From Idea to Launch: How to Build an App Like Paramount+

The entertainment world just had its own blockbuster moment. On July 7, 2024, Paramount Global and Skydance Media shook hands on an $8 billion deal, merging into a mega-entity called Paramount Skydance Corporation, valued at a jaw-dropping $28 billion.

With the FCC giving the final nod in July 2025 and Oracle eyeing a $100M/year cloud deal post-merger, it’s clear that Paramount is powering up its streaming game like never before.

So, what does this mean for you? Opportunity. If you're inspired by Paramount's big leap and dreaming of launching your own streaming empire, this is your cue to build an app like Paramount+.

In this blog, we’ll break down the features, strategy, cost, and tech you need to create your own Paramount-style streaming app. Let’s dive in.

Key takeaways:

• The $8Billion merger of Paramount and Skydance into a $28Billion media powerhouse shows that streaming is the future.

• To build an app like Paramount+, you need niche targeting, seamless UI/UX, and the right tech stack.

• HD streaming, AI recommendations, DRM, and multi-device support are essential for user retention and monetization.

•  Creating a streaming app like Paramount+ can cost $40,000–$100,000+, depending on features and platforms.

•  Use AI, AR/VR, 5G, and gamification to stay ahead and boost engagement in your streaming platform like Paramount+

• With the OTT market booming, now is the perfect time to launch your own streaming app and JPLoft can help you lead the way.

What is the Paramount+ App?

Paramount+ is a subscription-based streaming platform that brings together a rich mix of blockbuster movies, TV shows, live sports, and original content from brands like CBS, Showtime, MTV, and Nickelodeon, all under one roof. 

It’s available across devices including smartphones, smart TVs, and gaming consoles, offering both on-demand and live content experiences. 

Since its rebranding from CBS All Access in 2021, Paramount+ has evolved into a major player in the OTT space, competing with giants like Netflix and Disney+. 

Its success is a prime example of how powerful content, strategic branding, and smart video streaming app development can create a globally recognized entertainment platform.

Market Insights Behind the Success of Paramount+

Paramount+ has become a major player in the streaming world and the numbers prove it.

Understanding these market statistics and trends are essential for anyone looking to build a video streaming app like Paramount+. 

Here’s a quick look at the statistics behind its growth:

• • As per AP News coverage, on July 7, 2024, Paramount Global and Skydance Media officially joined hands in an $8 billion merger deal. Together, they’ve formed a new company called Paramount Skydance Corporation, which is now valued at around $28 billion.
  • According to Cord Cutters News, as of June 30, 2025, Paramount+ had 77.7 million global subscribers, down 1.3 million compared to the previous quarter, largely due to the expiration of a European bundle agreement.
  • A study by Wall Street Journal, Paramount+ streaming (DTC) revenue significantly grow by ~15% YoY, climbing to approximately $2.16–2.2 billion, despite subscriber churn.
  • AInvest shows that average Revenue Per User (ARPU) grew by 9%, indicating improved monetization even amid static subscriber counts.

These figures underscore how Paramount+ is being positioned within a much larger, capital-backed streaming ecosystem, providing a powerful backdrop if you're looking to make an app like Paramount+ in today’s media landscape.

Why Should You Develop an App Like Paramount+?

The rise of OTT platforms has completely transformed how we consume entertainment. From global hits to regional favorites, people now prefer content that’s on-demand, on-the-go, and available across devices. 

In this rapidly growing industry, developing your own streaming platform isn't just innovative, it’s incredibly profitable. 

Here’s why you should build an app like Paramount+ in today’s market:

1. Massive Market Demand

Streaming giants like Netflix, Disney+, and Paramount+ have shown how powerful on-demand content can be. If you develop an app like Paramount+, you position yourself to tap into a market worth billions and still expanding.

2. Diverse Monetization Opportunities

Whether through subscriptions, ads, or freemium models, an on-demand video streaming app like Paramount+ opens doors to multiple revenue streams.

3. Content Control & Niche Targeting

You get to decide the type of content you deliver, be it entertainment, education, fitness, or regional. That flexibility allows you to reach a highly specific audience with tailored content.

4. Multi-Device Accessibility

Like Paramount+, you can build a platform that works seamlessly across smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and desktops, maximizing user engagement.

