Hi there! 

Are you looking for a video chat app like a monkey? If yes this blog is for you. The booming market for video chat apps, projected to reach the $184.3 million mark by 2028, is driven by the instant connection feature for new people, with India identified as a major driver of growth.

The search for spontaneous social engagement, primarily fueled by Gen Z looking for novel interaction methods, is still prevalent. The promise of explosive user growth, rapid expansion, and multiple avenues for revenue generation makes this space very attractive for entrepreneurs. Monkey promises instant social gratification and the rush of random social interaction. So, if you’re one of the entrepreneurs wanting to enter this market, this is it. 

In this blog, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on building an engaging random video chat application from concept to launch while considering the complexities of the Indian market.

 

What is the Monkey App?

The Monkey App mascots are Monkey.Cool as it is called, Monkey. The app is a free online video chat and social networking application intended for teens. The app was created by Ben Pasternak and Isaiah Turner in 2016 as it strived to build a platform allowing people to meet new friends through random video calls.

The app has been at the forefront of the social media scene due to how fast and chaotic it is, as users get connected for 15-second video chats with strangers. Moreover, users can extend the conversation or add people on Snapchat if they get interested in any of the individuals.

This app, like OnlyFans, already has more than 10 million downloads on the Google Play Store and around 3.9 out of 5 stars from more than 66,000 reviews. 

 

 

How Do Monkey Apps Work?

Unlike other dating apps, Monkey-like apps are more of a social media platform, allowing users from all over the globe to meet each other. Here is a guide to get you started.

 

 

i. Download and Install

Go to your preferred app store, the Google Play Store, or the Apple App Store, and download the app.

 

ii. Create an Account

The next step is to create an account, either via your mobile number, social media, or email, in case you need to verify your age.

 

iii. Set Up Your Profile (Optional)

Add a profile picture and brief details about yourself. Certain apps allow users to add hobbies or favorite songs as well.

 

iv. Start Matching

To begin, click a button saying “Start,” “Connect,” or something similar. 

 

v. Random Video Chat

The app will pair you with another user for a short video call lasting 15 to 30 seconds. 

 

vi. Interact

You can discuss or stay quiet till time runs out. Please remember to keep your manners in check.

 

vii. Extend or Next

When talking to the new person, as long as you find the chat interesting, you can extend the call. If not, tap “Next” or swipe to meet another user. 

 

viii. Add Friends (Optional)

Friend features include letting you add people you have enjoyed chatting with as people you can interact with later from other apps like Snapchat.

 

ix. Explore Features

Explore other features, such as text chat, “moments” adding, or swiping through profiles to find a particular type of connection. 

 

10 Popular Apps Like Monkey 

 

 

App Name	Downloads	Rating	Launch Year	Platforms
Azar	100 Million+	4.3	2014	Android, iOS
Yubo	80 Million+	4.2	2015	Android, iOS
HOLLA	10 Million+	4.2	N/A	Android
LivU	50 Million+	4.3	N/A	Android, iOS
MeetMe	50 Million+	4.3	2005	Android, iOS
Skout	10 Million+	4.1	2007	Android, iOS
Tinder	100 Million+	4.0	2012	Android, iOS, Web
Chatous	500 Thousand	4.2	2013	Android, iOS
Bazoocam	–	–	–	–
Omegle	Defunct (Launched 2009)	N/A	2009	Web

 

Market Stats for Monkey: Random Video Chat

Back in 2024, the global random video chat apps market had a valuation of roughly $126.4 million 

It is expected to grow at a 9.89%, reaching $184.3 million by the end of 2028. India was one of the major players in the 45.3% share of the Asia Pacific region recorded in 2025.

The general messaging app development market, on the other hand, is far wider and recorded a value of $63.78 billion in 2023 and is expected to surpass $213.4 billion by 2030 at a 15.3% CAGR. 

Social networking apps are expected to surge to $310.37 billion by 2030, at a 23.7% CAGR. This suggests that overall, social communication platforms have abundant growth potential.

Based on projections, the ARPU pertaining to spontaneous video chat applications will be approximately $76.58 by the end of 2025.

 

Why Do Entrepreneurs Build An App Like Monkey: Random Video Chat?

Before we take you through the mobile app development process for a random video chat app, we have covered an entrepreneur portable guide that explains the reasons to build a video chat app.

