BNPL apps like Afterpay have been growing quite popular lately. This concept is new and it has taken the market by storm.

As such, 50% of total consumers utilized a buy now, pay later service in the last year. In fact, as many as 67% of users prefer using buy now, pay later like Afterpay over credit cards.

Moreover, since all major e-commerce platforms also offer their own BNPL service, as many as 53% of users prefer using this option.

It goes without saying that buying electronics is one of the major expenses we have today. As per stats, 47% of users have used solutions like Afterpay to shop for the same. All these amounts for 38% of buy now, pay later users who use BNPL once a month or more.

These statistics show the huge market potential and the explosive growth of this new payment concept. It goes without saying that all of this has garnered attention from a lot of businesses and start-ups alike from across the United States of America and other parts of the world.

Now, there are a lot of people who want to create their own Afterpay Clone mobile app. And if you are one of these, you have come to the right place.

In this blog, we shall be looking at everything you need to know about creating your own app like Afterpay as well as all the basic information about the BNPL platform itself.

Growing Market for BNPL, Statistics

Fintech statistics show BNPL as a growing sector of the industry, with Afterpay leading the market. Let’s have a look:

  • As of 2022, there are an estimated 360 million BNPL users worldwide. That number is projected to reach 900 million by 2027, a 157% increase.
  • In 2020, the BNPL market was valued at $87.2 billion. By 2030, it’s forecast to reach a staggering $3.27 trillion.
  • The US currently holds the largest share of BNPL users, accounting for approximately 22% of the global total.

Now that we are done with this, let’s look at the app itself, Afterpay.

Afterpay: BNPL Market Leader, An Overview

First things first, what is Afterpay?

Well, being one of the best examples of BNPL apps, this platform does exactly what it name tells. It allows you to pay after.

In layman’s terms, this is a fintech platform which provide small loans at the time of checkout. It can be repaid or one go or over a period of time.

The BNPL platform was established back in 2014 by Nick Molnar and Anthony Eisen. Then it was mainly active in Australia. However, today, it is also available in the United Kingdom, United States of America, and New Zealand.

The BNPL platform has over 43,000 global retailers. Out of these, over 9,000 retailers are in the United States of America only.

Moving on, in the years leading up to and from 2012 to today, this platform has become one of the most popular in its market.

But something that a lot of people might still be confused about is, how does this work?

Let’s look at the answer in the next section:

How Does Afterpay Work?

Buy Now, Pay Later platforms which are also known as BNPL, are quite self-explanatory. They work like a credit card would or in other words getting a soft loan. Apps like Afterpay allow the customers to purchase an item or service online and pay for it after a specific interval of time.

Usually, they also allow the users to pay in easy EMIs over a long period. This is why it is also known as a pay in installments online shopping platform.

While this isn’t something that you might use for everyday shopping, it can be quite useful for those every once in while extensive shopping. After all, not every one of us wants to spend the entirety of our savings on buying a product. People have things that need to be taken care of.

Coming back to the topic, the process of availing of this service is quite easy. Especially when compared to conventional loans, this concept is much faster and less stressful, and there are little to no extra (hidden) charges.

As one might guess, if you want to avoid paying extra, your best course of action would be to pay back within the defined timeline.

You see, there is a particular reason why this concept becomes so popular. The reason is that people often used this during the Covid-19 pandemic. Consequently, it makes businesses want to create an app like Afterpay.

 Conditions You Have to Follow When Shopping with Afterpay

  • Interest-Free. The soft loan provided through Afterpay is totally interest-free if you repay it within the said time.
  • Avail it Without Hassle. Availing a BNPL service is quite easy, there is no hours-long process, you can just login to the platform and pay for the order.
  • Account management. Customers can view their upcoming payments, orders, and account information.
  • Reminders. To stay away from overdrafts, Afterpay sends notices that remind customers about impending installment sums and due dates.
  • With Afterpay, clients can in any case get discounts as per the store’s discount strategy.
  • Pay in advance.Clients can pay portions early..
  • Security. This BNPL platform is a PCI DSS Level 1 certified specialist co-op.

