The Ultimate Guide to Developing an Online Dating App Like Zoosk UK

With annual revenue expected to reach $198.1 million by the end of 2024, the UK’s dating app industry is blossoming with exciting opportunities for businesses looking to invest in it. Reports show that almost 21% of people in the UK use at least one dating app for hookups or serious relationships. Ever since the concept of online dating and hookups started, there has been a surge in mobile dating apps like Tinder, Badoo, and Zoosk UK. And seeing this upward trend, businesses are rushing towards online dating app development. So, if you’re one among them, here’s a one-stop guide to developing a dating app like Zoosk UK.

Over the past few years, dating apps have become more prevalent and socially accepted in the UK. They cater to people of all ages, ethnicities, and sexual orientations. As we have seen above, the market for dating apps in the UK is massive, and Zoosk UK holds just 2% of it. In such a situation, if you have a breakthrough idea for a dating app with more advanced and user-centric features than already available apps, there isn’t a better time to invest in online dating app development than today. 

The success of online dating apps like Tinder, Zoosk, Muddy Matches, and Hinge is enough to prove the profitability of this business model. Although investing in dating apps is a wise decision, you must know what it takes to develop such apps. If that’s the case, read this comprehensive guide to online dating app development like Zoosk UK to get an idea of what it takes, how to develop such apps, and how much cost you should expect. So, let’s get started!

Key Insights on the Online Dating App Market in the UK

• As you can see in the graph above, the revenue from the dating services market in the UK was valued at $187.6 million in 2023 and is expected to grow by a CAGR of 1.64% to reach $206.83 million by 2029. (Source: Statista) 
• The projected ARPU (Average Revenue Per User) in the online dating services market is around $26.44 in 2024. (Source: Statista) 
• The number of people using dating services in the UK is projected to reach 14.3 million by the end of 2029. (Source: Statista)
• People aged 25-34 hold the largest share of online dating app users, accounting for around 31.4% of the total. (Source: Statista) 
• Around 26% of the users pay for their chosen dating services. (Source: Statista)

Top Dating Apps in the UK and Their Market Share

The UK dating app market is currently shared between well-known apps like Tinder, Hinge, Zoosk, and Badoo. The share of popular online dating apps in the UK is as follows:

• Tinder (40%)
• Bumble (37%)
• Hinge (26%)
• Badoo (25%)
• Grindr (20%)
• Coffee Meets Bagel (19%)
• Plenty of Fish (17%)
• Happn (14%)
• Match (14%)
• OkCupid (11%)
• Zoosk (9%)

What is Zoosk?

Zoosk is an online dating app with over 40 million active members and sees more than 1.6 million messages exchanged daily. The platform offers various ways to find matches, including the SmartPicks feature that uses behavioral matchmaking, a search function with advanced filters, the Carousel, and online chatting with other singles.

The Zoosk mobile app is designed to be user-friendly, making it easy to navigate, chat, and connect with like-minded individuals. Both the mobile and desktop versions are well-organized, making it simple to find matches and use the messaging system.

Additionally, Zoosk provides a range of helpful online dating tools and expert tips through The Date Mix to support your dating journey.

How Does Zoosk UK Make Money?

Zoosk is a free dating site with an option to upgrade to paid subscription plans. Although the free plan on Zoosk has several limitations, you need to switch to paid plans to get the most out of the platform. The subscription plan for Zoosk UK starts from £15.00 per month. You can even find a Zoosk promo code on its official website to get some discounts.

Here are the monetization models Zoosk uses to make money: 

1. Freemium Model

This is a popular monetization model for online dating apps like Tinder, Zoosk, and more, where users can download and use the app for free. However, some special features are locked. To unlock these features, users need to make in-app purchases or subscribe to premium plans. These plans can vary based on the number of features or the subscription duration.

2. Advertising

Zoosk sells ad space to other brands and businesses. These ads are shown to users using the app's free version. This method works well if the app has a large and active user base, as it can generate many views and clicks for the advertisers.

3. Affiliate Marketing

This is a less common but potentially profitable method. It involves partnering with other businesses that offer products or services that complement what Zoosk offers. 

4. Niche Marketing

This strategy targets a specific group of users with unique needs or preferences. By focusing on a particular market segment, you can create a loyal user base that feels the app is specially made for them.

Is It Profitable to Invest in Online Dating App Development in the UK?

Investing in online dating app development in the UK can be quite profitable, inspired by the success of apps like Tinder, Badoo, Bumble, Zoosk UK, and more. The market value of online dating apps in the UK has increased significantly over the past few years. In 2023, around 1 in 10 British adults used a dating service. This shows a strong demand for such apps. 

Developing a dating app can be a good investment because people are willing to pay for premium features. These features can include advanced matching algorithms, ad-free experiences, and more. Additionally, advertising within the app can generate revenue.

However, it's important to consider the competition. The market is crowded with many established players. Your app needs to offer something unique or better than existing apps to succeed. 