 

 

1. Capitalizing on Social Connection Trends

Like most things in life, these live chatting apps are designed to fulfill human needs and instincts – for younger people, a need to discover new people to chat to. The “random” element makes interactions more interesting and instant without the pressure of organized profiles. People tend to prefer “real” social experiences, particularly in spontaneous settings.

 

ROI Benefit:

In whatever industry, high user engagement increases the possibility of going viral causing an explosion in user acquisition. This tends to interest advertisers or premium subscription services, which ensures great ROI.

 

2. Leveraging the Power of Video

There is an increase in users opting for video communication over text and audio because of how personalized and richer it feels. Websites like Fansly solve the need for visual social communication by allowing people to directly and engagingly connect with one another.

 

ROI Benefit:

Video ads often command higher CPMs (cost per mille). Furthermore, the revenue and returns to investors are bolstered by direct user spending for items like gifts or text-based avatars, humorously dubbed ‘enhanced video filters’.

 

 

3. Creating a Platform for Virality and Rapid Growth

The Unpredictable nature of random connections can lead to some of the most entertaining shareable content. Users might capture some funny or interesting snippets that go viral on other social media, increasing users organically.

 

ROI Benefit:

There’s no denying that marketing expenses are slashed exponentially due to viral growth and user acquisition skyrockets, meaning that profitability is met sooner, leading to greater returns for the investors.

 

4. Meeting the Demand for Instant Gratification and Entertainment: 

In this ever-evolving world, many individuals look for quick entertainment. If you develop an app like Tango, it instantly connects users to different people and provides fluent entertainment for users. 

 

ROI Benefit: Given the entertainment factor, user retention tends to be very high, which guarantees income, whether through advertisement, purchases, or subscriptions, in a way rewarding the business.  

 

5. Potential for Niche Communities and Monetization: 

Even if the main function provided is random connections, these apps have the potential for growth by adding targeted content or communities for easier engagement. This improves chances of customized monetization and several other features for certain groups of users.  

 

ROI Benefit: Niche communities normally exhibit higher amounts of engagement coupled with higher willingness to pay for specific and relevant features or exclusive content, thereby make ARPU greater and the investment more profitable.

 

7 Steps to Build An App Like Monkey: Random Video Chat

To create an app like Monkey, requires careful implementation and planning. In this section, we have covered the stages to build a Random live chat app with the guidance of expert mobile app development companies in the USA: 

 

 

1. Detailed Requirement Gathering & Planning:

Ensure that the goals of your app, including features and audience, and monetization strategies are clearly outlined. Hire mobile app developers to describe the core functionality (random video calls, user profiles), desired features (text chat, filters, matching preferences), user safety (reporting, moderation), and scaling concerns.

Provide thorough documentation to support your requirements so that development companies can provide accurate proposals.

 

What are the primary goals and target user demographics for the app?

Which core features (e.g., video calls, user profiles, text chat) are essential, and which are optional enhancements?

How will we ensure user safety, moderation, and scalability as the user base grows?

 

2. Research and Select a Mobile App Development Company:

Conduct research to prepare a list of mobile app development companies with a positive reputation and a robust portfolio of social networking or video chat apps. Go through their testimonials, reviews, and prior projects.

Consider the company size, their technical specialization and how efficiently they communicate with the clients. Refine your search based on proposed deadlines and budgets alongside vetted company expectations and communication policies.  

 

Does the company have experience building social networking or video conferencing apps with similar functionalities?

What do client reviews and case studies reveal about their delivery timelines, communication practices, and product quality?

How does the company handle changes in scope, budget flexibility, and deadline adjustments?

 

3. Sign a Contract and Establish Communication Channels:

This is the third stage to develop a video conferencing app in which when you’ve identified the best parties to engage with, negotiate a written contract detailing commitment, timeline, payment, and ownership of material IP.

Set preferred modes of communication (e.g., project management blogs, freemium tools) and structure to allow undisturbed contact and honest reports on ongoing work alongside controlled grade evaluations during the entire build cycle.

 

What key terms regarding payment structure, IP ownership, and delivery milestones will be included in the contract?

Which tools (e.g., Trello, Slack, Jira) will be used for ongoing communication and progress tracking?

How frequently will updates, progress reports, and evaluations be provided throughout the project cycle?

 

4. UI/UX Design and Prototyping:

In this stage, you must connect with the video conferencing app development company to help you build wireframes and prototypes showing the app’s screens and workflow. You must hire dedicated developers to provide feedback on design and usability.

