With TikTok's explosive growth, short-form video has become a mainstream medium. With over 1.5 billion monthly active users (Statista, 2025), it’s proof that video-sharing apps are dominating mobile usage.
If you're an entrepreneur or startup looking to build a TikTok-like app, you'll need more than just a copycat product.
Why 2025 is the Right Time to Launch a TikTok-Like App
Short video apps are the future. In fact, according to SensorTower, video-based platforms are among the top-grossing mobile categories.
With a smart niche focus and creator ecosystem, your app can stand out.
Features to Include in a TikTok-Like App
User Features
HD Video Recording and Uploading
Collaborative features
Music Library Integration
Viral distribution via other platforms
Engagement-driven updates
Admin Panel Features
Automated content scanning
User Analytics and Insights
Tools for managing revenue streams
Pro Tip: Keep the interface sleek and minimal.
Monetization Models for TikTok Clone Apps
Without monetization, your app can’t scale.
1️Ad-Based Revenue
Use skippable or interactive ads for better engagement
2️ Subscription Models for Creators
Offer exclusive content behind a paywall
3️ Virtual Currency & Gifts
Creators redeem gifts for money
4 In-App Influencer Marketing Hub
Offer brands data and insights to drive campaigns
Monetization Insight: Diversify your revenue streams to stay scalable.
Growing Your Creator Ecosystem
Without content creators, your app won’t grow.
Proven Ways to Onboard Creators
Make monetization transparent and attractive
Launch content moderation system a Creator Fund
Advanced analytics, editing tools, and monetization settings
Verify early creators, feature them on the home feed
Stat Insight: 74% of creators prefer platforms that offer direct monetization and growth tools (HubSpot, 2025).
What Tech Stack Powers a Scalable Short Video App
App Interface Tools
Reduce cost and increase speed
For performance-critical native apps
Server-Side Components
For scalable APIs
Flexible, scalable databases
Video Delivery Stack
AWS or Google Cloud
Used for video compression and editing
Agora or Twilio
Tech Tip: Always choose tools that allow real-time media handling and content personalization.
What You Need to Stay Compliant
GDPR & CCPA compliance is non-negotiable
Use content moderation AI like Hive or Microsoft Moderator
Improve account security and reduce bots
Development Costs in 2025
App Building Phases
Minimum viable product can be built in under TikTok clone app by OyeLabs 5 months
Take your time with scaling features
Cost Estimates
Basic Version: $30,000–$50,000
Includes AI, live, monetization, and more
You can reduce cost by using a white-label TikTok clone solution.
Real-World Examples to Learn From
Clash: Focused on creator monetization
Zigazoo: Kid-friendly video sharing
Triller: Popular among artists and entertainers
These show that there’s no need to beat TikTok just innovate in new ways.
Wrapping Up
The short video market is expanding, and TikTok clone apps TikTok-like app can capture real value with the right execution.
Offer better incentives
Make your app fast and reliable
Design with creators and users in mind
Let’s Build Yours
Want to build something better than TikTok?
Partner with OyeLabs, a leading TikTok-like app TikTok clone real-time video app features development company.