How to Develop a Live Shopping Platform Like Whatnot?

Instead of scrolling endlessly through product listings, shoppers today are tuning into live streams where sellers show off products, answer questions in real time, and let viewers place bids or buy instantly. It’s shopping that feels more like a social event than a transaction.

Shopping is no longer just clicking “Add to Cart.” It’s a show. A conversation. Sometimes, even a bidding war.

That’s exactly what Whatnot nailed. The platform turned live selling into a blend of entertainment, competition, and community. And it’s clearly paying off. Whatnot crossed over $1 billion in annual gross merchandise value (GMV) and continues to grow as live shopping becomes one of the fastest-rising eCommerce trends worldwide.

Experts predict that by 2028, live shopping could account for nearly 20% of all online retail sales globally, reaching an estimated $800 billion market size. That means now is the perfect time for founders and brands to jump in before the next wave of growth hits.

In this guide, we’ll break down how live commerce works, the key features you need, the tech stack behind apps like Whatnot, and what it really takes to develop a live shopping platform like Whatnot.

Overview of Whatnot Platform & How It Works

Whatnot has completely transformed the way people shop online by blending entertainment with commerce. It is not merely browsing products; it is more like being at a live event, where each interaction adds to the thrill.

Fundamentally, Whatnot is a live video commerce experience where sellers conduct real-time streaming sessions to present products, conduct auctions, and interact face-to-face with viewers. Customers can view, inquire, bid, or buy immediately as the excitement of the moment drives participation.

Unlike other e-commerce apps that use static product images and comments, Whatnot builds a dynamic and interactive shopping experience.

Imagine attending a live sneaker drop, communicating with the vendor about product specifications, and outbidding another consumer seconds before the countdown expires. It gamifies shopping, and that sense of involvement generates both confidence and urgency.

Whatnot’s key to success is the integration of live streaming, real-time bidding, and instant checkout. Consumers view the product in use, ask for closer inspections, and have their questions addressed in real-time. This openness increases trust and dramatically enhances conversions.

If you are interested in building a live e-commerce platform such as Whatnot, mastering this blend of commerce and entertainment is key. The ultimate goal is to create an environment where consumers feel immersed, entertained, and motivated to make a purchase.

The platform thrives on three core elements:

Live Streaming: Real-time product demonstrations where consumers can view every detail. It mimics the in-store purchasing experience, allowing viewers to examine products as if they were in direct presence.

Interactive Engagement: Chat, Q&A, and bidding foster a direct human connection between buyers and sellers. Viewers may request product demos, provide feedback, and even drive the course of the live session.

Instant Purchase and Bidding: Buyers can bid or make instant buys in a single click when excitement reaches its peak. This directness eliminates the usual unwillingness of online shopping and stimulates impulse purchases.

All of these factors combine to create an overwhelming sense of urgency and shared community that simply isn’t possible with traditional eCommerce platforms. This is why business owners looking to build a live shopping platform like Whatnot are prioritizing these interaction-based features as the core of their app.

Why Are Live Shopping Platforms Booming?

Live shopping is revolutionizing e-commerce by making passive browsing an active, community-based experience. Consumers now desire connection, live interaction, and the thrill of discovery. Whatnot, Popshop Live, and ShopShops offer all of the above and more.

Key Market Stats

-> The live commerce platforms market is projected to expand from $2.4 billion in 2024 to $7.2 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate of almost 20%

-> Livestream e-commerce in total was worth $15 billion in 2024 and is forecasted to hit close to $159 billion by 2033.

-> More than 60% of brands intend to expand their live shopping event budget in 2024, and 70% of buyers indicate they’re more likely to purchase after viewing a live session.

-> Live shopping sessions generate more order values, on average 20% higher than eCommerce.

-> China takes the lead, with its live commerce market expected to reach $2.4 trillion by 2030 nearly all of the growth fueled by engagement-first platforms.

China, the US, European, and Middle Eastern consumers are increasingly drawn to live commerce, as it is perceived to be authentic and spontaneous. A host who demonstrates a product in real-time, answers questions, or provides flash sale offers is much more compelling than scrolling product pages. That degree of real-time interaction is exactly why live shopping app development is booming across sectors.

If you wish to create a live shopping app that doesn’t only sell but also connects, the time is now. Whether you are interested in beauty, collectibles, fashion, or niche categories, live commerce brings an experience where transactions occur and communities are built.

Must-Have Features for a Live Shopping App Like Whatnot

To develop a live shopping platform like Whatnot, you need to build more than just a streaming tool. A successful platform blends entertainment, trust, and instant purchasing to create an experience buyers keep coming back to. It’s about combining real-time interaction with smooth eCommerce workflows. Let’s break it down.

