How to Build a Grocery App Like Kibsons in 2026: Cost, Features & Strategy
15 Views 10 min January 19, 2026
A Comprehensive Guide to BNPL App Development like Klarna or Tabby
Introducing Nalini, our tech-savvy content expert at Apptunix, with 8+ years of experience in technical content writing. With a knack for making complex ideas simple, she turns intricate tech concepts into engaging reads. Her work highlights emerging trends such as AI-powered applications, cross-platform development, digital transformation initiatives, and B2B technology solutions. Through her strategic storytelling, she plays a vital role in advancing Apptunix’s mission to shape the future of mobile and web experiences, enabling clients to make smarter, technology-driven decisions that accelerate growth and secure a competitive edge.
1358 Views|
10 mins |
Published On: October 7, 2025
Read Time: 10 mins |
Published: January 20, 2026
Fintech companies are evolving continuously to meet the changing needs of consumers in this digital era. One of the latest trends is Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL), which has emerged as a hot topic among customers and businesses.
Why, you may ask? – Because of three mantras – BNPL is Fast, Convenient, and Affordable! That’s exactly what consumers expect from their service providers. For Fintech businesses, it is a surefire way to generate profits and expand their user base.
Let’s check what the data states –
According to statistics, the BNPL market was valued at $87.2 billion in 2020. This figure is predicted to almost triple to $531.53 billion.
If you want to be among the top players in the Fintech market and are planning to build a BNPL app like Tabby or Klarna, we’re here to help!
Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL): An Overview
Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) is a short-term financing option that allows customers to purchase items or services and pay later, with no fees or interest. These types of loans are also called Point-of-Sales (POS) installment loans.
In simple terms, customers who cannot afford to pay the full amount upfront can purchase goods from a particular merchant using the pay-later option. Here, customers can make payments in installments without interest for a specified period.
All in all:
- Firstly, customers can simply buy products they cannot afford upfront.
- Secondly, merchants can sell their products to a huge number of customers.
- Thirdly, BNPL app providers can generate revenue from both customers and retailers.
Ultimately, BNPL is a win-win situation for customers, retailers, and BNPL app providers.
Also Read: Top 5 Fintech Apps in the Middle East and How to Build Your Own!
5 Interesting Facts About Buy Now and Pay Later
Check the following image to know the most interesting facts about buy now,pay later (BNPL):
How Does BNPL Differ from Traditional Credit Cards?
Check the following table to understand how BNPL differs from traditional credit cards:
| Factor | BNPL | Credit Card |
|---|---|---|
| Concept | Customers can purchase goods and can make the payment later in installments without any interest | A revolving line of credit where users can purchase goods and make payments on a monthly installment basis |
| Eligibility Criteria | Easy loan approval is often based on soft loans | Eligibility varies by providers and card types |
| Interest Rates | Offer interest-free EMIs for a specified period | If the total amount is not paid within the specified time, then it may incur interest on unpaid amounts |
| Credit Check | Customers with limited or no credit history can easily get approval for loans. Does not require any traditional credit check | Credit card issuers usually apply credit checks to assess the user’s creditworthiness before approval |
| Joining Fees | Generally, no joining fees | Fees may vary and could also include annual fees |
| Easy EMIs | Provide flexible repayment plans with zero interest | Purchases are converted into EMIs with interest charges |
| Repayment Flexibility | Transactions in BNPL are considered as separate installment plans to manage the budget and manage payments for purchases | Offer flexibility to customers to choose due minimum amount or full balance per month |
3 Reasons Why You Should Invest in the BNPL App Development
Following, we’ve listed some crucial reasons why you should invest in the Buy Now, Pay Later app development. Let’s check:
1. Fintech is a Booming Market
According to the latest research, the global FinTech market is expected to reach a value of USD 16,652,680 million by 2028, with a remarkable compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.9% during the forecast period. Evidently, the fintech market is booming, driven by several factors. These factors include advancements in financial technology, financial inclusion, Blockchain, AI, and so on. Thus, it’s the perfect time to invest in the Fintech mobile app development services to grow your BNPL business.
2. Huge Increase in Online Shopping
Following the pandemic, online purchasing has increased significantly in the e-commerce sector. In 2022, there were 268 million online shoppers in the United States. This number is projected to increase to almost 285 million online shoppers in 2025. It is evident that your customers are online shoppers, and to target them – you must build a BNPL app like Klarna.
3. Attractive to Users Due to Interest-Free Loans
Buyers find the BNPL appealing. Customers who use BNPL benefit from several options, including the ability to pay in installments, avoid interest and fees, and make purchases without paying the full amount at once.