How Does Afterpay Make Money?

With all said and done, one might be wondering how BNPL solution generates revenue.

This is quite a sound question considering the fact that the main goal of creating BNPL application is to generate revenue.

So, with this being said, let’s look at the strategies that apps like Afterpay use.

So, the main monetization strategy used by the Afterpay BNPL platform is charging a fee in form of a commission.

In addition to this, another portion of the revenue is generated through late fees, which are charged when users don’t pay on time.

In the first instance of a failed payment, the user is notified in case there is a technical problem. However, if the payment is still not made, a fee of $10 is charged. And if they pay within the next week, they have to pay another $7.

With this knowledge, you can integrate fitting monetization strategies with the help of custom mobile app development services.

Other Buy Now Pay Later Mobile App Examples

If you want to create an app like Afterpay, you need inspiration from the best.

Let’s look at the best BNPL apps in the market and learn from them. These are, as mentioned below:

1. Klarna

Klarna Shop now. Pay later

Klarna is yet another top buy now pay later mobile app. The platform is compatible with almost all major online store and service marketplace solutions.

Quite similar to Afterpay itself, it allows the user to pay them the whole amount at once or in easy EMIs.

And the best part is, all of this can be done with your mobile phone, you don’t need to go anywhere or meet anyone. All in all, it is one of the best BNPL and cash advance apps in the market today.

2. PayPal Credit

PayPal

PayPal is the best example of eWallet app development done right. This one has been around for some time.

Being one of the most popular mobile wallet solutions, it doesn’t come as a surprise when you learn that they came up with their own Buy Now Pay Later solution known as, PayPal credit.

With this, PayPal users can now get credit straight to their wallet and pay back later as per their convenience. It is one of the top Afterpay-like mobile applications.

3. Sezzle

Sezzle BNPL App like Klarna

Sezzle might not be as popular as apps like Afterpay or PayPal Credits, but it is definitely growing in popularity at a steady pace and a top fintech app.

This application, just like other BNPL platforms, enables the users to buy things by paying the entire amount up front and then paying back in easy EMI with no involvement of interest (if all conditions are meant).

Still not inspired enough to build your own app like Afterpay? Let’s give you some reasons to go for it in the section below.

Why You Should Consider Developing an App Like Afterpay?

While a lot of people ask, how to create an app like Afterpay, another important question would “why build an app like Afterpay?”

People often look for reasons to invest in app development with it being a big venture. So, let’s look at some of the top reasons below:

Upfront Payment. The BNPL service provides to pay the full concerned amount upfront. So, there is no risk to the seller.
More Shopping, More Profit. Industry information demonstrates the way that traders can expand their exchange rate by 20% to 30% with a BNPL administration.
Transaction Cost. With BNPL services, the transaction cost is considerably lower when compared to the alternative.
Growing User Base.  With more than 50% of the consumer base using this platform, we can say that the user base is expanding at a good rate.
Revenue Generation Opportunity. With all the features and opportunities combined, one can say that it is quite easy to generate record breaking revenue in this market.

Essential Features to Include When You Build an App Like Afterpay

Features are an essential part of building an app like Afterpay that’s successful among users. Now, it is recommended that you fill your app with a unique feature that caters to market demand.

With this being said, let’s look at the features that you should include when you make app like Afterpay.

