How to Build a Video Streaming App Like Netflix: Features, Process and Alternatives

Video streaming is now a part of everyday life. From movies and shows to educational and fitness content, users prefer watching content on demand. If you’ve ever thought about building your own video streaming app like Netflix, now is a good time.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know from features and technology to development cost and monetization options of building a streaming app similar to Netflix.

Why Build a Video Streaming App Like Netflix?

Netflix changed the way people watch content. It’s convenient, personalized, and available across all devices. Building a similar platform allows you to tap into a growing audience that’s moving away from traditional TV.

Whether you’re a content creator, production house, or entrepreneur looking to enter the OTT space, video streaming apps offer flexibility, reach, and recurring income.

Few strong reasons to consider building your own streaming app:

• Massive shift to digital viewing, especially on mobile
• Growth of regional and niche content demand
• Opportunities to launch platforms for sports, education, fitness, entertainment, or documentaries
• Ability to directly reach and grow your audience

Key Features Every Streaming App Similar to Netflix Should Have

When you build a video streaming app like Netflix, the goal is to make it easy, enjoyable, and convenient for users to watch content. Below are the must-have features, explained in simple terms:

User Features

These are the features your audience will interact with while using the app.

1. User Registration and Login

Let users sign up and log in using their email, mobile number, or social accounts (like Google or Facebook). This makes onboarding quick and also allows personalization.

2. User Profiles and Preferences

Allow users to create individual profiles (especially in family accounts) so each person gets their own viewing history, recommendations, and watchlist. Think of Netflix profiles for kids or adults.

3. Search and Filters

Users should be able to search for specific shows, movies, or genres using keywords. Filters like “language,” “genre,” “release year,” or “popularity” help narrow down choices.

4. Smart Recommendations

The app should suggest shows or movies based on what users have already watched. This keeps them engaged and reduces decision fatigue.

5. Watchlist / Favorites

Users often like to save content to watch later. A watchlist feature lets them bookmark movies or series so they don’t forget.

6. Multi-Device Streaming

Your app should work across devices i.e., phones, tablets, laptops, and smart TVs. Let users start watching on one device and continue on another.

7. Subtitles and Multi-Language Support

Offer subtitles and dubbing in different languages. This makes your content accessible to a wider audience, including those with hearing impairments.

8. Video Quality Options

Allow viewers to adjust streaming quality manually (e.g., 480p, 720p, 1080p) depending on their internet speed or data usage preferences. Automatic adjustment based on network speed is also helpful.

9. Resume Playback

Let users continue watching from where they left off, even if they switch devices. This is one of the most expected features.

10. Offline Download

Enable users to download content and watch it later without the internet. This is especially useful for travelers or those with limited data access.

11. Ratings and Reviews

Allow users to rate shows and movies or read others’ feedback before watching. It helps them decide and also builds a sense of community.

Admin Features

These are the tools your team or platform owner needs to manage content, users, and revenue.

1. Content Management System (CMS)

Admins should be able to upload, categorize, and schedule content. Managing banners, featured content, and organizing shows by genre or language should be easy.

2. User Management

Admins should have access to user data, subscription details, and behavior analytics. This helps with support, personalization, and platform monitoring.

3. Analytics Dashboard

A real-time dashboard shows important metrics like:

• Number of active users
• Most-watched content
• Drop-off points
• Revenue reports

This data helps you improve both content and user experience.

4. Monetization Settings

Easily manage subscription plans, discounts, pay-per-view pricing, and ad campaigns if you’re running an AVOD (Advertising-based Video on Demand) model.

5. Push Notification Control

Send targeted notifications for new releases, subscription reminders, or personalized suggestions. It helps boost engagement and return visits.

Advanced Features (for better user experience & scalability)

These are features that go beyond the basics and can help you stand out.

1. AI-Powered Recommendations

Using machine learning, you can offer smarter suggestions based on a user’s behavior, watch time, search patterns, and ratings.

