From Idea to Launch: Develop an App like Crunchyroll

Key Takeaways

• To Develop an App like Crunchyroll, you should understand your target audience, analyze competitors and Funimation, and identify unique gaps to make your app stand out.

• Plan core features such as streaming quality, multi-language support, and payment options while selecting a monetization model like SVOD or freemium.

• The cost to build an app depends on features, platform choice, and complexity. On average, development can range between $20,000 to $80,000, including design, backend, and deployment.

• Emerging trends in video streaming apps like AI personalization, AR/VR experiences, and blockchain integration are reshaping user engagement, making anime streaming smarter and more interactive.

• Key video streaming app development challenges include ensuring seamless playback, managing server load, handling licensing, and providing robust security, all crucial for maintaining user trust and satisfaction.

• From design to deployment, JPLoft provides complete OTT app development solutions to help you launch a high-quality, Crunchyroll-style streaming platform with confidence.

Imagine a world where anime lovers can stream their favorite shows anytime, anywhere, that’s the magic Crunchyroll created. It captures excitement, community, and a seamless viewing experience.

But the main question is, how to develop an app like Crunchyroll? You can build one by combining advanced streaming technology, engaging UI/UX, and a vast anime content library to deliver a truly immersive experience.

Nowadays, anime streaming isn’t just entertainment; it’s a booming business opportunity. With millions of passionate fans and growing global demand, creating an anime streaming app for startups has become the next big trend in the OTT industry. 

From exclusive content and interactive features to smooth playback, building a Crunchyroll-style app requires smart planning, strong tech, and a clear vision. Let’s explore how you can turn this dream into reality.

What is the Crunchyroll App: A Quick Overview

If you’re planning to develop a video streaming app, the first question that comes to mind is “What is the Crunchyroll app, isn’t it?”

Well, picture this: millions of anime lovers across the globe tuning in to watch their favorite shows, from “Naruto” to “Attack on Titan” anytime, anywhere. That’s the power of Crunchyroll.

Crunchyroll is more than just an anime streaming platform, it’s a complete entertainment hub built for fans by fans. It offers a massive library of anime, manga, and even Asian dramas, all accessible through smooth streaming, subtitle options, and personalized recommendations.

What makes Crunchyroll stand out is how it blends content, community, and technology. Through advanced OTT app development, it delivers high-quality video streaming, interactive features, and seamless cross-device compatibility, ensuring users stay connected to their favorite shows without interruption.

In essence, a video streaming app like Crunchyroll isn’t just about content delivery, it’s about creating an immersive world where storytelling meets technology, allowing users to experience anime the way it was meant to be, emotionally, visually, and globally.

Why Build an App Like Crunchyroll?

Ever wondered why so many entrepreneurs and startups are eager to develop a video streaming app like Crunchyroll? The answer lies in the booming popularity of anime and the massive growth of OTT entertainment platforms worldwide. 

Here’s why creating your own anime streaming app can be a smart business move:

• Rising Global Demand for Anime Content: The anime industry is expanding rapidly, with millions of fans looking for high-quality streaming options. When you make an app like Crunchyroll, you tap into a passionate global community that’s constantly growing.

• A Profitable OTT Market: The OTT industry continues to dominate digital entertainment. Building an OTT app like Crunchyroll allows you to monetize through subscriptions, ads, or exclusive content, making it a great long-term investment.

• Freedom to Customize and Innovate: When you make a custom video streaming app like Crunchyroll, you can design unique features, interfaces, and experiences that reflect your brand vision and attract niche audiences.

• Faster Market Entry for Startups: You don’t need to be a big brand to start an online video streaming business. With the right development partner and technology, startups can quickly build, launch, and scale their anime streaming apps.

• A Loyal and Engaged Audience Base: Anime fans aren’t just viewers, they’re communities. A well-designed app like Crunchyroll encourages engagement through fan discussions, ratings, and watchlists, helping your platform grow organically.

