White-label apps comprise prebuilt software that businesses can customize and rebrand to fit their needs. These apps help companies quickly launch digital solutions without starting from scratch. Many organizations use this model to meet customer demands while keeping development time and cost manageable.
In this guide, we’ll explore the basics of white-label apps, their various types, and the development process. We’ll also provide real-world use case examples to guide you.
Table of Contents
- What Is a White Label App?
- 2 Main Types of White Label Mobile Apps
- White Label Apps vs. Custom Apps: Main Differences
- Pros and Cons of White Label Apps
- How Are White Label Mobile Apps Developed?
- Which Companies Utilize White Label Mobile Apps?
- Expert Insights on White Label Apps
- White Label App Use Case Examples
- White Label Mobile Apps Key Takeaways
- White Label App FAQs
What Is a White Label App?
As we mentioned, a white-label app is an existing software product that companies can rebrand as their own. It offers customization options, allowing businesses to integrate their logos, tweak design components, and tailor features to meet unique requirements. This method provides a ready-to-use solution without needing to create software from scratch.
One key benefit of a white label application is its quick turnaround time for launching. This solution reduces development expenses, allowing companies to concentrate on their primary objectives.
2 Main Types of White Label Mobile Apps
Based on their technical characteristics and features, white-label apps can be divided into two main groups: single-tenant and multi-tenant. In this context, a “tenant” refers to you, the app customer.
Let’s take a closer look at each one below:
1. Single-Tenant White Label Apps
A single-tenant white-label app is a singular application copy provided to the customer. This means you receive a separate application customized for your brand to the extent allowed. However, while the app is unique to your company, other businesses may also use the same underlying app and backend code, but with their own branding elements.
Due to the exclusivity of a dedicated environment for each customer, single-tenant white-label apps may be pricey.
2. Multi-Tenant White Label Apps
A multi-tenant white label app is an application that has a fixed set of features and uses the same platform for all customers while allowing customization of the UI design.
This type of app typically follows the Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model, where a service provider hosts your application in the cloud and makes it accessible to users over the internet on a pay-as-you-go basis.
Compared to single-tenant white-label apps, multi-tenant apps are a more affordable and convenient option, as the costs for the shared environment are shared among all the customers.
However, sharing the same cloud environment means that all apps on the server are subjected to the same activities such as updates or bug fixing.
White Label Apps vs. Custom Apps: Main Differences
So, what’s the difference between a white label app vs. a custom mobile app? Here’s a breakdown:
1. Design
A white-label app is created to meet the needs of multiple vendors within the same industry. These apps have the same appearance, differing only in colors, labels, or branding elements customized by your company. As a result, there’s limited opportunity to showcase your brand’s unique identity, look, and feel.
A custom app allows you to create a unique user interface by adding animations, different fonts, and graphics to make your brand easily recognizable.
2. Functionalities
A white-label app offers limited functionalities as it is created to meet the requirements of multiple businesses. For example, it can lack functionalities that allow you to segment your target audiences.
A custom business app is tailored to meet the specific needs of your brand and target groups. As such, it includes everything you need, from reporting and historical data to controlled access and automation.
3. Customization
A white-label app is not specifically designed and developed for your brand, resulting in limited customization and personalization options.
A custom app is built from the ground up to align with your specific requirements. It includes tailored features that meet the needs of your customers and represent your brand identity.
4. Scalability
A white-label app is created for a specific design or platform. It does not scale when you move it to a different operating system (OS) version or another device. To make it fit the requirements of a new platform or device, you must wait for a scalable version from the vendor or create a similar app with the help of a development company.
A custom app creation gives you the freedom to design and develop an application that can work across various platforms and devices as your business grows.
5. Support & Maintenance
A white-label application utilizes code that has been tried and tested in different environments. Once the app is published, you benefit from guaranteed maintenance and support, which helps reduce coding errors and bugs.
A custom app carries a higher risk of bugs and coding errors. Each component of your application must be tested thoroughly when you add new elements to ensure error-free operation.
6. Security
A white-label app does not allow you to alter your application code, which leaves you with limited control over your app’s security. Typically, if you need a security audit, you must rely on the services of a software development company to conduct it.
A custom mobile app allows for code adjustment, code testing, and more. You can also conduct mobile app testing to improve its performance and security.
7. Cost
A white-label app is extremely affordable due to its ready-made framework, designed and developed to fit the needs of multiple companies.
A custom app is more expensive, as it involves expenses for project management, design, development, quality assurance, maintenance, and support.
8. Turnaround Time
A white-label app allows you to enter a market niche quickly without wasting additional time and effort. This is especially beneficial in regions where you pioneer a product or service to gain rapid profits.
A custom app is associated with hours of designing, developing, and QA testing, which makes the development and launch process slower.
Pros and Cons of White Label Apps
White label apps are gaining popularity due to the many advantages they offer businesses. However, like any technology, there are also downsides to consider.
Let’s explore both the pros and cons of using such apps:
Pros:
- Customization: Companies can modify the app’s features and branding to match their identity.
- Speed: A white label app provides a quicker path to market compared to building from scratch.
