Building an app no longer requires a website. While many brands start with a web presence before expanding to mobile, it’s now completely possible to create and launch a standalone app that exists independently.
Thanks to no-code app builder platforms like AppMySite, individuals and businesses can now build professional apps from scratch—without coding, without a website, and without hiring developers.
In this 2025 guide, you’ll learn how to create an app without a website, step by step. We’ll also explore why standalone apps are becoming more common and how to market your app-only business effectively.
Apps vs websites: what the data says
There are over 1 billion websites online today. But while websites remain valuable for visibility and SEO, consumer behavior has shifted dramatically toward mobile.
According to Comscore and Forbes data, users spend 90% of their mobile time on apps and only 10% on mobile websites. Mobile apps also convert 157% better than mobile web pages.
This shift is reflected across industries. Local gyms, food trucks, coaches, and influencers are building app-first businesses to create direct, personalized experiences for their users. In 2025, having an app is often enough to launch and sustain a successful online business—even without a website.
Step 1: Conduct research and define your app idea
Start by understanding your market and target audience. Research what problems your app will solve, who your ideal users are, and how your app will stand out from competitors.
Ask yourself questions like:
- What purpose will my app serve?
- Is there demand for my app’s concept?
- What are the leading apps in my niche?
- How will I monetize and grow the app?
Collect data through surveys, competitor analysis, and app store research. Define your goals and key features early to create a clear roadmap for development.
Step 2: Choose your app development method
Your choice of development approach will determine your app’s timeline, cost, and complexity. The main options include:
- Custom coding – Hire developers or build the app using frameworks. This offers full control but is expensive and slow.
- Outsourcing – Hire freelancers or agencies. Suitable for complex projects but often comes with high costs and long delivery times.
- No-code development – Use a platform like AppMySite to create and publish apps yourself, without coding or technical dependencies.
For most entrepreneurs and small businesses, no-code development is the fastest, most affordable, and most flexible route. AppMySite lets you create, customize, and publish Android and iOS apps—even without an existing website.
Step 3: Create frameworks or prototypes
Before you start designing, outline your app’s structure. This can be as simple as a sketch or as detailed as a clickable prototype.
Frameworks and wireframes help visualize your app’s flow, navigation, and key screens. They’re also useful if you plan to pitch your app idea to investors or collaborate with a small team.
Focus on mapping out:
- The main sections of your app
- How users move from one screen to another
- Where key features like search, login, and checkout will appear
Even a basic prototype can provide clarity and alignment before development begins.
Step 4: Design and develop your app
Once your concept and flow are finalized, it’s time to bring your app to life.
If you’re using AppMySite, you can design your app from scratch using intuitive, no-code tools. The platform allows you to:
- Create your app icon, splash screen, and interface design
- Customize colors, fonts, and layouts
- Add menus, tabs, and navigation elements
- Integrate features like push notifications, chat, analytics, and monetization
AppMySite’s built-in CMS makes it easy to manage and publish app content directly within the platform. You can design a professional-looking app without needing developers, plugins, or coding knowledge.
If you choose a traditional coding route, you’ll need IDEs, SDKs, and backend servers for app data management. However, this approach is much more time-intensive and costly.
Step 5: Test and launch your app
Testing ensures that your app runs smoothly and delivers a great user experience. Check for functionality, performance, loading speed, and responsiveness across devices and screen sizes.
Here’s how to approach testing:
- Conduct internal testing to identify bugs and usability issues
- Use beta testers for real-world feedback
- Fix any technical or design issues before launch
Once testing is complete, you can publish your app to the Google Play Store and Apple App Store directly through AppMySite. Optimize your app listings with a clear title, compelling description, and screenshots to maximize visibility and downloads.
How to promote an app-only business
When you don’t have a website, marketing becomes even more important. You’ll need to drive traffic directly to your app listings and create awareness across digital channels.
Here are a few proven strategies:
- App Store Optimization (ASO): Optimize your app’s title, keywords, and visuals to increase discoverability in app stores. Encourage users to leave ratings and reviews for credibility.
- Social media marketing: Build a community on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and TikTok. Use reels, ads, and influencer collaborations to drive installs.
- Content marketing: Publish blogs, podcasts, or YouTube videos that connect to your app’s theme. Add download links to every piece of content.
- Email marketing: Collect leads via in-app forms or social campaigns and send updates, newsletters, and special offers to subscribers.
- PR and partnerships: Partner with other apps or businesses in related niches. Feature your app in tech publications, startup listings, or healthcare, fitness, or lifestyle media outlets—depending on your category.
These efforts will help you build recognition, increase downloads, and attract loyal users even without a dedicated website.
Read: Popular mobile app marketing techniques to grow your app
FAQs
Can I build an app without having a website?
Yes. Platforms like AppMySite allow you to build standalone mobile apps from scratch, with or without a website. You can fully design, customize, and publish your app independently.
Do I need coding skills to build an app?
No. With no-code tools like AppMySite, you can create professional Android and iOS apps without any programming knowledge. The interface is visual, intuitive, and beginner-friendly.
Can I run a business entirely through an app?
Absolutely. Many businesses now operate entirely through apps—especially in retail, fitness, education, and entertainment. You can sell products, book appointments, or deliver services directly through your app.
Which is better for my business: a website or an app?
Both serve different purposes. Websites improve discoverability through search, while apps deliver engagement and retention. However, apps are now the preferred medium for customer interaction and conversions.
How much does it cost to create an app without a website?
Custom-coded apps can cost tens of thousands of dollars. AppMySite offers subscription plans that are far more affordable and scale with your business, letting you build and publish your app quickly.