Frequently asked questions

The cost of developing an app varies widely based on its complexity, features, platforms, and design requirements. This is not a sales technique, there are just so many factors we cannot answer this accurately. An initial release of an app could be anywhere between £100,000 - £300,000 assuming you would need a full discovery process to design the app, and multiple features will be included. Contact us for a personalised quote based on your specific needs.

Yes, we offer comprehensive post-launch support and maintenance. This includes bug fixes, performance enhancements, updates for new OS versions, and adding new features to keep your app running smoothly.

Our journey includes:

• Discovery: Understanding your requirements and goals.
• Design: Creating wireframes, UI/UX designs, and prototypes if required. Development: We breakdown features into releases so you can see both progress and test in smaller releases to ensure quality
• Quality assurance: Ensuring functionality, performance, accessibility and security.
• Deployment: Launching the app and providing post-launch support.

The development timeline depends on the app's complexity and requirements. Generally, a simple app can take around 3-6 months to develop, while more complex apps may take 6-12 months or longer. We provide a detailed timeline after understanding your project scope and requirements, with dedicated project managers working towards these timelines with complete transparency throughout the journey.

Our quality assurance testing process is rigorous and comprehensive. It includes functional testing, performance testing, accessibility testing and user acceptance testing (UAT). We ensure that the app performs seamlessly across different devices and operating systems before launch.

What sets us apart is our commitment to understanding you, your business and your needs. We blend technical expertise with creative problem-solving and integrate ourselves into your business. Our transparent communication and efficient processes sets us apart from jargon heavy conversations to ensure a smooth and successful journey.

Absolutely! We specialise in app design and user experience (UX/UI). Our product team creates intuitive and visually appealing interfaces that enhance user engagement and satisfaction. We focus on understanding your target audience and business goals to deliver designs that are not only beautiful but also functional, user-friendly and serve a purpose.
And the answer

Getting started is easy! Simply contact us to schedule a consultation. We'll discuss your project ideas, goals, and requirements, and provide you with a detailed proposal outlining the scope, timeline, and cost. From there, we'll guide you through each step of the development journey and keep it as simple as we can

To get started, all you need is a clear idea of your app's purpose and goals. Contact us to schedule a discussion, and we'll guide you through the initial steps, including defining requirements, creating a project plan, and providing a detailed quote.

Discovery is the initial phase of our development process where we gather detailed information about your project, we think it is the most important phase. This includes understanding your business objectives, target audience, and specific requirements. We use this information to create a solid foundation for the design and development phases.

Yes, we develop Progressive Web Applications (PWAs) that offer a seamless, app-like experience on both mobile and desktop devices. They are a great way to reach users across multiple platforms with a single codebase.

Yes we love to! We have extensive experience integrating third-party services and APIs into mobile apps. Whether you need payment gateways, location services, or any other third-party functionality, we can seamlessly incorporate them into your app to enhance its capabilities.

When developing backend solutions we design the system architecture from the ground up and use Serverless architecture wherever possible. We consider a range of variables to ensure a long term, scalable solution:

• Hosting Costs
• Security
• Scalability
• System Maintenance

Security is a top priority for us. We implement industry best practices, and can advise on penetration testing companies who specialise in testing apps so we ensure your app and user data are safeguarded against potential threats.

We develop apps for both iOS and Android platforms. We offer cross-platform solutions using the React Native framework.

We work with a wide variety of technology and frameworks, but our expertise are in Javascript/Typescript based solutions. We utilise React/React Native and Expo for our app and website solutions with NestJS and Supabase frameworks for our backend systems.

AI refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines, enabling them to learn, reason, and solve problems. It’s the foundation of smart assistants, recommendation engines, and even autonomous systems. In app development, AI helps automate tasks, enhance user experiences, and drive business insights.

As a subset of AI, machine learning allows systems to learn and improve from experience without being explicitly programmed. Instead of following a rigid set of rules, ML models analyse data patterns to make predictions - like how Netflix suggests movies based on your viewing history.

AI that creates new content, whether it’s text, images, music, or even code. Generative AI powers tools like ChatGPT and Midjourney, enabling apps to generate human-like responses, design visuals, and assist in content creation.

Fun fact: All the images used in this blog have been created with generative AI!

These are AI models trained on vast amounts of text data to understand and generate human-like language. Examples include OpenAI’s GPT models and Google’s Gemini. LLMs are used for chatbots, content generation, and language translation in app development.

It's a field of AI that allows computers to interpret and make decisions based on visual data, like images and videos. It’s used in facial recognition, augmented reality (AR), and object detection, enhancing app features such as photo editing and real-time translations.

It's a type of machine learning where an AI model learns by trial and error, receiving rewards or penalties based on its actions. It’s used in gaming AI, robotics, and self-improving recommendation algorithms.

Deep learning a more advanced type of machine learning that mimics the way the human brain processes information. Deep learning models use neural networks with multiple layers to recognise patterns in vast amounts of data. It’s the technology behind facial recognition, speech translation, and self-driving cars.

Inspired by the structure of the human brain, neural networks consist of interconnected layers of nodes (or "neurons") that process information. These networks power deep learning models, enabling AI to perform complex tasks like image recognition and natural language processing.