• Live Video Streaming

Your streaming quality is make-or-break for the experience. Low-latency, high-definition video is not optional, particularly in auctions. WebRTC and RTMP technologies enable real-time interaction between the host and viewer, ensuring zero lag during product demos or last-second bids. Consider how Whatnot streams collectible auctions—seconds are everything.

• Real-Time Bidding and Auctions

It is where the excitement reaches its climax. Functions such as live bidding dashboards, countdown timers, and dynamic pricing keep the users engaged. If the price fluctuates in real-time or buyers perceive that they may miss out during the last seconds, it triggers quicker purchase decisions.

• Product Showcase with Instant Buy Option

Having the ability to buy directly in the live stream (without ever having to leave the video) is a central reason live commerce is so successful. A “buy now” button linked to the host’s feed makes shopping seamless.

• Interactive Chat and Emojis

People don’t merely want to see; they want to be part of it. Chatting in real time, emojis, and instant reaction make them feel like they belong. It’s the online version of discussing with fellow shoppers at a shop.

• User Profiles and Wallets

Buyers and sellers need to have user profiles that can be customized with payment options, wallet balance, and purchase history. A wallet option enables instant checkout, refunds, and tipping in live sessions.

• Push Notifications and Alerts

Live commerce lives on immediacy. Push notifications for new live streams, special product launches, or auction reminders. A timely reminder can return users who could otherwise forget about your stream.

• Multi-Device Support

No matter what platform your viewers are on, iOS, Android, or desktop, the experience must be uniform. Cross-platform support widens your audience and makes live streaming more convenient.

• AI-Driven Product Recommendations

Imagine a viewer watching a sneaker auction, and the app suggests similar products or upcoming auctions based on their viewing history. AI-powered recommendations increase upselling opportunities and keep users engaged even after the session ends.

• AR-Based Product Previews

Augmented Reality (AR) takes product visualization to the next level. Viewers can virtually “try on” items like sunglasses, makeup, or clothing, or place furniture in their room. This creates an experience close to in-store shopping.

• Integrated Payment Gateways with Escrow

Trust is crucial in live commerce, particularly when handling high-value collectibles. An escrow system ensures that funds are held until both parties confirm the transaction, thereby reducing the risk of fraud. Support multiple payment gateways, including region-specific ones like Apple Pay, PayPal, or local solutions in the UAE and US.

• Social Media & Influencer Integration

Your hosts and influencers are your most significant assets. The ability to multi-stream to Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube while keeping live sales active can significantly expand your reach. Built-in social sharing features amplify marketing efforts.

• Real-Time Analytics for Sellers

Give sellers actionable insights during and after their live sessions. Metrics like viewer count, peak engagement times, sales conversions, and chat interactions help them refine their approach and host more successful events.

Also Read: An Ultimate Guide to Build a Shopping App Like Costco!

Steps to Develop a Live Shopping Platform

Building a platform like Whatnot isn’t just about adding video to an eCommerce site. It’s about creating a fully interactive ecosystem that combines live streaming, instant buying, and social engagement. Here’s how to approach live shopping app development step by step:

1 Market Research & Competitor Analysis

Start by analyzing successful apps like Whatnot, Popshop Live, and ShopShops. Understand what drives their engagement whether it’s live auctions, influencer collaborations, or niche communities. Look for gaps where your app can stand out.

2 Define Monetization Strategy

Before diving into design, determine how the platform will generate revenue. Commission-based fees, premium subscriptions, ad placements, or seller listing fees these revenue models shape the entire business structure.

3 Feature Roadmap (MVP vs Full Version)

When planning cost to develop a live shopping app, don’t overload the first version with every feature. Launch a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) with core functionalities like live streaming, product listings, and instant checkout. Advanced features, such as AI recommendations or AR previews, can be added later.

4 UI/UX Design

The interface is everything. It must feel interactive, intuitive, and visually engaging. Focus on clean product displays, smooth transitions during live streams, and an easy checkout flow.

5 Backend & Streaming Architecture

This is the backbone of the platform. To develop a live shopping platform like Whatnot, you need ultra-low latency streaming that can handle thousands of concurrent viewers without buffering. Solutions like WebRTC or Agora.io are often used.

6 Testing & QA

Rigorous testing is non-negotiable. From stress-testing your streaming servers to securing payment gateways, every component must be optimized for both performance and reliability.

7 Launch & Marketing

Go live with a clear strategy. Partner with influencers, onboard sellers, and run exclusive live events to attract early adopters. Building trust is key in the first 90 days.