Features User Panel Admin Panel
1. Account Management
  • Login/Signup
  • Profile editing (name, email, contact information)
  • Change password
  • Manage linked bank accounts/payment methods
  • User management (create, edit, delete)
  • View user details and activity
  • Manage user roles and permissions
2. Transactions
  • View transaction history
  • Search and filter transactions
  • Download transaction statements
  • Make repayments
  • Schedule upcoming payments
  • View all transactions
  • Search and filter transactions by user, date, amount, etc.
  • Manage refunds and disputes
  • Export transaction data
3. Loan Management
  • View current loan details (amount, interest rate, repayment schedule)
  • Simulate different repayment scenarios
  • Request early repayment – Manage automatic repayments
  • Set loan limits for users
  • Manage different loan products and terms
  • Monitor loan performance (defaults, delinquencies)
  • Generate loan reports
4. Security & Compliance
  • Two-factor authentication
  • Secure login and transaction processes
  • Access to privacy policy and terms of service
  • User data encryption
  • Compliance with relevant regulations (KYC, AML)
  • Manage user access controls and permissions
5. Notifications & Messaging
  • Receive payment reminders and notifications
  • Contact customer support through in-app chat or email
  • Send targeted notifications to users (promotions, updates)
  • Manage communication channels with users
6. Additional Features
  • Budgeting tools and financial insights
  • Loyalty programs and rewards
  • Marketplace integration for discovering BNPL-enabled merchants
  • Merchant management (onboarding, approvals)
  • Fraud detection and prevention tools
  • Data analytics and reporting dashboards

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Advanced Features for Afterpay Like App

If you want to build a fintech app that disrupts the market, you can’t ignore the importance of unique features.

Advance Feature For AfterPay Like App

So, here are 10 advanced features that will keep your users engaged, promote responsible financial behavior, and make your app the go-to choice for savvy spenders:

1. AI-Powered Budgeting & Insights

Go beyond basic transactions. Help users understand their spending habits, set realistic goals, and make informed financial decisions with personalized recommendations powered by AI.

2. Gamify Responsible Spending

Make saving and responsible borrowing fun! Implement gamified elements like points, badges, and rewards to incentivize users and keep them on track.

3. Expand Credit Access

Don’t limit yourself to traditional credit scores. Leverage alternative data and machine learning to assess creditworthiness, opening doors for a wider user base.

4. Pre-Approved Spending Power

Empower customers to shop confidently with pre-approved BNPL limits displayed at checkout. No more checkout surprises!

5. Bill Pay Integration

Simplify bill management. Allow users to pay all their bills, including BNPL installments, from one convenient location within your app.

6. Subscription Management Hub

Take control of recurring payments. Offer an easy-to-use tool for users to track, pause, cancel, or adjust their BNPL subscriptions and other recurring payments.

7. Marketplace Expansion

Partner with other financial institutions and services. Provide users with a one-stop shop for managing their finances, offering access to savings accounts, investments, and more.

8. Build a Financial Community

Foster engagement and empower users. Create social features that allow them to connect, share tips, and participate in discussions around responsible spending and financial wellness.

9. Open Banking Connection

Unlock the power of open banking. Integrate with user bank accounts for automatic transaction categorization, real-time balance updates, and personalized financial insights.

10. In-app Financial Education

Empower informed decisions. Provide users with access to educational resources and articles on financial literacy, responsible borrowing, and debt management, helping them navigate their financial journey with confidence.

Now that we are done with this, let’s move to the next section, where we shall learn to make an app like Afterpay.

Steps to Develop an App Like Afterpay

Developing a mobile app isn’t all that hard, but isn’t a piece of cake either.

Rather, you can say, it highly depends on your knowledge of the matter. You see, there are a number of steps involved in developing apps like Afterpay.

Therefore, in this section of the blog, we shall be looking at all you need to know about Afterpay App.

Steps to Build An App Like Afterpay

Let’s get right into it.Steps to Build a Buy Now Pay Later app are:

Step 1: Come up With an Idea & Research

The first step of developing a mobile application is to come up with an idea. While it might seem like the simplest step, this is probably the hardest one.

In any case, once you are done with the ideation, it’s time to confirm the validation of idea via mobile app market research.

This is the part where you dive into the market and learn about competitors, market barriers, people’s opinion, your target user base, and so on.

