Tarun Nagar 
“Language shapes the way we think, and determines what we can think about.” – Benjamin Lee Whorf.
Quick Summary: Are you thinking of creating your own language learning app like HelloTalk? If yes, then you have reached the correct place. Read this blog to know everything from the steps to build an app like HelloTalk, costs, features and so on.
Have you ever dreamt of chatting with native speakers, mastering a new language, and making friends around the globe – all from your smartphone? Apps like HelloTalk have revolutionized language learning, turning the world into a classroom where conversations fuel fluency and connect millions through the magic of language exchange. But the question is, “Why and how to build an app like HelloTalk?”.
The worldwide industry for online language classes is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 13.74% between 2023 and 2030. Is this data enough to convince you to build your own language-learning app like HelloTalk? This data shows that the rise of language learning apps will be doubled. You will have the opportunity to earn real money when you create your own language-learning app.
Thus, this blog will discuss the HelloTalk app development process, its unique features, costs, and other essential aspects that will help you build an amazing app like HelloTalk.
So, let’s begin.
Table of Contents
What is a HelloTalk App?
HelloTalk is a language learning app that permits users to practice different languages they want to learn. It links native speakers of a language with learners of that language and the other way around. It is a free app but users may upgrade for additional perks like unlimited translations and voice call recording.
Users can utilize this app and talk to others as it provides over 100 languages, including French, Spanish, Korean, Chinese, and so on. Additionally, it comes with built-in tools like instant captions and corrections that ease communication.
So, if you are planning to build an app like HelloTalk for your business, then it is better to consult with experienced iOS or Android app developers.
Market Stats of Language Learning Apps!
- In Vietnam, Duolingo achieved almost 10 million downloads between January and October 2023, while users in Japan downloaded the famous language learning program roughly 2.8 million times.
- The market size of the global language learning digital apps in English is expected to reach 5.1 billion euros by 2025.
- The top popular learning language mobile applications globally brought in approximately 27 million dollars from in-app purchases in February 2022.
- Cake is one of the best Korean language learning apps, with around 890 thousand downloads in 2023.
- Over 8.7 million downloads of this powerful language-learning program worldwide were recorded throughout that month, according to its own green mascot.
Steps to Build An App Like HelloTalk
Developing a language learning app like HelloTalk requires thorough planning and research. It can be quite a challenging task, but with the assistance of app development experts, you can easily build your own language-learning app. Let’s first check out the process to build an app like HelloTalk.
1. Define Your Objectives
Clarify the goals of your language learning app like HelloTalk and determine who your intended user base is before you start developing. Recognize the special qualities that will make your app stand out. Take into account variables like user demographics, preferred language, and learning objectives.
2. Choose the Right Technology Stack
If you want your language learning app to be successful, you must pick the accurate framework & tech stack. Select a flexible database, a dependable backend architecture, and an appropriate programming language. However, if you want to build an app for the iOS platform, getting help from iPhone app developers will be better.
Select a framework or library for the front end based on your development objectives. To guarantee compatibility across many devices, consider utilizing cross-platform development technologies.
3. Design User-Friendly Interface
Once you have chosen the tech stack, you should make an interface that is simple to operate and clear to enable effortless language conversation. Clarity and simplicity are the top priorities for the UI of your app. The designers will include functions like audio and video calls, messaging, user profiles, and language exchange matching.
4.Build An App Like HelloTalk
Now you should start the backend development. But first, you should hire a mobile app development company that can manage user data, communications, and app functionality and create a solid backend architecture. Also, to safeguard user data, the development team put secure authentication and permission procedures in place. To guarantee a seamless and safe user experience, regularly maintain your backend.
5. Test & Deploy
Now the testers will ensure that the language learning app is fully tested to find and address any bugs or usability problems. With a small user base, they perform alpha/beta testing to get reviews and create the required reconciliation. Once it is tested, you can easily publish it on the app store by following the guidelines.
Some Popular Language Learning Apps
HelloTalk is a language-learning app with over 40 million active users. So, if you also need to create your own fantastic app like HelloTalk, then you must know your rival apps. Let’s have a look at the best education apps listed below.
| Apps like HelloTalk | Available Platform | Downloads | Ratings |
| Cake | Android | iOS | 100M | 4.8 |
| Duolingo | Android | iOS | 500M | 4.7 |
| Elsa Speak | Android | iOS | 10M | 4.6 |
| Babbel | Android | iOS | 50M | 4.6 |
| Busuu | Android | iOS | 10M | 4.6 |
1. Cake
Cake is the best Korean language learning app, with 10 million active users. It facilitates multiple learning methods like videos, quizzes, games, audio clips and so on. Also, it enables users to select their learning pace and focus on the topic that interests them. So, you should build an app like Cake by integrating unique features in it with the help of developers.
2. Duolingo
A language learning app like Duolingo has been famous and downloaded by millions of users worldwide. Its lessons are designed by language experts and based on scientific research on language learning. It is a free-to-use app that makes it a great option for budget-conscious learners.
3. Elsa Speak
Another popular AI English online learning app like Elsa Speak, uses AI technology to listen to users speak English. It analyzes users’ voices using AI technology and gives them customized responses.
4. Babbel
Babbel is a language-learning app that has 50 million downloads. Its accent training function focuses on fixing typical errors in pronunciation that non-native speakers make. An app like Babbel is created to fit conveniently into the user’s hectic schedule, with lessons that take only 10-15 minutes to complete.