Tech Stack for Live Shopping Platform Development

Building a live shopping platform requires a technology stack that can handle real-time video, instant interactions, and secure transactions all while staying scalable as your audience grows. If you want to develop a live shopping platform like Whatnot, choosing the right tools and frameworks is just as important as your feature set.

A. Frontend Development

React Native or Flutter are ideal for live shopping app development because they deliver a smooth, native-like experience on both iOS and Android from a single codebase. These frameworks allow faster development without compromising performance, which is critical for video-heavy applications.

B. Backend Development

For a backend that can handle real-time bidding, notifications, and streaming events, Node.js, Django, or Laravel work well. They provide scalable APIs and can easily integrate with live auction engines or chat systems.

C. Live Streaming Technology

This is the heart of your platform. WebRTC, Agora.io, or Wowza are leading solutions for high-quality, low-latency video streaming. WebRTC is especially popular for interactive sessions because it enables real-time communication between hosts and viewers with minimal delay.

D. Database Management

You’ll likely need a combination of databases. PostgreSQL or MySQL handle structured data like user accounts, transactions, and product catalogs. For real-time chat, notifications, or bidding logs, NoSQL solutions like Firebase or MongoDB offer the speed and flexibility needed.

E. Cloud & Hosting

For a growing Whatnot app development project, cloud providers like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud Platform are essential. They handle live video delivery, provide on-demand scalability, and offer global CDNs to ensure smooth performance regardless of user location.

F. Payment Gateways

Secure, seamless payments are non-negotiable. Options like Stripe and PayPal cover global transactions, while region-specific solutions like Telr or PayFort cater to UAE markets. Escrow integration adds an extra layer of protection for both buyers and sellers.

Read More: How to Build a Shopping App Like Temu?

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Live Shopping Platform?

The cost to develop a live shopping platform like Whatnot depends on the depth of features, the tech stack, and the scope of the project. It’s not just about coding a streaming feature; you’re building an ecosystem for buyers, sellers, and influencers.

Factors Affecting Live Streaming App Development Cost Breakdown

When you decide to develop a live shopping platform like Whatnot, the total investment depends on multiple factors. A live shopping app is an interactive ecosystem that combines live streaming, bidding, real-time engagement, and instant purchases. Every feature, technology choice, and development decision impacts the live streaming eCommerce platform cost.

1. Feature complexity

The depth of features you want plays the biggest role in cost. Adding advanced tools like real-time auctions, AI-driven product recommendations, AR-based product previews, or predictive analytics can increase both the live auction app development time and cost to develop a live shopping app. A basic eCommerce live streaming app with core functionality is far cheaper compared to one that mirrors Whatnot’s advanced setup.

2. Tech stack

The technologies powering your platform matter. Using streaming technologies like WebRTC, Agora.io, or Wowza ensures high-quality, low-latency streaming but comes at a higher price point. These tools are essential if you want to build a live shopping app that can handle thousands of concurrent viewers.

3. Platform choice

Deciding between cross-platform development (using React Native or Flutter) and separate native iOS and Android apps directly affects the budget. Cross-platform development is faster and more cost-effective for a first launch, while native apps offer better performance at a higher price.

4. Development team

The cost also varies based on who you work with. Hiring live shopping app developers in regions like the US or UAE is typically more expensive than working with offshore teams, but you benefit from expertise, faster communication, and domain knowledge. Partnering with a seasoned team that specializes in Whatnot app development ensures fewer technical hiccups and better long-term scalability.

5. Hosting and backend infrastructure

Streaming live video to a large audience is resource-heavy. Using cloud providers like AWS, GCP, or Azure adds to recurring operational costs but ensures reliability and scalability. Expect infrastructure to take up a significant part of your live streaming app development cost breakdown, especially if your sessions attract high traffic.

NOTE: If you’re wondering how much does it cost to build an app like Whatnot, the realistic range is $20,000 to $120,000+ for a complete eCommerce live streaming app with advanced features.

MVP: 3–8+ weeks (streaming, bidding, payments, chat).
Full version: 6–12+ months with AI, AR, analytics, and cross-platform scalability.

Monetisation Model To Generate Fast ROI from a Live Shopping Platform

Monetisation is the core of any shopping platform development strategy. It’s not only about developing the app, but also about generating sustainable revenue while providing value to both sellers and buyers. Below are some of the most successful models that platforms such as Whatnot employ:

• Commission on Sales

This is the most widespread method. The site charges a fixed rate on each successful sale within live streams. It’s income-driven; the higher your sales, the greater your profit.