The Mechanics of Developing a BNPL Solution
Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services already exist in the financial market. However, it gained traction during the COVID-19 pandemic. Especially after people become more inclined towards e-commerce or online shopping with flexible payment options. It is essential to investigate the mechanics underlying these services to understand the evolution of BNPL.
Technical Infrastructure for BNPL App Development
A robust technology infrastructure is required for BNPL app development to function effectively. Key components of this include
#1 Choosing App Platform
To develop a BNPL app, it is essential to choose a platform first – iOS, Android, or a cross-platform solution. The first two (iOS and Android) take longer and cost more. On the other hand, cross-platform solutions are more cost-effective and time-efficient.
Check the following details regarding platforms and choose the one that suits your vision:
iOS Platform for BNPL App
Here we’ve listed when to choose the iOS platform for your BNPL app development:
- It is more expensive than Android due to its stringent design and programming languages
- If planning to target customers who prefer Apple products – iOS is the best option
- If revenue models include subscription fees or in-app purchases, then the iOS user base would be best suited to go
Android Platform for BNPL App
Here we’ve listed when to choose the Android platform for your BNPL app development:
- The Android platform is less expensive than building the iOS platform because of the open-source coding languages like Kotlin or Java
- To target a larger user base, the Android platform will be the right choice
- If revenue models include ad-based revenue, then the Android user base would be best suited to go
Cross-Platform for BNPL App
Here we’ve listed when to choose the Cross-platform for your BNPL app development:
- Cross-platform is a cost-effective option if you want to run your business on different operating systems
- Requires single-base code to build both iOS and Android platforms
- Minimizes development time and cost
- The preferred option for both small and medium-sized businesses is to target both iOS and Android users.
#2 Features and Functionalities
Integrating amazing features significantly enhances an app’s overall user engagement and experience. It will help to improve conversions and ultimately boost revenue. Incorporating amazing features will benefit your buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) business growth. However, it will also increase the development cost. Following, we’ve listed some of the must-have features for BNPL application:
| BNPL Features | Details |
|---|---|
| User Registration and Verification | Self-registration forms that can be customized for both merchants and customers. Real-time verification of eligibility and creditworthiness. |
| Account Management | Allows users to check transaction history, payment methods, and balances easily. |
| Instant Credit Approval | Speeds up checkout and boosts conversion with real-time loan approval. |
| Payment Integration | Seamless checkout experience by integrating with the merchant’s payment system. |
| Split Payments | Total purchase is split into equal installments; first collected at purchase, rest at regular intervals. |
| Automatic Deductions | Auto-deducts due payments using saved card details for convenience and punctuality. |
| Reminders and Notifications | Notifies users about due dates, upcoming bills, and successful payments. |
| Repayment Schedule | Displays clear repayment plans, including dates and amounts, for better budgeting. |
| Secure Payment Gateway | Processes payments securely between customers, merchants, and BNPL providers. |
| Merchant Analysis | Provides insights like order details, pending payments, and revenue via the dashboard. |
| Cashback | Rewards users for continued usage to enhance loyalty and user retention. |
| Robust Security | Protects sensitive data and prevents fraud with encryption and security protocols. |
| Compliance | Ensures regulatory compliance and protects users from credit score impacts. |
| Credit Terms | Users repay within weeks/months or extend terms for up to two years. |
| Multiple Payment Options | Supports debit/credit cards, bank transfers, and more for flexibility. |
| Credit Score Tracking | Allows users to monitor their credit score and improve financial awareness. |
| 24/7 Customer Support | Provides real-time support via chat or phone for seamless issue resolution. |
If you want to build an app like Klarna or Tabby, ensure that you integrate features that align with your vision and business objectives. Additionally, incorporating advanced features into your BNPL app would gradually increase its overall development cost. If you still have doubts regarding the costs – then you can choose MVP Development for your BNPL app. Get in touch with Apptunix to know more!
#3 UI/ UX Design
The BNPL app interface needs to be responsive, accessible, intuitive, and user-friendly to provide a better user experience. A team of professional designers will help you develop an amazing UI/UX design for your BNPL app.
#4 Choosing the Right Tech Stack
Your Fintech BNPL app will have a solid foundation with the help of a robust tech stack. Selecting the appropriate tech stack is crucial. Here is a list of key technologies for your Fintech application. Let’s discover:
- Native: Swift, Objective C, Kotlin
- Hybrid: Flutter, React Native
- Frontend: React JS, Angular
- Backend: Node JS, .NET, Python, Java, PHP, TypeScript
Get in touch with buy now pay later Android & iOS app developers to have the right tech stack for your Fintech app.