5. Proven Success Blueprint

Paramount+ is a perfect case study of how branding, strategic partnerships, and powerful app development can lead to global success.

So, if you're inspired by this success and ready to step into the OTT game, now is the best time to start an online video streaming business and make your mark in the digital entertainment world.

Must-Have Features to Include in an App Like Paramount+

When you decide to create an app like Paramount+, you’re not just creating another streaming service, you’re stepping into a world where top-notch user experience, seamless content delivery, and personalization rule.

Here’s why your video streaming app features can make or break the user journey:

• • Today’s users expect premium streaming experiences, from quick onboarding to buffer-free playback.
  • The right features keep users engaged, tools like watch history, recommendations, and smart downloads enhance retention.
  • Features shape monetization options, ad-based, subscription-based, or freemium, features support revenue models.

To ensure success in your custom video streaming app like Paramount+, here’s a long-form table that outlines all the must-have features for your platform:

By integrating these features, you're not just checking off boxes, you’re setting your on-demand video streaming app like Paramount+ on the path to success.

Step-by-Step Process to Develop an App like Paramount+

If you're thinking about how to develop a streaming app like Paramount+, you're not alone. 

In today’s digital world, binge-watching is the new normal, and the global demand for on-demand video streaming apps like Paramount+ is booming. 

So if you're ready to create an entertainment streaming app like Paramount+, here’s a clear step-by-step guide to help you get started and thrive in the OTT space.

Step 1: Conduct Market Research & Define Your Niche

The first step in any OTT app development journey is thorough market research. Understand who your users are, what content they crave, and how they consume it. 

Do they prefer sports, drama, documentaries, or kids’ shows? Analyzing them can help you define your niche and discover what gaps you can fill. 

Also, take time to study competitors like Netflix, Disney+, and others, to learn from their strengths and avoid their mistakes.

Step 2: Decide on Features & Functionality

When you build a video streaming app like Paramount+, features matter. From user registration and video playback to AI-driven recommendations and multi-device sync, the right functionality enhances user engagement. 

Think smart search, watchlists, multi-language support, parental controls, and personalized dashboards. These features don’t just enhance usability, they also drive retention and brand loyalty. 

To ensure smooth integration and innovation, it’s wise to hire dedicated developers who understand the nuances of OTT platforms.

Step 3: Design a Seamless UI/UX

To truly stand out, design a video streaming app that feels smooth, intuitive, and exciting to use. 

The user interface should make exploring content fun, not frustrating. Prioritize minimal navigation, elegant layout, a responsive video player, and options like dark mode. 

A great design directly impacts user retention and session length. Start with app wireframing to structure each screen clearly before development begins. 

Once your wireframes are ready, move to app prototyping to visualize user interactions, test usability, and make improvements before the final build.

Step 4: Choose the Right Tech Stack

To create an app like Paramount+ that performs well under load, your app tech stack must be robust. For cross-platform streaming app development like Paramount+, go with React Native or Flutter. 

Backend frameworks like Node.js or Python are ideal, and databases such as PostgreSQL or MongoDB keep things running smoothly. 

Hosting your cloud-based video streaming app like Paramount+ on AWS, Azure, or GCP will ensure stability and scalability. And don’t forget video streaming app security with features like end-to-end encryption, SSL, and DRM.

Step 5: Develop an MVP First

Rather than diving in with every possible feature, develop an app like Paramount+ starting with an MVP (Minimum Viable Product). 

This version should include essentials like video playback, user sign-in, subscription management, and a limited content catalog. 

MVPs help validate your idea quickly, save money, and allow real users to shape future development. 

To get started efficiently, it's smart to hire mobile app developers who specialize in MVP builds and can help you scale as your user base grows.

Step 6: Test Across Platforms Thoroughly

Whether you’re creating a Paramount+ like app for Android and iOS or expanding to web and smart TVs, comprehensive app testing is crucial. Check for playback issues, loading speed, app crashes, and UI glitches. 

Testing ensures your app delivers consistent performance across devices, screen sizes, and operating systems. You’ll also want to conduct usability testing to see how real users interact with your app’s navigation, controls, and content flow. 

Don’t forget to stress test your backend, especially if you’re using a cloud-based video streaming app like Paramount+ model to ensure it can handle peak traffic without lags or downtime.