This stage to build a video calling app will most impact the user’s experience and engagement with the application. Many entrepreneurs take this stage of development lightly as they think it won’t impact much but it does. the user gets rentain only when you offer good inference for the app.

 

What is the process for reviewing and approving wireframes and prototypes with user flow insights?

How will user feedback be integrated into design iterations to ensure intuitive navigation and high engagement?

What usability testing methods will be employed to refine the design before development?

 

5. App Development (Frontend & Backend):

The Video streaming app development company will work on the live video communication app interface, which includes everything users see and click and the auxiliary systems logic, databases, and APIs (Backend).

The company must ensure that robust video calling features, user management, matching algorithms, and protective measures are included. Delivery and evaluation during this phase must be done regularly.  

 

How will the development team ensure secure, high-quality video streaming and real-time communication?

What tech stack and architecture will be used for scalability, performance, and future integrations?

How will the development be divided into phases for regular delivery and milestone evaluations?

 

6. Testing and Quality Assurance:

To effectively identify problems, every piece of information should be accurately detailed in reports without bias. Smooth performance and issue detection for defined features should undergo thorough scrutiny.

The social media app development company is to perform various types of testing, such as unit testing, integration, and user acceptance testing. Ensure appropriate comments are made on each test build from the developed company.  

 

What types of testing (e.g., unit, regression, user acceptance) will be conducted, and who will be responsible for each?

How will issues and bugs be tracked, documented, and prioritized for resolution?

Will end-user testing sessions be organized to gather actionable feedback before launch?

 

7. Deployment and Post-Launch Support:

Once the application is adequately tested, the development company will take care of the application deployment to the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Discuss support issues, such as fixing bugs, applying different changes, and general maintenance services that may be required for the proper functioning and performance of the video meeting app after its launch. A Video Chat app development company can be considered if hands-on support is required.  

 

What is the process for launching the app on both Android and iOS platforms, and who handles store compliance?

What kind of post-launch maintenance and update support is included in the service agreement?

How quickly can critical bugs or performance issues be addressed post-launch, and what SLAs are in place?

 

 

Features of an App Like Monkey: Random Video Chat  

Many people wonder about the features when they’re with the video calling app development guide. Here, we have curated an amazing list of face-to-face chat app features that you need to know to enter the market with a bang. 

 

 

i. AI-Powered Content Moderation with Regional Sensitivity

Algorithms supported with Indian languages and nuances, like Hindi, which is the state language, perform real-time analysis for various forms of hate speech, nudity, and other inappropriate content.  

 

ii. “Icebreaker” Prompt Generator

Monkey app alternatives assists in breaking the ice and initiating conversations pertaining to festivals, movies, or other general aspects relating to India.  

 

iii. Localized Interest-Based Matching (Optional)

After incurring initial randomness, allow the option to connect with other users sharing common interests within India such as Bollywood, cricket, or local arts.  

 

iv. Short, Engaging Games/Activities During Calls

Promote player engagement by incorporating simple, interactive text-based games such as quick trivia about India or “Would You Rather?” scenarios during brief conversations.  

 

v. “Safe Space” Reporting with Enhanced Evidence Submission

A complete reporting system where users can submit their evidence, such as screenshots or short video clips, ensuring user safety. 

 

vi. Verified Profiles with Optional Localized Badges

The Monkey video app introduces optional trust-contributing badges to users who confirm they are generally located within India (with privacy control mechanisms) and offer profile verification.

 

vii. Real-time Translation for Common Indian Languages

The monkey video chat app expands the functionality of spoken word translation to include video calls, supporting Hindi and frequently spoken Indian languages.

 

viii. Virtual Gifting with Localized Themes

This is one of the best omegle alternatives that enable users to send gifts that celebrate Indian art, cultural symbols, or Indian festivals.

“Second Chance” Connection Feature:

Resume calling with the user if the call drops due to other network issues, allowing a short grace period for reconnection to acknowledge network issues in certain regions.

 

ix. Anonymous Feedback System Post-Call

Monkey app alternatives enable users to anonymously report chat-related behavior issues, which can help enforce policy enforcement action.

 

x. Customizable Avatar System with Indian Ethnic Wear

The chat monkey app adds diversity to avatar clothing and accessories, including Indian garments.