In short, if you’re ready to build a video streaming app like Crunchyroll, you’re stepping into a market full of opportunities, creativity, and loyal fandoms waiting for the next big streaming platform.

Must-Have Features of an App Like Crunchyroll

When you set out to develop a video streaming app like Crunchyroll, one of the most crucial stages is deciding what features to include. “Features” are the soul of any streaming platform; they define how users interact, explore, and fall in love with your app.

Think of Crunchyroll: from personalized anime recommendations to high-quality streaming, every detail feels crafted for true fans. If you want to make a custom video streaming app like Crunchyroll, you’ll need to include the right mix of functionality and user experience.

Here’s a breakdown of the most essential video streaming app features that power an anime streaming platform like Crunchyroll:

When building your platform, remember, these features are not just technical add-ons; they shape your users’ overall viewing experience.

So whether you’re aiming to make an app like Crunchyroll or build your own OTT app like Crunchyroll, focusing on the right features will help you craft a streaming service that fans can’t stop watching.

How to Develop an App Like Crunchyroll – Step-by-Step Process

So, you’ve decided to enter the anime world and share stories that captivate audiences like Crunchyroll does, but the question is, how to develop an app like Crunchyroll?

Well, it’s not just about coding or streaming; it’s about crafting an experience where anime fans feel at home. Whether you want to develop an app for your startup, understanding each step of the process is essential.

Here’s a quick glance at the major development stages:

• Step 1: Market Research & Idea Validation

• Step 2: Defining Features & Business Model

• Step 3: Designing the UI/UX

• Step 4: Choosing the Right Tech Stack

• Step 5: Development & Integration

• Step 6: Testing & Quality Assurance

• Step 7: App Launch & Marketing

• Step 8: Post-Launch Maintenance

Now, let’s explore each step in detail:

Step 1: Market Research & Idea Validation

Before you start coding, you need a clear vision. Conducting proper market research helps you understand what anime lovers expect from a streaming platform. Study existing best video streaming apps like Netflix, Disney+, and HBO Max to learn what makes them successful.

Identify your target audience: are you focusing on global anime fans, or niche communities that love specific genres like Shonen or Slice of Life? Analyze competitors like Crunchyroll, Funimation, and HiDive to find gaps you can fill.

If you’re a startup looking for streaming app development, this is where you decide your unique edge, such as fan interaction, offline viewing, or exclusive licensed content.

Step 2: Defining Features & Business Model

Once your idea is validated, the next step is defining what your app will offer. To build an app like Crunchyroll, you must determine your core app features such as login, content library, subtitles, and payment integration.

Your business model defines how you’ll earn revenue and sustain long-term growth. Common monetization approaches for an OTT app like Crunchyroll include subscription-based models (SVOD), where users pay monthly or annually for unlimited streaming.

You can also explore ad-supported models (AVOD), where users watch content for free but with ads, or go with a freemium model that offers basic content for free while premium shows stay behind a paywall.

Step 3: Designing the UI/UX

Design is the bridge between technology and user emotion. When you design a video streaming app, remember that anime fans value aesthetics and simplicity. Use bright visuals, anime-inspired colors, and intuitive layouts.

A good UI/UX design service ensures users can easily find their favorite shows without frustration. Include modern animations, dark/light themes, and easy navigation.

If you create a video streaming app like Crunchyroll, keep in mind that design consistency improves retention. Your design should reflect your brand personality, whether it’s energetic like Shonen or calm like Studio Ghibli.

Step 4: Choosing the Right Tech Stack

Now comes the technical backbone. The video streaming app tech stack determines your app’s speed, scalability, and overall performance. For an anime streaming app for startups, selecting the right combination of frameworks and tools can save both time and development costs.

For the frontend, technologies like React Native or Flutter are ideal for creating smooth, cross-platform experiences. On the backend, Node.js, Django, or Laravel offer excellent scalability and performance. 

Databases such as MongoDB or MySQL ensure efficient data management, while cloud platforms like AWS or Google Cloud provide secure and flexible storage options. 