2. Multi-Screen Sync

Allow multiple users to stream on different devices at the same time. For example, in a family account, one person can watch on a mobile while another watches on a TV.

3. Live Streaming

Useful for broadcasting live sports, webinars, concerts, or news. You can also offer event-based paid streams.

4. Interactive Content

Some platforms now allow users to choose how a story unfolds (like Netflix’s “Bandersnatch”). Interactive content boosts engagement and rewatch value.

5. Parental Controls

Give families the option to restrict certain types of content for kids. Features can include age filtering, content lock, and viewing time limits.

6. Content Protection (DRM & Encryption)

To protect your content from piracy or illegal downloads, integrate DRM (Digital Rights Management) and encrypted streaming. This ensures your videos are safe.

Technology Stack You Need to Build a Video Streaming App

A strong technology foundation ensures your streaming app is fast, scalable, secure, and easy to use across different devices. Below is an overview of the main components involved in building a video streaming platform like Netflix:

Part	Recommended Tech Options
Frontend (App UI)	React Native, Flutter, React.js, Next.js
Backend	Node.js, Python, Ruby on Rails
Database	PostgreSQL, MongoDB
Cloud Hosting	AWS, Google Cloud, Azure
Storage & Streaming	AWS S3, Cloudflare CDN, HLS protocol
Authentication	Firebase Auth, OAuth 2.0
Payment Gateway	Stripe, Razorpay, PayPal
Analytics	Google Analytics, Mixpanel, Amplitude

1. Frontend (User Interface)

This is what users see and interact with (buttons, screens, video player, menus, etc.)

• React Native / Flutter (for mobile apps): Help build cross-platform apps that work on both iOS and Android using a single codebase.
• React.js / Next.js (for web apps): Used for building responsive, modern web interfaces that load quickly and work across all browsers.
• TV App SDKs (e.g., Android TV, Apple TV): Required if you plan to support smart TVs, set-top boxes, or game consoles.

2. Backend (Server-Side Logic)

This is the engine behind the app. It handles content delivery, user management, subscriptions, and everything the user doesn’t see.

• Node.js / Python / Ruby on Rails / Java: These programming frameworks are used to write the backend code that powers the app, manages data, and runs business logic.

3. Database

Stores all user data, preferences, content metadata, watch history, and more.

• PostgreSQL / MySQL: Reliable relational databases used for structured data like users, subscriptions, and transactions.
• MongoDB: A flexible NoSQL database, useful for storing content tags, metadata, or less structured information.

4. Cloud Hosting & Storage

Where your app and videos are hosted and served to users.

• AWS / Google Cloud / Microsoft Azure: Cloud providers offer scalable storage, security, and infrastructure for storing and delivering your content.
• AWS S3 / Google Cloud Storage: Used for storing large video files in a secure and cost-effective way.

5. Video Streaming Protocol

These protocols break video into chunks and deliver them efficiently based on user internet speed.

• HLS (HTTP Live Streaming): Most popular and widely supported streaming format across mobile and web platforms.
• MPEG-DASH: Another adaptive streaming protocol that ensures smooth playback without buffering.

6. Content Delivery Network (CDN)

Helps deliver video content faster by caching it on servers around the world.

• Cloudflare / AWS CloudFront / Akamai: CDNs reduce load times and buffering by serving content from the nearest server to the user.

7. Authentication & User Management

Controls user login, account access, and security.

• Firebase Auth / OAuth 2.0 / Auth0: These services help users sign in securely using email, phone, or social accounts.

8. Payment Gateway

Allows users to subscribe, rent, or pay for content.

• Stripe / Razorpay / PayPal: These platforms process payments securely and integrate with your app for subscriptions, one-time payments, and invoicing.

9. Analytics & Monitoring Tools

Track how users behave on the platform and how the app performs.

• Google Analytics / Mixpanel / Amplitude / Firebase Analytics: Provide insights into user behavior, top-performing content, drop-off points, and overall platform health.