Step 2: Monetize it

When you have an idea, you need to monetize the same.

There are various monetization strategies and we too discussed the same earlier in the blog. You can choose the one that best fits your fintech business model.

Some of the top monetization model for Afterpay like platform are, as mentioned below:

Revenue Stream Description Example
Merchant Fees Charge merchants a fee for each transaction processed through the BNPL platform. Typically a percentage of the transaction value (e.g., 3-6%) or a fixed fee per transaction.
Late Fees Charge customers a late fee for missed or delayed payments. Varies depending on the platform and regulations, but often a flat fee or a percentage of the outstanding balance.
Interest on Extended Plans For longer repayment plans, charge customers interest on the outstanding balance. Rates vary depending on the platform, creditworthiness, and loan duration.
Subscription Fees Offer premium features or benefits for a monthly or annual subscription fee. This could include priority access to credit lines, lower interest rates, or additional financial services.
Data Monetization Leverage anonymized user data for targeted advertising or partnerships with other financial institutions. Requires careful consideration of user privacy and compliance with data regulations.
Value-added Services Offer additional financial services like budgeting tools, savings accounts, or insurance products within the app. Generates revenue through transaction fees, interest charges, or partnerships with other providers.

Step 3: Complete Tech Stack

It’s time to choose the technologies.

For instance, choose between Android and iOS app development. Or go for hybrid app development to get the best of both worlds.

Apart from this, there are many more technologies that goes into mobile app tech stack. They are, as mentioned below:

Components Technology Options Pros Cons
1. Frontend React Native, Flutter Cross-platform development, flexible UI, large community Requires more development effort for native look and feel
2. Backend Node.js, Python (Django/Flask) Scalable, mature frameworks, large developer pool Can be complex for beginners
3. Database PostgreSQL, MongoDB Robust, ACID compliant (PostgreSQL), flexible schema (MongoDB) Choosing the right one depends on specific needs
4. Payment Gateway Stripe, Braintree, Adyen Secure, integrated payment processing solutions Fees associated with transactions
5. Fraud Detection Sift, Riskified, FraudeLabs Pro Reduce fraudulent transactions, ensure financial security Requires ongoing monitoring and configuration
6. Credit Scoring Plaid, LexisNexis Risk Solutions Assess creditworthiness of borrowers, make informed lending decisions may require additional compliance measures
7. Notifications Twilio, Pushwoosh Send real-time updates to users and improve engagement Cost associated with sending notifications
8. Analytics Google Analytics, Firebase Analytics Track user behavior and measure app performance Requires integration and data analysis expertise

Step 4: Hire App Developers

It’s time to find an app developer for your project.

Now, there are various ways you can go looking for a development partner, however, here are some of the most commonly used ones:

Also Read: In-House Vs Outsourcing

Step 5: Front-End Development

Since we have already specified the features, we can directly start with the front-end development.

Here, the UI/UX Design team will be creating they will be the design of the app and integrating all the other components together.

When this is done, we can move to the back-end development process.

Step 6: Back-End Development

During the back-end development, the developers will be writing the source code of the application.

This is quite a long as well as resource-consuming process. Therefore, it is recommended that you pay especially attention when you create an app like Afterpay.

Step 7: Testing & Deployment

Mobile app testing is essential to ensure quality and consistency before deployment. Here, it is deployed in the live environment to check for bugs and errors.

When all of that is done, it will be deployed. The process itself depends based on your choice between android and iOS app development i.e. the app development platform.

Also Read: How To Deploy iOS Apps? How To Launch Android App?

Step 8: App Maintenance & Support

App Maintenance & Support services are important to keep the app up and running. This is something that you should be considering.

After this, you may also start the app marketing process to generate demand for the solution in the market.

So, these are the steps to build an app like Afterpay. Now, let’s see how much this will cost you.