• Premium Seller Subscriptions

Provide tiered selling membership levels and brand memberships. For instance, premium members get priority live time positions, advanced metrics, or promotional features. This strategy provides revenue assured monthly.

• Ad Placements During Live Streams

Similar to YouTube, you may include banner ads, short videos ads, or highlighted sponsor products within live sessions. This is ideal for big audiences and brands seeking a lot of visibility.

• Sponsored Events & Influencer Collaborations

Brands can pay influencers or best-selling authors to host private live sessions featuring their products. This tactic not only generates direct income but also traffic and trust.

• In-App Tipping & Virtual Gifts

Live shopping relies on engagement. Viewers can buy virtual gifts or leave tips for hosts while watching live streams. Sites charge a commission on these microtransactions, providing a stable revenue stream.

Future-Ready Trends in Live Shopping Platform Development

Live shopping is evolving quickly, and staying ahead means building features that go beyond the basics of Whatnot app development. Here’s what’s shaping the future:

1 AI-Driven Personalization

AI analyzes viewer behavior during live sessions and recommends products in real-time. For example, if a buyer clicks on a sneaker, AI can suggest similar styles, display relevant offers, and send personalized alerts.

2 Augmented Reality (AR) & Virtual Try-Ons

AR is bridging the gap between online and offline experiences. Buyers can virtually try on clothes, accessories, or even preview how furniture looks in their space all while watching a live stream.

3 Social Media & Influencer Integration

Live shopping apps are increasingly syncing with platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Influencer-led live streams bring massive traffic and help build trust with younger audiences.

4 Gamified Shopping Experiences

Live polls, countdown offers, flash sales, and interactive games make live sessions fun and addictive. This gamification not only keeps users engaged but also boosts impulse purchases.

5 NFT & Blockchain Integration

For collectibles and luxury goods, NFTs and blockchain-backed certificates of authenticity are becoming popular. This ensures secure ownership and trust between buyers and sellers.

6 Ultra-Low Latency Streaming (5G + WebRTC)

To keep viewers engaged, live video must be smooth and instant. Technologies like WebRTC, combined with 5G, deliver lag-free experiences that make interactions feel real-time.

7 Voice Commerce & AI Chatbots

Voice-enabled commands and AI chatbots make it easy for viewers to ask questions, get instant responses, and even place orders hands-free during a live stream.

8 Integrated Analytics for Sellers

Real-time dashboards allow hosts to track viewer engagement, top-performing products, and conversion metrics, enabling smarter future streams.

Why Choose Apptunix to Build Your Live Shopping Platform?

Building a live shopping platform like Whatnot requires far more than just streaming technology. You need a partner who understands the intersection of eCommerce, real-time engagement, and scalable architecture. This is where Apptunix stands out.

With 12+ years of expertise in live shopping app development, we’ve worked with global brands and ambitious startups to design platforms that aren’t just functional but drive real business outcomes. We know what it takes to combine live streaming, instant checkout, and influencer-driven sales into one seamless user experience.

OUR PORTFOLIO

Our team has delivered marketplaces, auction-based apps, and social commerce solutions with advanced features like:

• WebRTC-powered live streaming for zero-lag interactions.
• AI-based product recommendations that boost conversions.
• AR/VR virtual try-ons for fashion, beauty, and luxury goods.
• Scalable cloud-based architectures that handle thousands of concurrent viewers.

What sets us apart is our consultative approach. We don’t just focus on the live streaming eCommerce platform cost, we design a roadmap that balances MVP launches with future-ready upgrades. Our goal is to help you create a platform that attracts users, scales effortlessly, and generates revenue from day one.

When you hire live shopping app developers from Apptunix, you get a dedicated team with deep experience in Whatnot app development tailored to your niche.

Wrapping Up!

Live shopping is changing the game for retail and eCommerce. Platforms like Whatnot have proven that when shopping becomes interactive and real-time, engagement skyrockets, conversions improve, and loyal communities naturally form around sellers.

If you’re wondering how to build a live shopping app like Whatnot, there’s no better time to get started. The cost to develop a live shopping platform depends on the features, tech stack, and scalability you aim for — but the ROI potential is enormous as live commerce continues to reshape the online buying experience.

At Apptunix, we help brands and startups develop high-performance eCommerce live streaming apps that blend smooth streaming, real-time interaction, and effective monetization models. From defining your live shopping platform development roadmap to building scalable infrastructure and providing post-launch optimization, our team supports your journey from concept to launch.

Ready to launch your own live shopping platform? Our team can help you plan, design, and build a live shopping app that sets new standards for engagement and growth.