10. Video DRM & Security

Protects your content from unauthorized downloads and piracy.

• Google Widevine / Apple FairPlay / Microsoft PlayReady: DRM (Digital Rights Management) systems encrypt your content and ensure it only plays on authorized devices.

Each of these tools and services plays an essential role in building a successful streaming app. The right tech stack depends on your budget, audience, goals, and scale of operations.

How Do Streaming Apps Make Money?

Building a video streaming app like Netflix isn't just about providing content, it's also about creating a sustainable business model. Depending on your goals, audience, and content strategy, there are several ways to generate revenue from a streaming platform.

Top Monetization Strategies Leveraged by Streaming Apps

Here are the the top monetization models used by successful video streaming apps:

1. Subscription-Based Model (SVOD)

In this model, users pay a recurring fee (monthly, quarterly, or yearly) to access unlimited content.

How it works:

• You offer one or more subscription plans (e.g., Basic, Premium, Family).
• Users pay for access to the entire content library during their active subscription.
• Examples: Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video
• Best for: Platforms with a large and regularly updated content library, or niche audiences who value high-quality content.

2. Ad-Supported Model (AVOD)

Users can watch content for free, but they are shown ads during playback. You earn revenue from advertisers.

How it works:

• Display short ads before, during, or after videos.
• The more users you have, the more ad revenue you can generate.
• Examples: YouTube, Tubi, Pluto TV
• Best for: Mass-market platforms looking for a wide user base, especially in regions with lower willingness to pay for subscriptions.

3. Pay-Per-View (TVOD)

Users pay individually for each piece of content they want to watch. This is common for new releases, live events, or exclusive content.

How it works:

• Charge users a one-time fee to rent or purchase a movie, episode, or event stream.
• Examples: iTunes, Google Play Movies, sports streaming platforms
• Best for: Event-based content, film festivals, or limited-time releases that have a strong demand.

4. Freemium Model

Some content is available for free, while premium content requires a subscription or payment.

How it works:

• Attract users with free content.
• Encourage them to upgrade for exclusive shows, ad-free viewing, or additional features.
• Examples: Spotify (video content), Crunchyroll
• Best for: Startups looking to build a user base first, then convert loyal users into paying customers.

5. Hybrid Monetization

This combines two or more revenue models. For example, offering free content with ads and also paid subscriptions for premium or ad-free access.

How it works:

• Users choose between watching for free with ads or subscribing for a better experience.
• You can also add pay-per-view for special content or events.
• Examples: Hulu (ads + subscription), Hotstar (freemium + subscription)
• Best for: Platforms aiming to serve a diverse audience with different preferences and budgets.

Bonus: Licensing and Partnerships

Once your platform gains popularity, you can also license your content to other platforms, or partner with telecom providers, smart TV manufacturers, or educational institutions.

Choosing the Right Revenue Model

Your monetization strategy should align with:

• Your target audience's behavior and region
• Type of content (premium, niche, or general)
• Your growth stage (early-stage vs. established platform)
• Budget for content production or licensing

Our team at Softices can help you decide the best revenue model based on your goals and build the right tools to support it, from subscription systems to ad integrations and paywall controls.

Step-by-Step Process to Build a Video Streaming App

Building a streaming app like Netflix involves careful planning, the right technology, and a clear focus on user experience. Here's a simplified step-by-step guide:

1. Identify Your Niche and Audience

Decide what kind of content you want to offer like entertainment, sports, education, fitness, regional shows, etc., and define your target users. This shapes your platform’s design and features.

2. Plan Your Content Strategy

Choose whether you’ll stream licensed content, create original shows, or allow user-generated videos. Content is what keeps users coming back, so plan it thoughtfully.

3. Design the User Experience (UI/UX)

Sketch out how the app will look and feel with promising UI/UX. Focus on easy navigation, clean layouts, and a smooth viewing experience across all devices.

4. Choose the Right Tech Stack

Select reliable technologies for frontend, backend, cloud storage, streaming protocols, and security. A strong tech foundation ensures stability and scalability.