5. Busuu
The Busuu app is a language teaching tool that provides a thorough and engaging method for learning fourteen different languages. The lessons feature practical vocabulary and everyday conversation topics, preparing you for real-world interactions.
Key Features To Build An App Like HelloTalk
Features are necessary for the success of your language learning app. So, it is crucial to get help from experts while integrating the features in your HelloTalk app. Let’s now have a look at the features listed below.
● User Profiles
Users can create comprehensive profiles, including language proficiency, learning goals, and interests. It helps in matching users effectively and promotes a sense of community.
● In-App Messaging
Provide a user-friendly chat interface for seamless communication between language exchange partners. Features like voice messaging and multimedia sharing enhance the learning experience.
● Translation Tools
Hire dedicated developers who can integrate translation tools and features to assist users in understanding and learning from conversations. It can include real-time translation and language correction features.
● Voice and Video Calls
This feature allows users to make voice and video calls for more immersive language practice. This feature allows real-time pronunciation correction and fosters an in-depth connection between users.
● Community Forums
Foster a sense of community by incorporating discussion forums where users can ask questions, share insights, and seek advice from a larger language learning community.
● Progress Tracking
Provide a function that lets users monitor their progress in learning a language. This might contain data on language acquired, practice hours, and accomplishments of goals.
● Language Pair Matching
You should hire mobile app developers to incorporate a sophisticated algorithm that matches users based on their language preferences, proficiency levels, and learning goals. It ensures meaningful language exchange partnerships.
● Offline Mode
Give users the option to view previously downloaded material offline so they may keep practicing even when they’re not online. It enhances the usability of your app like HelloTalk.
● Gamification
When you build an app like HelloTalk, integrate gamification features such as badges, challenges, and rewards to motivate users to engage consistently. It puts some enjoyment and competitiveness into the task of learning a language
How Much Does It Cost to Build An App Like HelloTalk?
The cost to build an app like HelloTalk may range between $8,000-$25,000 or more, depending on the factors. Technology upgrades and time are also responsible for the fluctuation in the cost.
However, it is vital to know that if you build an AI-powered language learning app, then it would increase the development cost. Let’s look at the table showcasing the app complexity of mobile app development cost.
| Complexity | Cost Estimation |
| Simple App | $8,000-$14,000 |
| Medium App | $15,000-$20,000 |
| Complex App | $25,000 |
Moreover, you can measure the cost to build an app like HelloTalk by using the formula below:
HelloTalk app development cost = Developer’s hourly rate * Total development time
So, if you want to build language learning apps to boost your education business, you must contact an iOS or Android app development company. They might provide you with an actual app development cost and time with a proper development approach.
How Much Does It Cost To Maintain An App Like HelloTalk?
Now you are clear about the cost to build an app like HelloTalk, it is time to maintain your language learning app. But before that, you must determine the app maintenance cost of HelloTalk.
It can be 15-20% of initial language learning app development. For instance, if your English learning app like HelloTalk costs $25000, then the app maintenance cost will be between $3750 and $5000 annually.
The costs associated with upkeep include hosting servers, software updates, bug repairs, security precautions, and feature improvements. Larger user bases result in increased server hosting prices, which are based on the app’s audience and data storage needs.
So, if you want a regular update and to improve existing features of your app, then it is good to get help from a mobile app maintenance and support services provider. They would do a continuous check on the app and help to improve app features.
Let Dev Technosys Assist You In Creating An App Like HelloTalk!
Now that you understand the procedure to build an app like HelloTalk from start to end, it is peak time that you must give your app concept to life. We have discovered everything from development steps and features to development & maintenance costs.
All you need to do is hire an experienced iPhone app development company like Dev Technosys. We are an award-winning firm that specializes in building mobile apps and websites with the latest technology. Our developers have years of expertise in crafting engaging apps with top-notch quality.
From on-demand language learning apps like Cake to Duolingo, our skilled developers are proficient in creating any type of mobile application. Also, we provide reasonable mobile app development costs.
So, what are you waiting for? Get a free consultation from our experts by sharing your necessary project requirements with them. They will build an app like HelloTalk in your fixed time limit and budget.
Frequently Asked Question!
1. What is a Language Learning App?
A Language Learning App is designed to teach and enhance proficiency in a new language. These apps typically offer interactive lessons, vocabulary exercises, and practice sessions to help users develop listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.
2. How Long Does It Take To Build An App Like HelloTalk?
The time required to build an app like HelloTalk depends on factors such as app complexity, features, functionality, app design, testing, etc. Generally, a simple app can take anywhere from 2-4 months, while a complex app can take 4-7 months or more.
3. How to Monetize An App Like HelloTalk?
To monetize an app like HelloTalk, consider strategies such as offering premium subscription plans with advanced features, in-app purchases for virtual goods or additional functionalities, targeted advertising, and partnerships with language learning services.
4. How Much Does It Cost To Build An App Like HelloTalk?
The cost to build an app like HelloTalk depends on various factors. For instance, app features, project complexity, and app development time. Typically, it can range from $8000 to $25000 or more. Costs may vary based on the development team’s hourly rates, location, and additional design, testing, and maintenance expenses.
5. What Are the Benefits of Creating An App Like HelloTalk?
Language learners may refine their abilities by having real-time talks with native speakers through the development of apps like HelloTalk. It fosters cultural exchange, boosts language proficiency, and provides a global community for users.