Core Features to Consider While Developing an App Like Zoosk UK

The features and functionalities of your dating app make or break its success. So, here’s a list of features you must incorporate in your app to ensure its success: 

1. Profile

Every dating app needs a section for users to create their profiles. This is the first step in connecting with others. Keep it simple yet detailed. Give your users an option to sign up or sign in using the following ways:

• Email
• Social media platforms
• Phone number
• Third-party services

2. Chat

A dating app must have a chat feature and an inbox. This allows users to communicate, plan meetings, and eventually date. You can even implement end-to-end encryption to offer more personalized space to your users. 

3. Geolocation

Your app should be based on location. Users need to know where others are located to connect with people nearby. You can even add a feature that searches for matches in the nearby proximity set by the user. 

4. Social Media

Integrate social media to boost user interaction. Allow your app users to link their social media accounts to expand the app's reach. Additionally, users can even connect on their social media accounts directly from your app. 

5. Matching Algorithm

Include a swipe feature and a strong matching algorithm. This will show suitable profiles, suggest conversations, and more. The success of your app depends on this machine-learning feature.

6. Customization Settings

Allow your users to personalize all features and options. They can choose the distance for matching profiles, decide what information to keep public or private (like phone numbers and social media), allow or block direct chats, share their Spotify playlist, and more.

7. Privacy & Security

Ensure users feel safe, as dating apps can attract unwanted attention. Prioritize adding advanced privacy settings so users can block fake profiles, unwanted messages, or anything that makes them uncomfortable. The block option is essential.

8. Notifications

Keep users updated and engaged with notifications about matches, likes, views, and new messages. These alerts can be sent via push notifications, email, or in-app notifications based on user preferences. They help remind users to stay active and keep track of upcoming dates.

9. Settings

Settings is a must-have option for a dating app as it helps users customize their dating app experience. Here’s what users can adjust:

• Discovery Options: Set preferences for potential matches, like age, distance, and gender.
• Notification Preferences: Choose which notifications to receive and how they are delivered.
• Privacy Settings: Let your users control who can view their profile, appear in search results, and manage data sharing.
• Account Management: Change passwords, update account settings, and modify profile information. Users can also delete or deactivate their account if needed.

10. Admin Panel

The admin panel is crucial for running the dating app smoothly. It provides tools for administrators to:

• Manage Users: Monitor accounts, handle reports of bad behavior, and take action against rule-breakers.
• Content Moderation: Ensure profiles and posts follow app policies to keep the environment safe and respectful.
• Analytics and Insights: Access data to understand user behavior, app usage, and trends, helping make informed decisions.
• Security Management: Oversee security features like data encryption to protect user privacy and prevent fake profiles and spam.

Required Tech Stack for Dating App Development in the UK

The technology behind online dating apps is what makes them big. Before you move on to understanding the process of dating app development, you need to choose the right tech stack for your app to ensure it lives up to your expectations.

Here’s a table highlighting the required tech stack for developing a dating app like Zoosk UK:

How to Develop a Dating App Like Zoosk?

Developing a dating app like Zoosk involves a series of strategic steps that ensure the app's functionality, user engagement, and profitability. 

Here's a step-by-step guide to creating a successful online dating app:

Step 1: Understand Your Target Audience

Before you plan to develop a dating app, the first thing to do is understand who your target audience is. They will shape what your app becomes. You need to know what they want and need.

Finding your niche is crucial. Begin with market research and user analysis to identify your potential users and their challenges, needs, preferences, and behaviors.

Look at your competitors to see what they are doing well and where there are gaps you can fill with your idea. This will help your app stand out and offer something unique.

Step 2: Prepare a Business Plan and Monetization Strategy

Your business plan and monetization strategy outline your objectives, goals, milestones, revenue streams, and budget. This is also the time to choose the right business model and pricing strategy for your dating app. Start by understanding your niche to offer pricing that fits their needs. The details of monetization models for dating apps are available above. 

Step 3: Choosing the Best Mobile App Development Company

After finalizing your business plan and monetization strategy, the next step is to choose a software development company to work on your app idea. Finding a dependable and skilled development team that can provide high-quality and cost-effective solutions is crucial.

Clear communication of your requirements, expectations, and feedback throughout the development process is essential. At Mtoag Technologies, we assist you in every step, including selecting the most suitable programming languages, tools, and technologies.

Step 4: Quality Assurance

Quality assurance is a vital part of developing a dating app. It involves various testing stages, such as compatibility, performance, usability, security, and functional testing across different devices and operating systems. 

This ensures the app performs optimally in diverse scenarios. Usability testing should focus on the user experience, assessing how user-friendly the app is, and identifying any issues or areas for improvement.

Step 5: Launching Your Dating App

When you are ready to launch your app, starting with a soft launch is a good idea. This means releasing the app in a specific area or to a smaller group of users first. This way, you can find and fix any unexpected problems before making the app available.

Develop a working marketing plan that includes strategies for before, during, and after the launch. To reach as many people as possible, use email marketing, partnerships with influencers, social media, content marketing, and digital advertising. Make the onboarding process simple and user-friendly to help new users set up and use their profiles easily.

Step 6: Maintaining Your App After Launch

Once your app is live, it's important to gather and analyze user feedback through in-app surveys, reviews, and support channels. Use this feedback to improve continuously, such as fixing bugs, adding new features, and enhancing the overall user experience.