5. Build the MVP (Minimum Viable Product)

Start with MVP, a basic version of the app that includes essential features like sign-up, video playback, content listing, and subscriptions. It helps you launch faster and test the market.

6. Integrate Video Hosting and Streaming Setup

Store your video files in the cloud, use a CDN to deliver them efficiently, and implement streaming protocols like HLS for smooth playback on all networks.

7. Enable User Management and Payment Integration

Allow users to create accounts, manage profiles, and subscribe to plans. Add secure payment gateways to handle transactions and billing.

8. Add Security and DRM Protection

Protect your content from piracy using encryption and DRM services like Widevine or FairPlay. This is critical for premium or exclusive videos.

9. Test Across Devices

Test the app on different devices and network conditions to ensure smooth performance, compatibility, and a bug-free user experience.

10. Launch and Gather Feedback

Release the app to a limited audience or go live fully. Monitor usage, collect feedback, and identify areas for improvement.

11. Scale and Optimize

Once your user base grows, you can add new features, expand to more platforms (like Smart TVs), and improve performance using analytics data.

Key Obstacles to Plan for When Creating a Netflix-like Streaming App

Building a video streaming app is exciting, but it also comes with technical and business challenges. Understanding these in advance helps you make better decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

Here are the key challenges you need to be prepared for:

1. Maintaining Smooth Streaming Experience

Viewers expect content to play instantly without buffering. To meet this demand, you need:

• A fast content delivery system (CDN)
• Adaptive streaming based on internet speed
• High-performance servers

Poor streaming quality can drive users away, even if your content is good.

2. Handling Large Traffic and Concurrency

If many users try to watch content at the same time, especially during a new release or live event, your servers must be able to handle the load. Without proper scaling, the app could crash or slow down.

3. Protecting Content from Piracy

One of the biggest risks in streaming is unauthorized downloads or sharing. Without proper encryption and DRM (Digital Rights Management), your content can easily be copied and circulated.

4. Content Licensing and Legal Compliance

If you're using third-party content, you need clear licensing agreements. Also, depending on the region you operate in, there may be regulations around content, taxes, and data privacy you need to follow.

5. Delivering to Users in Remote or Low-Bandwidth Areas

In many regions, internet speed may not be consistent. Your app needs to support multiple video quality options and fast switching between resolutions to provide a smooth experience for everyone.

6. Managing Storage and Bandwidth Costs

Video files are large and can quickly lead to high cloud storage and bandwidth expenses. Without optimization, you might end up paying more than expected as your content library grows.

7. Keeping the Platform Secure

From user data to payment information, your app handles sensitive data. You need proper security measures like:

• Secure login (OAuth, token-based)
• Encrypted payment processing
• Protection from hacking or DDoS attacks

8. Device and Platform Compatibility

Users access content from various devices like phones, tablets, laptops, TVs, and even gaming consoles. Ensuring that your app works well across all platforms requires extra testing and development effort.

9. Content Discovery and Personalization

With a growing content library, users can easily feel overwhelmed. If your app doesn't recommend relevant content or make it easy to find, users might leave, even if the content is great.

10. User Retention and Engagement

Acquiring users is just the beginning. You need to keep them engaged through regular content updates, personalized recommendations, notifications, and a user-friendly experience.

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Video Streaming App?

The cost of building a video streaming app like Netflix depends on several factors, your feature list, platform choices (mobile, web, smart TV), design complexity, and the scale you’re aiming for. Here’s a practical breakdown to help you estimate your budget:

Factors That Affect the Cost of Developing Streaming Apps:

• Features & Functionality: A basic app with login, video playback, and subscriptions will cost much less than an advanced platform with AI-powered recommendations, live streaming, and multi-device sync.
• Number of Platforms: Building for Android and iOS is standard, but if you also want a web app or smart TV support, development time and cost will increase.
• Design Requirements: Custom animations, a polished UI, and responsive layouts across devices take more time and resources.
• Streaming Infrastructure: You'll need cloud hosting, storage, and a CDN to ensure smooth delivery. These services are billed monthly based on usage.
• Content Management: If you plan to manage a large library of videos or allow user uploads, you’ll need a robust backend and admin dashboard.
• Security Features: DRM, encryption, and secure payment integration are essential but add to the development effort.

