let’s talk. We’ll create a blueprint tailored to your vision and give you the confidence to move forward.