 

xi. “Local Gems” Discovery (Optional, Post-Chat)

After a good show, users around Jaipur can be suggested local attractions or events that they are likely to enjoy, provided that they are both geographically near and also willing.

 

xii. Integration with Local Emergency Services (Discreet)

Monkey app alternatives allow users with special access a hidden way to emergency numbers, medical ones themselves, and other health-related information relevant to medical services.

 

xiii. Educational Content on Safe Online Interactions (Localized)

If you want to develop a video chat app like Omegle, ensure that conduct rules regarding safe usage of the internet, as well as responsible communication, are provided specifically.

 

xiv. Community Guidelines Quiz” During Onboarding

Require new users to abide by the zero tolerance policy whereby failing to complete a few questions appropriately aligned to community guidelines on privileged access, being a community-sensitive policy, incurs severe explicit interaction ban consequences.

 

How Much Does It Cost to Build An App Like a Monkey?

The cost to build an app like a monkey varies depending on the incorporating technologies along with design systems and meeting criteria for real-time video communication.

The cost to build an app like monkey is between $8,000 and $25,000, or sometimes even more. However you must know that there are multiple factors affecting the entire Monkey app development cost which we have covered below in detailed version.

 

 

1. Platform (iOS, Android, or Both)

The choice of developing a native app solely for iOS and Android or a combination of the two significantly impacts the budget. Native apps function better, but come with double the cost to develop an app like monkey in addition to the time required.

Using cross-platform development tools like Flutter and React Native lowers the cost to build an app like Mirami, but diminishes the performance and user interface. 

 

Platform Choice	Description	Estimated Cost
iOS or Android (Single)	Native app on one platform	$3,000 – $5,000
Both (Native)	Separate apps for iOS and Android	$6,000 – $10,000
Cross-Platform (Flutter/React Native)	Shared codebase, slightly lower performance	$4,000 – $7,000

 

2. Video Streaming & Real-Time Communication

In-app audio and video capabilities require WebRTC integration, or the use of third-party services like Agora and Twilio. While these services maintain a fee, using them provides automated aid.

Custom RTC (real-time communication) systems enable greater flexibility when being scaled, and while developing them from scratch can increase overall Monkey app development cost.  

 

Option	Description	Estimated Cost
Third-party APIs (Agora, Twilio)	Plug-and-play RTC solutions with usage-based pricing	$1,500 – $3,000
Custom WebRTC Integration	More control, better scalability, longer development time	$4,000 – $7,000

 

3. User Authentication & Security

Social and email logins require encryption, and moderation features make protecting users and their data easier. Username or password verification as well as multi-factor authentication, leads to more complexity and cost to build an app like Holla. So does age verification, especially for a Monkey chat app that needs to protect their younger users.

 

Feature	Description	Estimated Cost
Basic Login (Email/Social)	Standard login methods with encryption	$800 – $1,500
Multi-factor & Age Verification	Adds complexity and legal safety	$1,500 – $3,000
Content Moderation Controls	Reporting, banning tools	$1,000 – $2,000

 

4. UI/UX Design

Nothing is more critical than user engagement and a seamless experience, which is another factor that raises the cost to develop an app like Monkey. An interface, specifically Monkey’s, is flashy and targets kids, which means they have to capture the interest of well-versed designers.

The random video chat app development cost increases to add further implications related to smooth transitions and animations, especially where custom illustrations or branding are needed. 

 

Component	Description	Estimated Cost
Basic Design	Standard layout and interface	$1,000 – $2,000
Custom UI (Animations, Branding)	Highly engaging design, tailored for target users	$2,500 – $5,000

 

5. AI-Based Moderation and Filtering

Video telephonic communication software must act upon flagged explicit material instantly. It is a necessity to have violence or aggressive content moderation tools that are AI-based and check video or audio in real time.

Including these tools significantly raises live streaming app development costs, whether they are third-party providers like Hive or custom-made machine learning models.

 

Tool Type	Description	Estimated Cost
Third-party AI Tools (e.g., Hive)	Plug-in moderation and filtering tools	$2,000 – $4,000
Custom AI/ML Models	Tailored, scalable content recognition	$5,000 – $8,000+

 

6. Backend Infrastructure & Scalability

 

Moderate activity, including performing a content moderation log, notification, and user data video call routing, requires a solid backend system is one of the reasons that affect the cost to develop an app like Monkey.