How Much Does It Cost to Develop an App Like Afterpay?

Developing a mobile app does come with a cost. And this remains true when you develop an app like Afterpay.

However, the cost associated with developing a mobile application isn’t accurately predictable. Reason is that each project is unique and so are its requirements. Therefore, the cost associated with them is also unique.

There are so many factors though which can affect the development cost. These are, as mentioned below:

  • Tech stack
  • Developer’s Experience
  • Security
  • Security
  • App Size and Hosting
  • Developer’s Location
  • Features and Design
  • Testing Process
  • App Maintenance

These are some of the factors that can affect the development cost. However, if we talk about the average cost to build a BNPL app, you can expect anything between $30,000 and $60,000.

For a closer buy now pay later app development estimate, it is recommended that you consult a mobile app development company as they can give you a better quote based on your specifications.

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Partner With Nimble AppGenie & Build An App Like Afterpay

If you want to build the next best app like Afterpay, we are here to help you.

With 700+ projects under our name and recognition from top platforms like Clutch.co, DesignRush, and GoodFirms, we are the best BNPL app development company in the market.

Here are some of our top projects.

  • Pay By Check – Ewallet Mobile App
  • DafriBank – Digital Bank of Africa
  • SatPay – E-wallet Platform
  • CUT–E-Wallet Mobile App
  • SatBorsa – A Currency Exchange Fintech App

If you want to be the next best in BNPL and give platforms like Apple, Afterpay and Klarna a run for their money, hire mobile app developers with us.

We are just a click away.

Conclusions

The BNPL market presents a dynamic and exciting space for entrepreneurs to make their mark.

By delving into the intricacies of this sector, you can gain valuable insights into the essential features, functionalities, and development process required to craft a robust and user-centric BNPL app that rivals industry leaders like Afterpay.

Remember, the key to success lies in prioritizing user experience. Design an app that is intuitive, user-friendly, and fosters responsible financial practices.

Don’t shy away from incorporating innovative features that set you apart from the competition.

By focusing on these crucial aspects, you can attract and retain a loyal user base, propelling your BNPL app towards long-term success in this ever-evolving market.

FAQs

While credit cards are usually concerned with larger amounts and takes a long process to acquire one, the BNPL is quite a fast process and usually deals with a much smaller amount. This is the basic difference between BNLP vs credit card.

Afterpay is a popular Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) platform that allows users to make purchases online and pay for them in installments over a short period, typically four installments every two weeks.

When you shop at a store that partners with Afterpay, you can choose Afterpay as your payment method at checkout. The total purchase amount is then split into four equal installments, which you pay off over six weeks. There are no interest charges if you make your payments on time.

  • Spread out payments: Break down your purchases into smaller, more manageable payments.
  • No interest: Pay no interest if you make your payments on time.
  • Shop now, pay later: Enjoy your purchases immediately while spreading out the cost.

  • Late fees: If you miss a payment, you will be charged a late fee.
  • Insufficient Funds Fee: If there are insufficient funds in your account to make a payment, you will be charged a fee.

Afterpay uses industry-standard security measures to protect your personal and financial information. However, it’s important to be responsible with your spending and make sure you can afford the repayments before using any BNPL service.

  • Klarna
  • PayPal Credit
  • Sezzle
  • Affirm

The cost of developing an app like Afterpay can vary depending on several factors such as the features, complexity, and chosen tech stack. However, a rough estimate can range from $30,000 to $60,000.

  • Monetization strategy: How will the app generate revenue? (e.g., merchant fees, late fees)
  • Compliance with regulations: Ensure adherence to relevant financial regulations.
  • Security: Implement robust security measures to protect user data and financial information.
  • User experience: Design a user-friendly and intuitive app interface.

The BNPL market is growing rapidly, but it is also becoming increasingly competitive. Before developing a BNPL app, it’s crucial to conduct thorough market research, identify a unique value proposition, and have a solid business plan in place.

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