Engage with your app's community through social media, blogs, and forums to foster a sense of connection among users. This can lead to more user-generated content, stronger brand loyalty, and higher engagement.

Provide prompt and attentive user support to address any concerns or issues. Meanwhile, a dedicated support team or chatbot can help maintain a positive user experience.

How Much Does It Cost to Develop an App Like Zoosk UK?

The cost of developing an app like Zoosk UK demands a significant investment. The cost depends on several factors, including the app's complexity, features, design, and the development team's rates.

• You might spend between £10,000 and £40,000 for a basic app with minimal features. This type of app would have simple functionalities and a basic design.
• If you want an app with more features, such as custom user interfaces and some integrations, the cost could range from £40,000 to £80,000. This would include a more polished design and additional functionalities.
• For a high-end app with advanced features like custom animations, complex back-end systems, and high-level security, the cost can exceed £80,000 and go up to £200,000 or more. This type of app would offer a premium user experience with all the bells and whistles.

Top 5 Zoosk Alternatives That Are Doing Great Business in 2024

The online dating industry is far broader than you think, and Zoosk UK isn’t the only option available. So, here are some of the alternatives to Zoosk you should get inspiration for your app idea:

1. eharmony

eharmony is one of the oldest dating sites that has helped over 10 million people find love. It's famous for its detailed questionnaires that match users based on personality, life goals, and interests. 

Most users are looking for long-term relationships, so you won't have to sift through profiles of people just seeking casual hookups. Each profile shows a compatibility score, and the site offers icebreaker questions to help start conversations.

2. Match

With 21 million members, Match offers a wide range of options, from casual hookups to serious relationships. Because signing up takes time and money, most users seek something serious. 

Like eharmony, Match uses surveys to determine compatibility. The app supports various identities and preferences, including LGBTQ and non-monogamous relationships. About 35% of users are aged 45 and older, making it a great option for senior dating.

3. OkCupid

OkCupid is a free dating platform and a perfect Zoosk alternative. It's user-friendly and offers detailed profiles. Users can fill out surveys about their lifestyle, political views, and more. Each pair of users gets a match score. You can view profiles, send messages right away, send a "like" and wait for a response, or use a swipe feature similar to Tinder to see if there's mutual interest.

OkCupid allows you to add various identities and preferences to your profile, including 22 genders and 20 sexual orientations. If you're in a non-monogamous relationship, you can link your account with your partners to be involved in each other's dating lives.

4. Tinder

Tinder is also a free and easy-to-use dating app. After downloading the app, you can create a profile with several photos and a short bio. You then swipe through profiles and match with other users to start messaging.

While some people use Tinder for long-term relationships, many are there for casual dating and hookups. It might be challenging to find a serious relationship on Tinder.

5. EliteSingles

EliteSingles is designed for those who enjoy intellectual conversations and are career-focused. It has 13 million users, 85% of whom are more educated than average.

The app uses a personality test similar to the Myers-Briggs test, measuring traits like openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism. Based on this test, it matches you with 4-7 new people daily. The profiles are detailed and manually checked to ensure accuracy.

Conclusion

Developing an online dating app like Zoosk UK requires knowledge of the growing online dating market and technological innovation. It’s about creating a platform connecting two like-minded people looking for a serious relationship. The process of developing such an app involves careful planning and developing launching and marketing strategies. Additionally, you need to pay extra attention to design, functionality, and user experience. 

To ensure the success of your dating app, you must navigate the complexities of competition, choose the most advanced tech stack, and implement the money-making monetization strategy. Ultimately, the goal is to build an app that becomes the top choice for online daters, much like Zoosk. 

FAQs

Why is Zoosk So Popular?

Zoosk is popular due to its large user base, innovative Behavioral Matchmaking technology, and user-friendly interface. It offers a diverse pool of potential matches and adapts to user preferences, making it easier to find compatible partners.

Can Zoosk be Trusted?

Zoosk has an 'A' rating from the Better Business Bureau, indicating a commitment to resolving consumer complaints. It also employs robust security measures and profile verification to ensure a safe dating environment.

Do You Pay for Zoosk UK?

While you can create a profile and browse for free, full access to Zoosk's features, such as messaging, requires a paid subscription that starts from £15.00 per month.

Is Zoosk Really Free?

Zoosk offers a free trial account that allows you to set up a profile, browse profiles, and use some basic features. However, you need to upgrade to a paid subscription to access all features, including messaging.

Is Zoosk a Dating or Hookup Site?

Zoosk caters to many relationship goals, including dating, hookups, and long-term relationships. Its Behavioral Matchmaking technology helps users find matches based on their preferences.

Is Zoosk Still Active?

Yes, Zoosk is still active, with over 40 million users worldwide. It continues to be a popular choice for online dating, although some users have reported issues with spam accounts and outdated design.

Who is Zoosk Best for?

Zoosk is best for individuals who appreciate a technology-driven approach to dating, busy people who prefer the convenience of an app, and those looking for an international pool of matches. It's also suitable for users new to online dating.