#5 Quality Assurance and Launching
Quality assurance is the most crucial aspect of BNPL software development before launch. It is essential to employ both automated and manual testing techniques to thoroughly evaluate the security, functionality, and usability of your BNPL app. It will be beneficial to identify any errors, lagging issues, or other problems as soon as possible. Once the testing process is complete to your satisfaction, it’s time to make your BNPL app public.
Note:
If you have a clear vision and a product ready with the most critical features, one way to move forward is to build a Minimum Viable Product (MVP). You can proceed with a more thorough development process that includes improved functionality, a user-friendly interface, and other key components if you have a better understanding of your target market and other relevant factors. Discuss funding options with investors for your comprehensive Buy Now, Pay Later app development.
Looking for the best BNPL app development services at affordable prices – get in touch with Apptunix today!
7 Key Players of the BNPL Industry
The top players in the BNPL industry are shown in the image below. Check out:
1. Affirm: Founded in 2012, Affirm is based in the United States and offers a buy now, pay later service for both online and offline purchases.
2. Tabby: Founded in 2019, Tabby is a fintech startup based in Saudi Arabia that offers buy now, pay later services to customers, allowing them to split their payments and shop without incurring any interest or fees.
3. Addi: Founded in 2018, Addi is a technology company based in Bogotá, Colombia, offering banking and credit solutions to users. It also allows customers to purchase goods from both online and offline stores.
4. Afterpay: Founded in 2014, Afterpay is a fintech company based in Australia that provides buy now, pay later services to online customers.
5. ePaylater: Founded in 2015, ePaylater is a digital payment solution based in Mumbai that offers customers interest-free credit periods on their purchases.
6. CredPal: Founded in 2018, CredPal is a tech company that allows customers to purchase products online and offline in installments.
7. Klarna: Founded in 2005, Klarna is a fintech company based in Stockholm. Sweden has a mission to provide customers with convenience when shopping for items using BNPL solutions.
Unveiled – Cost to Build a BNPL App Like Tamara
Get the Best Mobile App Developers for Buy Now Pay Later App Development
Apptunix is a trusted and leading mobile app development company specializing in Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) app development. With a proven track record of delivering high-performance fintech solutions, we help businesses launch secure, scalable, and customer-centric BNPL platforms.
Our team of experienced designers, fintech experts, and developers works closely with you to build a fully customized BNPL app that aligns with your business goals and delivers seamless payment experiences to your users.
Why Choose Apptunix for BNPL App Development?
-
Fintech & BNPL Expertise
Years of experience in building innovative fintech, lending, and payment solutions. -
Custom-Built BNPL Platforms
Tailored solutions designed to match your business model, branding, and market requirements. -
Enterprise-Grade Security & Compliance
We ensure compliance with PCI-DSS, KYC/AML, GDPR, and other financial regulations. -
Advanced Credit & Risk Management
AI-driven credit scoring, fraud detection, and risk assessment to protect your business. -
Scalable & Future-Ready Architecture
Cloud-based BNPL apps built to scale as your customer base and transaction volume grow. -
Seamless Integrations
Easy integration with payment gateways, banks, eCommerce platforms, and third-party APIs. -
User-Friendly UI/UX Design
Intuitive, conversion-focused designs that enhance customer trust and engagement. -
End-to-End Development Support
From ideation and development to deployment, maintenance, and ongoing support. -
Dedicated Development Team
Work with a skilled, reliable team committed to delivering projects on time and within budget.
If you’re looking for a reliable, experienced, and innovation-driven BNPL app development partner, Apptunix is the right choice.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Q 1.What is a BNPL app and how does it work?
A BNPL (Buy Now Pay Later) app allows users to purchase products instantly and split payments into interest-free or low-interest installments. The app pays the merchant upfront, and users repay the amount over time based on the chosen EMI plan.
Q 2.How much will it cost to build a BNPL app like Tabby or Klarna?
The Buy Now and Pay Later app with basic features would take around $15,000 to $50,000. However, the cost will increase to $200,000 and beyond if AI BNPL advanced features are incorporated into the Buy Now and Pay Later app development.
Q 3.How long does it take to develop a BNPL app?
A BNPL app can take 3 to 9 months to build depending on complexity:
-
Basic MVP: 4–12 weeks
-
Full-feature product: 4–9 months
Development time increases if you include AI risk assessment, PCI-DSS compliance, or multi-currency support.
Q 4.What features are essential in a BNPL app?
