Imagine having a sportsbook right in your pocket—where you can place real-time bets, track live scores, and cash out instantly with just a few taps.

That’s the excitement and convenience that apps like Betway deliver, making them a dominant force in the global sports betting industry.

With the online sports betting market projected to hit $146.36 billion by 2032, developing a sports betting app is no longer just a bold idea—it’s a highly profitable business opportunity.

However, replicating Betway’s success isn’t just about building a basic betting app. It requires a powerful combination of cutting-edge technology, seamless user experience, real-time data accuracy, and strict adherence to gaming regulations.

Whether you’re a startup looking to enter the market or an established business aiming to expand, understanding the key features, challenges, and best practices is crucial.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to building a successful sports betting app like Betway—from core functionalities to monetization strategies. Let’s dive into the ultimate playbook for creating a winning sports betting platform.

What Is Betway?

Betway is a top-tier name in the online gambling industry. It offers a comprehensive platform for sports betting, casino gaming, and esports wagering. Launched in 2006, it quickly became one of the most trusted and widely recognized betting platforms in the UK and beyond.

This app provides bettors with diverse betting opportunities across popular sports like football, basketball, cricket, and tennis. Additionally, it covers niche markets that many platforms overlook, including darts and esports.

One of Betway’s standout features is its live betting section. This allows users to place real-time wagers on ongoing matches while watching the action unfold. With the option to cash out mid-play or ride their bets to the end, users enjoy an immersive and dynamic betting experience—all from their mobile devices.

Thanks to its seamless user experience and extensive betting options, Betway has become the go-to choice for millions of bettors worldwide. Its massive success has inspired many startups to collaborate with mobile app development companies in the UK to create their own sports betting platforms modeled after Betway.

What Makes Betway a Leading Sports Betting App?

Betway is one of the top fantasy sports betting apps globally, renowned for its user-friendly experience and lucrative rewards. The company reported an impressive revenue of $1.7 billion in 2024, solidifying its position as a leader in the industry. This massive success is attributed to several key features that set Betway apart from the competition.

1. User-Friendly Interface & Seamless Navigation

A smooth, intuitive interface plays a major role in Betway’s popularity. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a beginner, the app ensures a hassle-free experience with well-categorized bets, easy-to-use bet slips, and fast navigation between sections.

For any sports betting app to succeed, quick access and a streamlined UI are essential. If your app has a complex structure, partnering with a UI/UX design agency can help enhance user experience.

2. Diverse Betting Markets

Betway offers hundreds of betting options across a wide range of sports, including football, cricket, basketball, tennis, horse racing, and esports. This variety attracts users and keeps them engaged.

For startups looking to build a sports betting app, integrating multiple betting markets is crucial for user retention and growth.

3. Live Betting & Real-Time Data

Betway’s live betting feature allows users to place wagers during ongoing games. With real-time updates on odds, scores, and stats, bettors can make informed decisions instantly.

Live data integration is a game-changer in sports betting app development, as it enhances user engagement and boosts retention rates.

4. Robust Security & Licensing Compliance

Security is a top priority for Betway. The app holds multiple gaming licenses and uses advanced encryption to protect user data and transactions.

To build trust and credibility, a sports betting app must implement security measures such as two-factor authentication (2FA), KYC verification, and encrypted payments. Before choosing a sports betting app development company, ensuring compliance with industry security standards is essential.

5. Multiple Payment Options & Fast Withdrawals

Betway supports a variety of payment methods, including credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers, ensuring smooth transactions.

What sets Betway apart is its rapid withdrawal processing, which enhances customer satisfaction. Startups entering the sports betting industry must prioritize fast and secure transactions to stay competitive.

By focusing on these core features, Betway has established itself as a dominant player in the sports betting market. If you’re planning to develop a similar app, incorporating these elements is key to achieving success.

6. Bonuses, Promotions, and Loyalty Programs

One of the key factors behind Betway’s massive popularity is its generous bonuses, free bets, and ongoing promotions. The platform rewards frequent users with cashback offers, VIP perks, and exclusive deals, encouraging long-term engagement.

For startups and enterprises looking to develop a betting app, implementing a loyalty program can significantly enhance user retention and brand loyalty.