Estimated Cost Range:

App Scope	Estimated Budget
MVP (Basic mobile app)	$20,000 - $50,000
Full-featured app (mobile + web)	$60,000 - $100,000+
Advanced app with Smart TV support	$100,000 - $200,000+

Development Phase	What’s Included	Estimated Cost Range
UI/UX Design	Wireframes, visual design, user flows, responsive layouts for mobile/web	$1,000 - $3,000
Frontend Development	User interface for mobile, web, or TV apps (React Native, React.js, etc.)	$8,000 - $12,000+
Backend Development	Server-side logic, video management, API development, user control, CMS	$15,000 - $25,000+
Video Hosting & Streaming Setup	CDN integration, video encoding, cloud storage, streaming protocols	$5,000 - $10,000+
Payments & Subscriptions	Payment gateway integration, recurring billing, free trials, offers	$1,000 - $3,000
Security & DRM	Encryption, Digital Rights Management (DRM), secure login, anti-piracy setup	$4,000 - $10,000+
QA & Testing	Manual and automated testing, device compatibility, network testing	$5,000 - $10,000
Deployment & Launch	App Store / Play Store deployment, backend hosting setup, initial monitoring	$5,000 - $10,000
Maintenance (Monthly)	Updates, bug fixing, performance improvements, content support	$2,000 - $5,000/month

These are ballpark figures and can vary depending on the location of your development team, licensing costs (if any), and ongoing maintenance needs.

Ongoing Costs to Consider:

• Cloud hosting and CDN (AWS, Cloudflare, etc.)
• Video storage and encoding
• Monthly app maintenance and updates
• Marketing and user acquisition
• Support staff or moderation (if needed)

Building a video streaming app doesn’t always mean starting with a massive budget. With a great and supportive development partner like Softices, you don’t have to go all in from day one.

We can help you launch a fully functional MVP (Minimum Viable Product) with essential features, designed for your target audience and market at around 10-15% of the full development cost.

This lets you:

• Enter the market faster
• Validate your idea with real users
• Improve based on actual feedback
• Avoid unnecessary upfront investment

We focus on building smart, scalable solutions that grow with your business. Whether you’re starting from scratch or expanding your digital presence, we’ll guide you through every step.

Popular Streaming Apps Besides Netflix

Netflix may be the most recognized name in streaming, but it’s not the only successful platform out there. Many apps have carved out strong positions by focusing on different types of content, audiences, or monetization models.

Here are some well-known video streaming platforms that can inspire your own app idea:

1. Amazon Prime Video

A subscription-based platform offering a wide mix of movies, web series, original content, and regional titles. Prime Video also allows users to rent or buy individual titles that are not part of the free library.

What makes it stand out:

• Combination of SVOD and TVOD
• Expanding library of originals (e.g., The Boys, Mirzapur)
• Integrated with Amazon ecosystem

2. Disney+ (JioHotstar in India)

Disney+ has become a go-to platform for family-friendly content, superhero franchises, and animated movies. In India, it’s combined with Hotstar to offer sports and regional content as well.

What makes it stand out:

• Exclusive access to Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars content
• Multiple monetization models (free, subscription, pay-per-view)
• Sports streaming (via Hotstar)

3. Hulu

Popular in the U.S., Hulu offers current-season TV episodes from major networks, along with movies and originals. It uses a hybrid model - ads for basic plans, ad-free for premium.

What makes it stand out:

• Fast access to newly aired TV shows
• Affordable plans with ads
• Hulu + Live TV option for cord-cutters

4. YouTube

Technically not an OTT platform in the traditional sense, but YouTube is the world’s largest video-sharing platform. It supports free ad-based viewing, live streaming, and premium subscriptions.