NLP enables machines to understand, interpret, and generate human language. It’s what powers voice assistants like Siri and Alexa, as well as chatbots and AI-driven customer support systems. NLP helps apps communicate more naturally with users.

AI models learn from data, which means they can inherit biases present in that data. Ethical AI development focuses on ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability to prevent biased decision-making in apps.

AI that processes data locally on a device rather than relying on cloud-based systems improves speed and privacy, making it ideal for mobile apps, smart cameras, and IoT devices.

APIs allow developers to integrate AI functionalities into apps without building models from scratch. AI-powered APIs, such as Google’s Vision API or OpenAI’s ChatGPT API, help add features like image recognition or language processing.

An MCP is a standardised protocol/service that provides access to data and services from a 3rd party data source or service. Designed specifically for integration with AI workflows to provide further context to an LLM.

It's an AI-driven data analysis that forecasts future outcomes based on historical data. Apps use predictive analytics for personalised recommendations, fraud detection, and demand forecasting.

It's an AI technique used to determine the emotional tone behind text data. It helps apps analyse customer feedback, social media posts, and reviews to gauge user sentiment.

AI-powered programs that simulate human conversation. They’re widely used in customer service apps, allowing businesses to automate responses, answer FAQs, and assist users in real-time.

React Native is a framework that allows developers to create apps for both iOS and Android using a single codebase. It uses JavaScript and React to build apps that feel and perform like native ones.

React Native is cost-effective, time-efficient, and offers near-native performance. It’s ideal for reaching users on both iOS and Android quickly without compromising quality.

React Native is backed by Meta, ensuring it benefits from regular updates and innovations. It’s also supported by a global community of developers, providing access to tools, plugins, and shared expertise.

Timelines depend on the app’s complexity, but React Native typically shortens development time by allowing us to build for iOS and Android simultaneously. We’ll work with you to set a clear schedule.

React Native allows for platform-specific design adjustments, so your app can look and feel like it was made specifically for each platform.

iOS apps can boost your brand visibility, attract loyal users, and drive revenue. With Apple’s reputation for quality, your app will stand out and build trust with your audience.

That depends on what you’re looking for. Simple apps cost less; more advanced features add complexity. We’ll work with you to find the right balance for your budget and goals.

Probably, yes! Whether you’re in retail, finance, travel, or healthcare, iOS’s secure and polished platform is perfect for apps that need to perform brilliantly and keep users coming back.

It depends on your audience and goals - iOS is great for higher-income markets and brand loyalty, while Android offers a broader global reach. Many businesses find success targeting both platforms to maximise their impact.

The cost of Android app development depends on factors like complexity, features, and design. At The Distance, we work with you to provide an estimate based on your specific requirements, ensuring a cost-effective solution.

The cost of Android app development depends on factors like complexity, features, and design. At The Distance, we work with you to provide an estimate based on your specific requirements, ensuring a cost-effective solution.

Android’s open-source nature provides greater flexibility and customisation, while its larger user base gives you access to a more diverse audience. It also offers a broader range of devices and price points, making it accessible to a wider audience.

Yes! We ensure that your Android app can seamlessly integrate with other platforms, tools, and third-party services. Whether it’s APIs, databases, or legacy systems, we make sure everything works together to enhance your app’s functionality.

The cost of developing an app varies widely based on its complexity, features, platforms, and design requirements. This is not a sales technique, there are just so many factors we cannot answer this accurately. An initial release of an app could be anywhere between £100,000 - £300,000 assuming you would need a full discovery process to design the app, and multiple features will be included. Contact us for a personalised quote based on your specific needs.

Yes, we offer comprehensive post-launch support and maintenance. This includes bug fixes, performance enhancements, updates for new OS versions, and adding new features to keep your app running smoothly.

Our journey includes:

• Discovery: Understanding your requirements and goals.
• Design: Creating wireframes, UI/UX designs, and prototypes if required. Development: We breakdown features into releases so you can see both progress and test in smaller releases to ensure quality
• Quality assurance: Ensuring functionality, performance, accessibility and security.
• Deployment: Launching the app and providing post-launch support.

The development timeline depends on the app's complexity and requirements. Generally, a simple app can take around 3-6 months to develop, while more complex apps may take 6-12 months or longer. We provide a detailed timeline after understanding your project scope and requirements, with dedicated project managers working towards these timelines with complete transparency throughout the journey.

Our quality assurance testing process is rigorous and comprehensive. It includes functional testing, performance testing, accessibility testing and user acceptance testing (UAT). We ensure that the app performs seamlessly across different devices and operating systems before launch.

What sets us apart is our commitment to understanding you, your business and your needs. We blend technical expertise with creative problem-solving and integrate ourselves into your business. Our transparent communication and efficient processes sets us apart from jargon heavy conversations to ensure a smooth and successful journey.

No, you don't have to put your app in the stores. Depending on your needs, you can distribute your app privately, such as through enterprise distribution for internal use within a company. We can help you explore the best distribution method for your app.

We handle the full app store submission process for you. This includes preparing the necessary assets, creating store listings, and ensuring the app meets all guidelines and requirements of the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. We manage the submission and approval process to ensure a smooth launch.