Step 7: Launch, Monitor & Scale Your App

Now that your app is ready, it's time to launch. Monitor user interactions, app performance, and content popularity using analytics tools. This feedback loop allows you to tweak user experience, improve streaming speed, and scale wisely. 

Monitoring usage also reveals retention trends and areas for improvement. Begin by carefully submitting iOS apps to the App Store following Apple's review guidelines. 

Separately, make sure to publish apps to Google Play Store by optimizing your listing with relevant keywords and visuals to improve visibility. 

As your user base grows, continue updating features and scaling backend infrastructure to maintain a seamless experience.

Step 8: Post-launch Support & Ongoing Updates

A great app doesn’t stop at launch. Continue to refine your product based on user feedback and technological advancements. Regular updates, app maintenance service, bug fixes, and feature rollouts are essential. 

Keeping up with OS updates, new device compatibility, and evolving user expectations ensures your app remains relevant and high-performing in a dynamic market. 

Security patches, performance optimizations, and backend improvements are equally important to maintain user trust and deliver a seamless streaming experience.

Building a successful on-demand video streaming app like Paramount+ is no small task, but with the right strategy, tools, and team, it’s entirely achievable. 

From planning and design to launch and continuous support, every step contributes to creating a platform that users love. 

If you’re ready to bring your OTT vision to life, partnering with the best mobile app development company can make all the difference, helping you turn your streaming idea into a scalable, revenue-generating success.

Tech Stack for Building a Video Streaming App Like Paramount+

When you are exploring “how to build a streaming app like Paramount+” choosing the right tech stack is crucial for building a seamless, scalable, and high-performing video streaming platform.

Whether you're planning to offer live content, on-demand video, or personalized recommendations, a strong backend and engaging frontend are essential.

Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the video streaming app tech stack you’ll need to deliver a world-class user experience.

Your tech stack defines your app’s performance, scalability, and user experience. Whether you’re starting small or planning to build a global-level OTT platform, selecting the right technologies upfront is essential.

If you’re unsure where to begin, it’s a smart decision to consult a mobile app development company in Denver that understands modern OTT frameworks and can guide your architecture decisions.

How Much Does it Cost to Build an App Like Paramount+?

If you're planning to create a Video streaming app like Paramount+, the cost can vary depending on multiple factors such as platform choice, features, design complexity, and third-party integrations.

Whether you're aiming for cross-platform streaming app development like Paramount+ or a native iOS/Android solution, the investment required is substantial but scalable.

On average, the cost to develop an app like Netflix or Paramount+ can range between $40,000 to $100,000+, depending on development hours, location of your team, and app functionalities like content delivery networks, DRM protection, and recommendation engines.

If your goal is to create a robust, user-friendly platform that competes with the top apps, here’s a detailed cost breakdown to guide your budget planning:

The cost to build a video streaming app also depends on the location of your developers, licensing requirements, and ongoing maintenance. For startups with a limited budget, starting with an MVP and scaling over time is a smart way to enter the market.

Future Trends to Build a Video Streaming App like Paramount+

The video streaming industry is evolving at lightning speed and to build an app like Paramount+ that’s future-proof, you must stay ahead of these emerging trends. 

Understanding what's next can give your platform a competitive edge and improve user retention, monetization, and scalability.

Here are the top trends in video streaming apps you should keep on your radar:

1] Hyper-Personalization with AI & ML

To create an entertainment streaming app like Paramount+, platforms now rely on AI app development services to offer smarter content suggestions. Personalized recommendations based on user behavior boost engagement and retention.

2] Cloud-Based Infrastructure for Scalability

A cloud-based video streaming app like Paramount+ enables better scalability, performance, and global content delivery. Cloud platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure also support edge computing, faster buffering, and improved data storage, crucial for global audience expansion.

3] Multi-Screen & Cross-Platform Compatibility

As viewers shift between smartphones, smart TVs, tablets, and desktops, your streaming app must offer a seamless experience across all platforms. This not only improves usability but also increases watch time and retention.

4] Immersive Streaming with AR/VR

One of the top live streaming business ideas includes incorporating AR/VR to enhance the viewing experience. From live concerts to interactive movie experiences, AR/VR is transforming how users engage with content in real time.

5] 5G-Powered Ultra-Fast Streaming

5G is revolutionizing how fast and efficiently video content is delivered. Low latency and faster data transmission allow for high-quality live streams, 4K/8K content, and minimal buffering, making it essential for anyone looking to build a video streaming app like Paramount+. 