7. Advanced Analytics and Betting Insights

Betway goes beyond basic betting by offering detailed insights, betting tips, and predictive analysis to help users refine their strategies. The app provides match histories, expert opinions, and real-time analytics, enabling bettors to make data-driven decisions.

This data-driven approach aligns with modern sports app development trends, where AI-powered analytics and real-time insights play a crucial role in improving user engagement and experience.

By incorporating these features, Betway has set a benchmark in the sports betting industry, making it an ideal model for businesses looking to enter the market.

Understanding the Business Model of Betway App: How Does a Sports Betting App Make Money?

Betway’s business model thrives on multiple revenue streams, ensuring both profitability and sustained user engagement. This diversified approach serves as a blueprint for entrepreneurs aiming to build highly profitable sports betting apps. Below, we break down Betway’s business model and key monetization strategies.

1. Revenue Through Betting Margins

At the core of Betway’s earnings is its betting margin strategy, which involves setting odds slightly in favor of the house. This margin guarantees that the platform remains profitable regardless of individual wins or losses.

For example, even if bettors frequently win, Betway earns through the spread between actual probabilities and offered odds, ensuring sustainable revenue. This is a standard practice among fantasy sports app development companies, enabling long-term profitability.

2. Commissions and Service Fees

Betway charges a commission on winning bets, ensuring a steady income stream even when users win. Additionally, service fees on deposits or withdrawals from certain payment methods contribute to revenue.

For startups offering free betting apps, charging a commission on winnings can be a sustainable business model.

3. Subscription and Premium Plans

While Betway offers free betting options, it also runs on a freemium model, providing premium features such as:

• Exclusive betting insights
• VIP access to enhanced odds
• Special promotions and deals

This recurring revenue model boosts customer lifetime value (CLTV) and ensures continuous cash flow—making it a go-to strategy for betting software development companies.

4. Advertising and Sponsorship Deals

Betway generates significant revenue from advertising and brand sponsorships. Key monetization avenues include:

• In-app promotions and banner ads
• Sponsored notifications and pop-ups
• Brand partnerships with sports leagues and teams

For new sports betting startups, selling ad space and forming brand affiliations can create a passive revenue stream.

5. Data Monetization and Insights

Betway collects extensive user data, which is valuable to third-party clients such as:

• Sports organizations (for market insights)
• Advertisers (for targeted campaigns)
• Research firms (for industry analysis)

By offering anonymized betting trends, user behavior patterns, and market data, Betway adds another profitable revenue stream—an increasingly popular approach in betting software development.

6. In-App Purchases and Microtransactions

Betway also leverages in-app purchases, allowing users to buy:

• Exclusive betting tips
• Advanced analytics and statistics
• Virtual currency for fantasy-style contests

For businesses exploring how betting apps make money, microtransactions help boost average revenue per user (ARPU) without requiring additional bets.

Key Steps to Develop a Sports Betting App Like Betway

Creating a successful sports betting app like Betway requires a well-planned technical and business strategy. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you build and launch a profitable betting platform.

1. Conduct Thorough Market Research and Identify Your USPs

Before starting development, it’s crucial to analyze the sports betting market, understand industry trends, and identify your Unique Selling Propositions (USPs).

Key Research Points:

✅ Competitor Analysis – Study industry leaders like DraftKings, FanDuel, and Betway to learn what features and UX elements attract users.
✅ Market Trends – Identify emerging betting trends such as live betting, cryptocurrency payments, or AI-driven odds predictions.
✅ Legal Compliance – Research regional laws and licensing requirements for online gambling in your target markets.
✅ User Preferences – Determine what bettors value most, such as fast payouts, competitive odds, or unique betting options.

A strong USP—like better odds, innovative betting types, or AI-powered betting insights—will help differentiate your app in a competitive industry.

2. Define the Core Features of Your App

Your app’s success depends on having a well-structured feature set that enhances the user experience and ensures seamless functionality.

Must-Have Features:

✅ User Registration & KYC Verification – Secure onboarding with ID verification to comply with gambling regulations.
✅ Betting Dashboard – A user-friendly interface to place bets, view odds, and track live bets.
✅ Multiple Betting Options – Support for pre-match betting, live betting, parlay bets, and fantasy sports contests.
✅ Secure Payment Gateways – Integration with credit/debit cards, e-wallets, crypto, and bank transfers.
✅ Live Streaming & Match Updates – Real-time sports updates, in-app streaming, and score tracking.
✅ Bonuses, Promotions, & Loyalty Programs – Offers like free bets, cashback, and VIP tiers to retain users.
✅ AI-Driven Betting Insights – Provide data analytics, match predictions, and personalized recommendations.
✅ Responsible Gambling Features – Allow users to set betting limits, self-exclusion, and reality checks.