For streaming, protocols like HLS and RTMP deliver stable video playback, and payment gateways such as Stripe, Razorpay, or PayPal enable seamless transactions.

Step 5: Development & Integration

Here’s where the magic happens: your idea starts turning into reality. The development phase involves coding your front-end and back-end, integrating APIs, and implementing the features discussed earlier.

To develop an app like Crunchyroll, ensure your team builds modules for user authentication, video playback, recommendations, and admin control.

Integrating community features like fan discussions or watch parties can also make your app stand out. Security should also be a top priority. Focus on video streaming app security by adding encryption, watermarking, and secure payment gateways.

Step 6: Testing & Quality Assurance

Before launching, app testing everything thoroughly. Testing ensures your anime streaming platform runs smoothly without technical glitches.

Your QA team should test across multiple devices, operating systems, and network speeds. Look for issues like buffering, subtitle errors, or login failures.

For startups focused on streaming app development, user testing is vital. Collect feedback from early users or anime communities; they’ll tell you what works and what doesn’t.

By fixing bugs early, you ensure your users get a polished experience when you build an app like Crunchyroll.

Step 7: App Launch & Marketing

Finally, it’s showtime! Once your app is fully tested and ready, it’s time to submit an iOS app to the App Store and publish an app to the Google Play Store for users to download. But remember, launching is just the beginning; marketing is what truly drives visibility.

Promote your platform on anime forums, social media, and YouTube channels. Collaborate with anime influencers or fan pages to create buzz and attract your target audience.

To develop a video streaming app like Crunchyroll successfully, focus on building a loyal community. Encourage users to share reviews, rate episodes, and stay engaged, because an active fanbase turns your app into a thriving anime hub.

Step 8: Post-Launch Maintenance

The journey doesn’t end after launch; it’s where long-term success begins. Continuous updates, bug fixes, and performance optimization are crucial to keeping your users satisfied.

Investing in a professional app maintenance service ensures your platform remains secure, up-to-date, and compatible with new devices and OS versions. Regularly introduce fresh content, improve streaming quality, and monitor user feedback to enhance overall experience.

In short, post-launch care is what transforms a good anime streaming app into a great one that stands the test of time.

Every anime streaming platform starts with a dream: to connect fans with the stories they love. From design and functionality to app development and marketing, every step plays a part in crafting a platform users trust and love. 

So, whether you plan to make an app like Crunchyroll, remember, a great streaming app isn’t built overnight; it’s built with passion, innovation, and a clear vision.

Tech Stack for Developing an App Like Crunchyroll

When you set out to make an app like Crunchyroll, your technology choices matter as much as your idea. The right app tech stack ensures smooth performance, scalability, and high-quality streaming, all of which are essential for user satisfaction. 

For an anime streaming app for startups, choosing modern frameworks and reliable tools can also help reduce development time and cost. Here’s a detailed breakdown of a recommended tech stack for an OTT app like Crunchyroll:

Selecting the right tech stack allows you to build a platform that’s fast, secure, and ready to handle thousands of simultaneous streams. 

Whether you’re planning to create an app like Crunchyroll or scale an existing OTT platform, a solid tech foundation ensures long-term stability and success.

Cost to Develop a Video Streaming App Like Crunchyroll

One of the most common questions that startups ask is “How much does it cost to build a video streaming app like Crunchyroll?” 

Well, the answer depends on your app’s complexity, features, and platforms. On average, the cost to build a video streaming app ranges between $20,000 and $80,000.

This range includes everything, from UI/UX design and backend development to integrations, testing, and post-launch support. The more advanced features like offline downloads, AI-based recommendations, and multi-language streaming you include, the higher the cost will go.

Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Overall, the total cost and timeline depend on the features, team size, and technology used. If you plan to develop a video streaming app like Crunchyroll, partnering with a skilled team ensures smooth development, faster delivery, and a scalable platform ready to engage anime lovers worldwide.

Challenges in Developing a Video Streaming App Like Crunchyroll

When planning to develop an app like Crunchyroll, one common question that arises is, “What are the biggest video streaming app development challenges, and how can they be overcome?”