6] Gamification & Interactive Content

Modern audiences love participation. Features like polls, quizzes, alternative endings, and watch parties are becoming standard in apps trying to create an entertainment streaming app like Paramount+. This boosts session time and community engagement.

By embracing these innovations, you won’t just develop a video streaming app like Paramount+, you’ll lead the future of entertainment. Keep these trends in mind, and blend them with your unique vision to stand out in the crowded OTT market.

Mistakes to Avoid to Create an App Like Paramount+

If you want to create an app like Paramount+ that competes with today’s OTT giants, avoiding common development pitfalls is just as important as implementing advanced features. 

Here are the biggest challenges of video streaming apps to watch out for:

Skipping DRM Implementation: Not using DRM for streaming apps like Paramount+ can lead to content piracy and legal consequences. Securing your content is crucial for long-term sustainability.

• Neglecting Scalability from Day One: Many businesses make an app like Paramount+ without preparing for future traffic spikes. A non-scalable backend architecture can result in crashes and downtime.
• Ignoring Cross-Platform Optimization: To compete with the best video streaming apps, ensure consistent performance across all devices, including mobile, desktop, and smart TVs.
• Poor Content Delivery Network (CDN) Strategy: A reliable CDN reduces buffering and ensures smooth playback. Overlooking this is one of the common challenges while developing an app like Paramount+.
• Weak Onboarding and User Experience: A confusing or lengthy sign-up process may turn users away. A clean, intuitive interface can significantly improve retention.
• Lack of Performance Testing: Skipping pre-launch testing means risking real-time bugs and crashes. Rigorous QA helps deliver a polished, user-ready product.

Avoiding these mistakes early on can save time, budget, and reputation. If you want to build a scalable, user-centric platform that rivals Paramount+, stay proactive and informed throughout the development cycle.

Monetization Models to Develop an Video Streaming App Like Paramount+

When you build an app like Paramount+, choosing the right monetization model is crucial to generating consistent revenue. 

No matter you're targeting mass audiences or niche subscribers, here are proven ways to monetize a video streaming app:

A] Subscription-Based Model (SVOD)

This is the most popular model used by platforms like Paramount+. Users pay a monthly or yearly fee for unlimited access to content. If you make an app like Paramount+, this model ensures recurring revenue and predictable growth.

B] Ad-Supported Model (AVOD)

Free content with ads is a great way to attract a large user base. Ads can be shown before, during, or after videos. While this model offers free access, it generates income through brand promotions and third-party ads.

C] Transactional Video on Demand (TVOD)

Here, users pay per view, perfect for exclusive movies, events, or live content. This model is ideal when offering premium or one-time releases within your app.

D] Freemium Model

Offer basic content for free and charge users for access to premium features, HD content, or early releases. This approach is ideal for gaining initial users while gradually nudging them toward paid options.

E] Hybrid Model

Combine subscription and ads, just like many top OTT platforms. This allows flexibility and caters to a wider audience, those who want to watch for free and those who prefer an ad-free experience.

By picking the right monetization strategies or a mix of them, you can monetize your app effectively while keeping your users satisfied and engaged.

Why Choose JPLoft for Your Streaming App Vision?

Looking to build a streaming platform like Paramount+? JPLoft is a trusted video streaming app development company known for crafting secure, scalable, and immersive OTT experiences.

We specialize in creating custom apps that support high-quality video delivery, smart recommendations, multi-device compatibility, and monetization features like subscriptions or ads.

From concept to launch and beyond, our team takes care of every technical detail, UI/UX design, backend integration, DRM setup, video CDN configuration, and real-time analytics.

Whether you're targeting entertainment, education, sports, or niche content, we tailor the app to match your vision and user expectations. We ensure that your platform stands out in a highly competitive market.

Final Wrap-Up

As the demand for OTT platforms continues to skyrocket, developing a video streaming app like Paramount+ presents a massive opportunity for growth and revenue. With the right monetization strategies, standout features, and expert tech execution, your platform can thrive in this dynamic space. 

From basic content delivery to advanced streaming and AI-powered recommendations, there’s endless potential to engage and retain users. If you're ready to explore the market and tap into this booming sector, now is the perfect time to start.

Reach out to a trusted app development company and take the first step towards building your own streaming empire.