- Cost-effective: Development expenses are significantly lower than creating a fully custom app.
- Proven reliability: These apps are already tested and widely used, reducing technical risks.
Cons:
- Limited Control: Customization options may be restricted compared to building an app in-house.
- Dependency: Businesses rely on third-party developers for updates and maintenance.
- Less differentiation: Standing out can be challenging since multiple companies may use the same platform.
How Are White Label Mobile Apps Developed?
The process of white-label app development typically includes the following steps:
- Select a white-label type: a single-tenant or multi-tenant.
- Decide what UI/UX features to customize for your brand.
- Set up a UI/UX customization dashboard that enables customers to personalize their interface independently.
- Choose an appropriate server for hosting your app.
- Implement error monitoring to address any errors that may arise.
To create a white-label app, reach out to a company that specializes in application development outsourcing or mobile app development. To find the right fit, research app development directory listings on DesignRush, where you can filter companies by their area of expertise, location, rates, client base, and reviews.
Which Companies Utilize White Label Mobile Apps?
Let’s a look at three of the most prominent sectors where white label apps have become essential:
1. Hospitality
Hotels, resorts, and restaurants use white label mobile apps to enhance guest experiences. For example, many hotels provide mobile check-in and room service ordering through their branded apps, reducing wait times and improving convenience.
Restaurants use similar platforms for online reservations and digital menus, allowing customers to book tables and place orders easily. These solutions also help manage loyalty programs and personalized promotions that provide businesses with better customer retention.
2. Fitness
Gyms and wellness studios rely on white label mobile apps to engage their clients. Members can track their workouts, book classes, and access nutritional advice all from one branded app.
For instance, fitness chains use these apps to schedule classes and provide virtual workout sessions. Wellness centers also benefit from offering meditation and mindfulness programs directly through their custom-branded app platforms.
3. Financial Services
Financial institutions increasingly depend on white label mobile apps to deliver secure and user-friendly financial services. Through these apps, users can manage their profiles and even apply for loans without visiting a branch.
They also use them to integrate features like real-time transaction alerts and personal finance management tools that enhance customer experience while maintaining security.
Expert Insights on White Label Apps
We also asked our agency experts, “Which industries most often resort to white label apps and why?”
Stacy Matviienko, Business Developer at Empat, shares:
"As the Business Developer at Empat, a seasoned startup studio with almost a decade of experience, I am excited to share our wealth of expertise and insights on the use of white label apps across various industries.
Here's a look at some sectors where white label apps have become a staple, along with the compelling reasons behind their widespread adoption:
Retail
Retailers often turn to white label apps for their online stores. These apps offer a swift and cost-effective means of establishing a mobile presence, enabling retailers to customize the apps with their unique branding and features without hefty investments in app development.
Healthcare
Healthcare providers, especially smaller clinics or individual practitioners, leverage white label apps for appointment scheduling, telemedicine, or patient management. This strategic move allows them to concentrate on delivering care instead of diverting time and resources into app development.
Real Estate
Real estate agencies and property management firms utilize white label apps for property listings, virtual tours, and client communication. This enables them to establish a mobile presence without making substantial investments in app development.
In essence, these diverse industries share a common goal: the swift deployment of a mobile solution without the time and expense associated with custom app development. White label apps offer a ready-made solution, customizable to meet specific business needs and branding requirements.
At Empat, we understand the power of white label apps in propelling businesses forward, and we're here to help others leverage this potential for their success."
White Label App Use Case Examples
From eCommerce app development and travel app development to blockchain application development, white-label applications can be a great asset to your company.
Let’s discuss a few real-life applications to show how businesses utilize private label software in their operations.
- Uber Direct: Uber Direct offers white-label delivery services to retailers who want to integrate on-demand delivery into their existing channels. This solution allows companies to control the entire delivery process under their own brand without building infrastructure from scratch.
- Recruitology: Local media companies like Tribune Publishing use Recruitology, a white-label job board software, to provide job listings under their own brand. This enhances their local presence while delivering a valuable service.
- SocialPilot: Social media management platform SocialPilot allows agencies to offer detailed, white-label analytics and post-management services. Agencies can customize reports and metrics for clients, presenting their brand as the provider of these tools.
White Label Mobile Apps Key Takeaways
White label apps offer companies a fast and cost-effective way to launch mobile applications without building them from scratch. This aspect makes them essential for organizations looking to provide digital experiences to their audience.
As industries change, the demand for white label mobile apps grows, particularly in sectors like hospitality, finance, and fitness. This trend is driven by the flexibility and reduced development time these apps provide.
White label mobile apps are expected to remain in demand for companies seeking efficient and customizable digital solutions.
White Label App FAQs
1. How much does white label app development cost?
White label app development costs range from $5,000 to $50,000. The price depends on factors such as the level of customization, features included, and whether the app is offered as a one-time purchase or through a subscription model.
2. How to choose the right white label app development company?
When selecting a white label app development company, consider their experience, customization capabilities, and ongoing support options. Ensure they provide scalable solutions and have a track record that aligns with your business requirements.