To ensure a scalable and future-ready app, consider hiring an experienced sports betting app development company that understands regulatory compliance and real-time gaming technologies.

Key Steps to Develop a Sports Betting App Like Betway (Continued)

3. Integrate Advanced Features for a Competitive Edge

While core features form the foundation of your betting app, advanced features can significantly enhance user engagement and retention.

Essential Advanced Features:

✅ AI-Powered Betting Tips & Predictions – Use machine learning algorithms to provide users with personalized betting insights and recommendations.
✅ Live Match Streaming – Offer real-time sports streaming within the app to keep users engaged.
✅ Multi-Language & Multi-Currency Support – Expand your market reach by integrating global language and currency options.
✅ Push Notifications & Alerts – Notify users about odds changes, match results, and promotional offers.
✅ Social Media Integration – Allow users to share bets, compete with friends, and engage in social betting challenges.

4. Choose the Right Development Approach

Your development approach will determine cost, time, and performance. You have three options:

• Native App Development (iOS & Android)
  ✅ Offers the best performance, security, and UX
  ❌ Requires separate development for Android and iOS, increasing cost & time
• Cross-Platform Development (Flutter, React Native)
  ✅ Faster and more cost-effective, using a single codebase
  ❌ Slightly less optimized than native apps
• Progressive Web Apps (PWA)
  ✅ Runs on any browser and doesn’t require installation
  ❌ Limited access to device features like GPS, notifications, or biometrics

💡 If budget constraints are an issue, consider hiring a cross-platform app development company to ensure fast market entry.

5. Partner with an Experienced Sports Betting App Development Company

Choosing the right betting software development company is crucial for long-term success.

What to Look for in a Development Partner:

✔ Proven experience in sports betting app development
✔ Strong portfolio with past gambling projects
✔ Expertise in API integrations for live odds, payment gateways, and security protocols
✔ Knowledge of gambling laws & compliance for different regions

6. Test the Beta Version and Gather Feedback

Before the official launch, conduct a beta release to test your app with real users.

✅ Fix bugs and optimize performance
✅ Collect user feedback and make improvements
✅ Ensure seamless functionality across devices and platforms

7. Launch and Market Your App

After refining the app, launch it on Google Play Store, Apple App Store, and web platforms.

Effective Marketing Strategies:

🚀 App Store Optimization (ASO) – Optimize app title, keywords, and descriptions for higher search rankings
📣 Social Media & Influencer Marketing – Engage sports influencers to promote the app
🎯 Paid Ads & PPC Campaigns – Run targeted Google, Facebook, and Instagram ads
💌 Referral & Loyalty Programs – Reward users for inviting friends and frequent betting

With the right strategy and execution, your sports betting app can achieve high user engagement and profitability, just like Betway. 🚀

What is the Cost to Develop a Sports Betting App Like Betway?

The cost of developing a sports betting app can range between $50,000 to $300,000 or more, depending on various factors.

Key Cost Factors:

✅ App Complexity & Features – More advanced features like live streaming, AI predictions, and real-time betting increase costs.
✅ Platform (iOS, Android, Web) – Native apps are costlier than cross-platform solutions.
✅ UI/UX Design – A visually appealing custom design costs more than a basic template-based UI.
✅ Development Team Location – Hiring developers in the USA or Europe is more expensive than outsourcing to India or Eastern Europe.

Estimated Cost Breakdown:

💡 Want an accurate cost estimate? It’s best to consult a sports betting app development company based on your specific requirements.

Final Thoughts

Building a sports betting app like Betway requires a strategic approach – from market research and feature development to a smooth UI and effective marketing.

To stand out in this competitive industry, your app must offer:
✅ Unique features like AI-powered insights, live streaming, and fast payouts
✅ Seamless user experience across all platforms
✅ Compliance with gambling laws in different regions

Partnering with an experienced sports betting software development company like RipenApps ensures your app is built for scalability, security, and success. 🚀