Building a seamless anime streaming experience requires a balance between technology, design, and scalability. 

Here are some of the key challenges you’ll face:

• Ensuring Smooth Streaming Performance: Lag or buffering can kill user engagement. One of the biggest app development challenges is maintaining high-quality playback even under low internet speeds. To overcome this, developers must use adaptive bitrate streaming (ABS), robust CDNs, and compression techniques that balance quality and performance.

• Managing Licensing and Content Rights: To create a video streaming app like Crunchyroll, acquiring legal rights to stream anime and other content is essential. Negotiating with studios, distributors, and publishers can be time-consuming and expensive, but it’s critical for brand credibility and avoiding copyright issues.

• Handling Data Storage and Scalability: As your user base grows, so does your need for scalable infrastructure. Using cloud platforms like AWS or Google Cloud helps manage huge content libraries and millions of concurrent streams efficiently, an essential aspect of app development.

• App Security and Data Protection: Security threats, piracy, and data breaches can harm both your platform and users. Addressing app security through encryption, token-based authentication, and DRM (Digital Rights Management) ensures safe and protected streaming.

• User Retention and Engagement: Even if you build an app like Crunchyroll, retaining users long-term requires continuous updates, recommendations, and engagement tools. Integrating watchlists, reviews, and interactive community features keeps viewers connected.

In short, overcoming these challenges with the right tech stack and expert development support transforms an ordinary anime streaming platform into a global success story.

Future Trends to Create an App Like Crunchyroll

The video streaming industry is entering a transformative phase, driven by rapid technological advancements and changing user preferences. If you’re planning to develop a video streaming app like Crunchyroll, understanding these upcoming trends in video streaming apps is crucial to staying competitive and future-ready. 

These innovations not only enhance viewer experience but also help build a loyal, engaged anime community that keeps returning for more.

► AI-Powered Personalization

AI in video streaming apps is becoming the heart of user engagement. Integrating it effectively requires assistance from the right AI development company. 

AI algorithms analyze viewing patterns, genre preferences, and even watch time to recommend hyper-personalized anime content, similar to Crunchyroll’s “For You” and “Continue Watching” sections.

By learning user habits, AI delivers highly relevant recommendations that boost retention, increase streaming hours, and enhance overall user satisfaction.

► Cloud-Based Streaming Solutions

Cloud technology is redefining content delivery for global audiences. OTT platforms like Crunchyroll are now adopting cloud-based streaming infrastructure to ensure high-definition playback without buffering, even during peak hours. 

Cloud storage enables easy content scalability, faster uploads, and efficient content management. This approach minimizes downtime, reduces server load, and allows developers to roll out updates smoothly across regions, a key advantage in today’s competitive streaming ecosystem.

► Interactive and Social Viewing

Streaming is no longer a solo activity. Platforms are evolving to include interactive and social viewing experiences that bring fans together. Features like live chats during anime premieres, group watch parties, and fan community forums are driving higher engagement. 

Users can share reactions, participate in polls, or discuss plot twists in real time, turning passive watching into a shared, fun experience.

► Integration of AR/VR Experiences

The rise of immersive technologies like Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) is transforming how audiences experience entertainment. With the help of AR/VR app development services, users can now step inside their favorite anime worlds using VR goggles or interact with beloved characters through AR-based features.

These innovations are making anime streaming more experiential and engaging, allowing fans to virtually attend anime conventions, explore 3D environments, or enjoy episodes in a simulated theater setting, taking storytelling to an entirely new dimension.

► Blockchain & NFT Integration

The integration of blockchain technology ensures content authenticity and transparent royalty distribution for creators. Meanwhile, NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) are opening new monetization opportunities, allowing fans to buy exclusive anime art, limited-edition clips, or collectible merchandise tied to their favorite shows. 

These innovations not only empower creators but also strengthen the bond between the platform and its fanbase through unique ownership experiences.