During peak usage, seamless functionality is ensured with dependable servers like Google Cloud or AWS and their databases and APIs. Long-term maintenance expenses and initial setup costs skyrocket while enabling effortless expansion with a scalable cloud-based architecture.

 

Component	Description	Estimated Cost
Cloud Infrastructure (AWS/GCP)	Storage, APIs, compute power	$2,000 – $5,000+
Scalable Architecture	Auto-scaling, performance optimization	$3,000 – $6,000+

 

7. Compliance and Legal Requirements

Just like other real-time video chat platforms, Monkey needs to comply with COPPA and GDPR, including legal jurisdiction-specific data privacy rules in regions. Along with connecting with legal consultants, deploying these features like opt-outs, reporting, or even parental controls significantly increases the overall social media app development cost as jail is implemented.

 

Requirement	Description	Estimated Cost
Data Privacy Compliance	GDPR, COPPA, Terms of Service	$1,000 – $3,000
Legal Consultation & Parental Controls	Mandatory for underage safety	$2,000 – $4,000

 

Monkey app development cost requires significant resources, not only financially but also in technical and legal frameworks. Depending on the features, scale, and quality level desired, the total random video chat app development cost can vary a lot.

To succeed in this particular industry, collaborating with a professional custom mobile app development services provider who prepares for growth and functionality from the outset solves many potential problems.

 

 

How To Make Money From Monkey Live Chat App Development?

Now that you know the cost to build an app like a monkey video chat app it is crucial to know about how it makes money. Here are the ways for live chat app development for monetization:

 

 

1. Subscription Models:

Ad-free usage filtering by country or certain parts of India, unlimited matching, access to exclusive users-only chat rooms, and matchmaking are some additional features offered at a fee with this online video talk app.

 

2. In-App Purchases:

Users can purchase premium feature access with virtual currency (coins, gems). Video chat on-demand app development solutions include sending virtual gifts to users, unlocking better filters and effects, or increasing their chances of being matched with other users by promoting their profiles.

 

3. Advertising:

Revenue can be generated from impressions or clicks based on advertisements shown, especially for users on the free or basic tiers. Formats for the ads can be banner ads, interstitial ads (between chats), or chat-rewarded video ads (where a user watches an ad and gets in-app currency, among other perks).

 

4. Virtual Gifts and Tokens:

Like in-app purchases mentioned, sending virtual gifts to each other can be sold during video chats can serve as a direct revenue stream. According to the iPhone app development services provider, the Video Calling App often gets a cut of the income received for the gifts.

 

5. Affiliate Marketing and Sponsorships:

The talk to strangers video chat app like Monkey collaborate with other apps or brands that resonate with the specific target demographic. It includes gaming apps and entertainment platforms that are popular, can generate revenue from advertisement placements or sponsored content within the monkey app clone. 

 

In A Nutshell!

As you’ve explored the steps to build a random video chat app like Monkey, you now understand the key features, development process, and technologies involved. 

Creating such an engaging and interactive platform requires expertise in real-time communication, UI/UX design, and robust backend infrastructure. 

At Dev Technosys, we possess the experience and skills to transform your vision into a successful video chat application. Our video chat app development company can guide you through every stage, from conceptualization to deployment and beyond. Let’s collaborate and build the next popular social video platform together. Contact us today to discuss your project!

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q1. What Technologies Are Used To Build An App Like Monkey?

Backend infrastructure for a virtual meeting app for adults usually involves real-time communication through WebRTC, integrated with cloud services like AWS or Google Cloud. For frontend development, native technologies for iOS/Android or cross-platform frameworks like Flutter can be utilized.

 

Q2. How Much Does It Cost To Build An App Like Monkey?

The cost to develop an app like monkey, it can range from $8,000 to $25,000, depending on platform choice, video streaming technology, UI/UX design, security features, and AI-based content moderation tools.

 

Q3. How Can User Safety Be Ensured In A Visual Communication Platform?

User safety in a video chat app can be ensured by integrating real-time AI moderation, content filters, age verification systems, and report/block features. Additionally, implementing secure logins and encryption for user data is essential to prevent unauthorized access.

 

Q4. How Long Does It Take To Make An App Like A Monkey?

To make an app like Monkey, it typically takes between 3 and 6 months, depending on the complexity of features, design, platform choice, and testing phases. Additional time may be required for post-launch maintenance and scaling.