Key must-have features include:
-
User onboarding & KYC verification
-
Credit scoring & risk analysis
-
EMI payment scheduling
-
In-app checkout integration
-
Wallet & UPI/card payments
-
Notifications & reminders
-
Fraud detection & spending limit control
-
Merchant dashboard and settlement system
Q 5.How do BNPL apps make money?
BNPL platforms generate revenue through:
-
Merchant commission fees
-
Late fees or processing fees
-
Interest on EMI (if applicable)
-
Interchange revenue
-
Subscription plans for merchants
-
Data analytics and credit insights services
Q 6.What are the different challenges associated with BNPL?
Following, we’ve discussed different challenges related to Buy Now and Pay Later. Let’s check:
- Neck-to-Neck Competition: In the BNPL market, businesses are competing hard with each other. To keep your business ahead in the BNPL market – businesses must offer amazing features, improved customer-centric solutions, and exceptional customer service.
- Legal Regulations: Changing legal regulations impacts the BNPL operations for startups. And they must adapt quickly to these changing requirements along with building and maintaining customer relationships and trust.
- Consumer Behavior Shifts: While BNPL companies adapt to changing financial goals and economic conditions, they also need to remain cognizant of the needs and preferences of their consumers. As customer behavior patterns change, so too could the demand for these services.
Q 7.Is developing a BNPL app legally compliant?
Yes, but it requires strict compliance. Depending on the region, BNPL apps must comply with:
-
PCI-DSS for payment security
-
KYC / AML guidelines
-
GDPR / CCPA for user data protection
-
RBI or local financial authority rules (if India)
Working with a licensed NBFC or financial institution may also be necessary.
Q 8.Can a BNPL app integrate with existing eCommerce platforms?
Yes. BNPL apps can integrate with marketplaces and online stores using plug-ins or API integration—Shopify, Magento, WooCommerce, and custom stores. Many apps also support in-store POS BNPL integration.
Q 9.Do I need AI/ML in a BNPL app?
AI/ML significantly improves:
-
Credit scoring & risk prediction
-
Fraud detection
-
Spending limit assignment
-
Personalized offers
-
Collection reminders
It reduces defaults and increases profitability, making AI a strong competitive advantage.
Q 10.Can you build a BNPL app similar to Afterpay, Klarna, or Sezzle?
Yes. A custom BNPL platform can include the same functionalities — even more — like multi-merchant support, cashback rewards, loyalty programs, virtual cards, and AI-driven credit assessment.
Q 11.Do merchants need a separate dashboard?
Yes, BNPL systems usually provide a merchant portal/dashboard where sellers can:
-
Track transactions
-
Approve settlements
-
Manage customer payments
-
Create promotional offers
-
View analytics & insights
Q 12.What technology stack is best for BNPL app development?
Commonly used tech stack includes:
-
Frontend: React Native / Flutter
-
Backend: Node.js / Java / Python
-
Database: PostgreSQL / MongoDB
-
Cloud: AWS / GCP / Azure
-
Security: PCI-DSS & AES-256 encryption
-
AI/ML: TensorFlow / Scikit-Learn
Q 13.Can I launch a BNPL app without a banking license?
Yes — depending on the country, you can operate by:
-
Partnering with a licensed bank or NBFC
-
Using third-party payment infrastructure providers
This is a standard route for new BNPL startups.
Q 14.What are the different alternatives of Klarna or Tabby?
Some of the top alternatives of Klarna and Tabby include
- PayPal Credit
- Sezzle
- Afterpay
- Tamara
- CredPal
- ePayLater
Rate this article!
Join 60,000+ Subscribers
Get the weekly updates on the newest brand stories, business models and technology right in your inbox.
Introducing Nalini, our tech-savvy content expert at Apptunix, with 8+ years of experience in technical content writing. With a knack for making complex ideas simple, she turns intricate tech concepts into engaging reads. Her work highlights emerging trends such as AI-powered applications, cross-platform development, digital transformation initiatives, and B2B technology solutions. Through her strategic storytelling, she plays a vital role in advancing Apptunix’s mission to shape the future of mobile and web experiences, enabling clients to make smarter, technology-driven decisions that accelerate growth and secure a competitive edge.
Related Posts
Partner with tech catalysts who transform ideas into impact.
Book your free consultation with us.
Let’s Talk!
Partner with tech catalysts who transform ideas into impact.
Book your free consultation with us.
Let’s Talk!
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
One Central, The offices 3, Level 3, DWTC, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
+971 50 782 1690
Speak With Our Experts