Adopting these future trends will help you build a cutting-edge, engaging, and secure platform. By combining AI-driven recommendations, immersive AR/VR content, and blockchain-backed ownership, you can create an app like Crunchyroll that goes beyond streaming, offering a complete digital anime ecosystem.

Monetization Models for Apps Like Crunchyroll

When you plan to monetize a video streaming app, selecting the right business model is crucial for sustaining growth and keeping your audience engaged. Different monetization strategies can help you cater to various user types, from casual viewers to die-hard anime fans. 

Below are the most effective ways to generate consistent revenue while maintaining user satisfaction:

1. Subscription-Based Model (SVOD)

This is the backbone of most anime streaming platforms. In this model, users pay a recurring monthly or annual fee for unlimited access to premium content. It ensures predictable revenue and helps build a strong, loyal customer base. 

For instance, if you plan to develop an app like Crunchyroll, a subscription model allows you to offer ad-free viewing, HD streaming, and exclusive shows that keep users coming back for more. 

2. Ad-Supported Model (AVOD)

Want to reach a larger audience without forcing them to pay upfront? The ad-supported model is the perfect fit. Users can enjoy free anime episodes, while your platform earns revenue from video ads, banners, and sponsorships. 

It’s a great strategy for startups entering the development journey, as it increases visibility while keeping the service accessible.

3. Freemium Model

This model blends the best of both worlds, free and paid content. Offer users access to a limited content library for free, while reserving premium anime, simulcasts, or early releases for paying members. 

It’s one of the smartest strategies to build an app like Crunchyroll, as it lets users explore your app risk-free before committing to a subscription. Once users get invested, they’re more likely to upgrade to premium plans, increasing conversions over time.

4. Pay-Per-View Model (TVOD)

Perfect for special anime events, movie premieres, or exclusive episodes. In this model, viewers pay a one-time fee to watch a specific title or event, similar to how movie rentals work. It’s particularly effective for rare or limited-edition content, giving fans the flexibility to pay only for what they want. 

This approach can add an extra income stream alongside regular subscriptions, especially during high-demand anime releases.

5. Partnership & Affiliate Marketing

Beyond direct streaming revenue, partnerships open new doors. Collaborate with anime merchandise brands, gaming companies, or streaming hardware providers. By promoting partner products or affiliate links within your app, you earn commissions for every sale. 

This model not only boosts profits but also strengthens your brand identity in the broader anime ecosystem. Many OTT apps like Crunchyroll are leveraging affiliate marketing to diversify income sources and engage fans in a complete entertainment experience.

Choosing the right mix of monetization strategies ensures your app stays competitive and profitable. Whether you opt for subscriptions, ads, or creative partnerships, the key to monetizing successfully lies in understanding your audience’s preferences and balancing value with experience.

Let JPLoft Bring Your Anime Streaming Vision to Life

Building a powerful anime or video streaming platform takes more than just great content, it needs the right technology, design, and expertise behind it.

That’s where JPLoft comes in. We specialize in creating high-performing, scalable, and engaging OTT platforms for global audiences. As a leading video streaming app development company, our team delivers end-to-end solutions, from UX/UI design and feature integration to post-launch support and app maintenance. 

Whether you aim to build a video streaming app like Crunchyroll or create your own anime-focused platform, we ensure seamless performance, advanced security, and a stunning user experience.

With years of expertise in building OTT platforms, JPLoft helps you stand out in the ever-growing streaming market with innovative features and monetization models tailored to your goals.

Ready to turn your idea into the next big anime streaming sensation? Connect with JPLoft today and bring your vision to life.

Final Wrap-Up

Building an anime or OTT platform is not just about coding, it’s about crafting a digital experience that resonates with millions of fans worldwide. Understanding the process of how to develop an app like Crunchyroll gives you the roadmap to success from ideation and design to deployment and monetization. 

With expert guidance from professionals, you can transform your idea into a powerful, scalable, and user-friendly streaming app that captures audiences and drives revenue. 

So, whether you’re planning to start an anime streaming platform or expand your existing business, this can be the perfect time to make it happen.