What makes it stand out:

• Massive variety of user-generated and official content
• Monetization options for creators
• Live streaming and community interaction features

5. Apple TV+

Apple’s premium streaming service focuses solely on original content, no licensed shows or movies. It has invested heavily in producing high-quality, exclusive series and films.

What makes it stand out:

• Exclusive originals like Ted Lasso and Severance
• High production quality
• Free trials with Apple devices

6. Tubi

A completely free, ad-supported streaming service, Tubi offers movies and TV shows across genres. Owned by Fox Corporation, it’s one of the fastest-growing AVOD platforms.

What makes it stand out:

• 100% free with no subscriptions
• Wide range of classic and niche content
• Supported on nearly every device

7. CuriosityStream

CuriosityStream is a niche platform focused on factual content, documentaries, science, nature, and education. A great example of how focusing on a specific genre can still attract a global audience.

What makes it stand out:

• Low-cost subscription
• Educational and non-fiction focus
• Global reach for knowledge-based content

These examples show that you don’t need to clone Netflix to succeed. You can find success by offering value in a specific niche, creating unique content, or using a monetization model that fits your audience better.

Streaming App Development Trends for 2025

If you're thinking of building a video streaming app, it's helpful to know where the industry is heading. Now more than ever, user needs and technology are changing fast. Here are the key trends shaping streaming app development this year:

1. Smarter Recommendations with AI

Apps are getting better at showing the right content to each user. With Artificial Intelligence, streaming platforms now suggest shows and videos based on your viewing habits, what time you usually watch, and what others like you are watching.

2. More Local and Niche Platforms

Instead of trying to be like Netflix, many new apps are focusing on local languages or specific topics like fitness, education, or spiritual content. This helps them reach audiences that feel ignored by bigger platforms.

3. Live Streaming is Growing

Apps are now offering live video for things like workout classes, online events, religious talks, and training sessions. Viewers enjoy the real-time connection and many are willing to pay for it.

4. Flexible Ways to Earn

Platforms are not just relying on subscriptions. Many apps offer a mix such as free videos with ads, one-time payments for certain content, or even options to tip creators. This helps reach more types of users.

5. Support for More Devices

Streaming is no longer limited to phones or laptops. People also watch on smart TVs, gaming consoles, and even in cars. New apps are being built to work smoothly on all these devices.

6. Better Video Quality with Less Data

As more people watch videos in remote areas or on mobile data, apps are using better video formats to stream good-quality videos without using too much data. This makes the experience smoother for everyone.

7. Interactive and Engaging Content

Some apps now offer videos where users can make choices during the story, join live chats, or answer questions while watching. These features help keep viewers more involved.

8. More Focus on Privacy and Security

With so much content and user data being shared, streaming apps are paying more attention to safety using proper encryption, secure payments, and better content protection to prevent piracy.

9. In-App Communities

Some platforms now include chat rooms, comment sections, or group watch options. These features help users feel part of a community and make them want to come back.

10. Simple Navigation with Voice or Gestures

Many apps are now adding support for voice commands (like “play next episode”) or simple gestures on TV remotes, making it easier for people to use the app especially kids and elderly users.

Kickstart Your OTT Streaming App Development with the Right Team

Building a video streaming app like Netflix is a big opportunity, but it’s not just about replicating what already exists. It’s about creating a smooth, enjoyable experience that meets the needs of your unique audience.

Whether you plan to stream entertainment, fitness, education, or niche documentaries, the success of your platform depends on:

• Understanding your target users
• Delivering high-quality content
• Providing smooth, fast, and secure video experiences
• Choosing the right features and monetization model

Yes, there are technical challenges and cost considerations, but with a clear roadmap and a capable media and entertainment development partner, you can build an app that not only performs well but also grows over time.

At Softices, we help you simplify the entire process from idea validation and MVP development to launch, scaling, and ongoing support.