Online betting has become a big part of how people enjoy sports and casino games today. Instead of walking into a betting shop or logging into a website, most users now prefer placing bets directly from their smartphones. It’s quick, easy, and always within reach.

One popular name in this space is 188Bet—a betting app known for its smooth experience, wide range of sports events, and real-time updates. It has gained a loyal user base by making betting simple and engaging.

If you’ve ever thought about building something similar, now is a great time. In this blog, we’ll walk you through what it takes to create an app like 188Bet—from key features and tech choices to how much it might cost and what legal steps you need to take. Whether you’re starting from scratch or already have an idea, this guide will help you better understand how to develop an app like 188Bet and successfully enter the market for sports betting website development and mobile platforms.

What is 188Bet?

188Bet is an established online betting platform that offers a wide range of gambling options, including sports betting, live casino games, and virtual sports. Originally launched in 2006, the brand quickly gained popularity, especially in Asia and parts of Europe, for its competitive odds, real-time betting options, and fast payouts.

History and Background

188Bet is operated by Cube Limited and was initially licensed in the Isle of Man. Over the years, it has built a solid reputation for being reliable and transparent. The platform focused heavily on football betting in its early years, attracting sports fans with great odds on major leagues. As its popularity grew, the platform expanded its offerings to include a full-fledged online casino, esports, and other betting markets.

Key Features That Make It Popular

One of the reasons 188Bet continues to attract users is its focus on usability and variety. Here are some of the standout features that define the app:

Extensive Sports Betting Options: 188Bet covers a wide range of sports—football, basketball, tennis, rugby, cricket, and more. Users can place pre-match and live bets with up-to-the-minute odds.
Live Casino Games: Beyond sports, 188Bet offers a premium casino experience with live dealers, popular table games like blackjack and roulette, and real-time video streaming.
User-Friendly Interface: The app and website are designed for smooth navigation. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a newcomer, it’s easy to find matches, place bets, and track outcomes.
Fast Deposits and Withdrawals: 188Bet supports multiple payment methods and is known for processing withdrawals quickly, which helps build user trust.
Mobile Compatibility: With a responsive mobile site and dedicated apps, users can enjoy betting on the go without any drop in performance or accessibility.

Market Reach and User Base

188Bet has a strong presence in Asia—particularly in countries like Thailand and Vietnam—but it has also gained recognition in parts of Europe. Over the years, the company has sponsored football clubs and leagues, boosting its visibility among sports fans.

The platform’s success lies in its ability to cater to both casual and serious bettors by offering competitive odds, seamless functionality, and reliable customer support. This wide appeal has helped 188Bet build a large and loyal user base across different regions.

Why Develop a Betting App Like 188Bet?

With the steady rise of smartphones and digital entertainment, more people are shifting from traditional betting shops to mobile betting apps. This growing demand has created a massive opportunity for entrepreneurs and businesses looking to enter the online betting space.

Growing Demand for Online Betting Platforms

People today want quick, easy, and secure ways to place bets—whether they’re watching a football match, playing live poker, or following a tennis tournament. Betting apps like 188Bet meet this need by offering real-time odds, instant notifications, and seamless transactions, all from the comfort of a mobile phone.

The global online gambling market is projected to grow steadily over the next few years, which means now is a great time to develop a betting app like 188Bet. Users are actively looking for platforms that are easy to use, reliable, and full of exciting options.

High Revenue Potential

One of the biggest reasons to create an app like 188Bet is the strong earning potential. Betting apps generate revenue in several ways:

In-play Betting: Live betting attracts a large number of users and often involves higher bet volumes.
Subscriptions & VIP Models: Some platforms offer premium features or exclusive odds to paying members.
Advertisements & Sponsorships: Betting apps can also earn money by displaying targeted ads or partnering with sports brands.

The more engaging and user-friendly your app is, the higher your chances of converting casual visitors into loyal, paying users.

Advantages Over Traditional Betting

Unlike physical betting shops, mobile betting apps offer unmatched convenience. Users can place bets anytime, anywhere—no need to wait in line or stick to fixed operating hours.

Apps also provide added features that traditional betting can’t match:

Live Streaming: Many apps let users watch matches directly within the platform.
Instant Bonuses: Promotions like welcome bonuses, cashback offers, and loyalty rewards help keep users engaged.
Personalized Experience: Users get updates based on their favorite teams, betting history, and preferred games.

By choosing to build an app like 188Bet, you’re not just replicating a successful platform—you’re tapping into a fast-moving industry that rewards innovation, user experience, and accessibility.

188Bet Clone App Development

Want to enter the booming online betting industry with a proven model? Our 188Bet clone app development service helps you launch a powerful and scalable betting platform inspired by one of the industry’s top players—188Bet.

We offer a fully customizable, ready-to-deploy solution that mirrors the functionality and flow of 188Bet, allowing you to focus on branding, user acquisition, and market expansion. Whether you’re targeting a local market or a global audience, we tailor the app to meet your business goals and compliance requirements. As a trusted white label sportsbook provider, we offer ready-to-launch solutions that can be customized to match your brand and vision. With our experienced team, you’ll get end-to-end support—from design and development to integration, deployment, and post-launch maintenance. We also provide guidance on licensing, payment processing, and security to ensure your app is fully compliant and ready for real-world use.

How You Can Earn by Creating a Betting App Like 188Bet

Creating a betting app isn’t just about offering a great user experience—it’s also a smart business move with strong earning potential. Once your app is live and running, there are multiple ways to generate revenue. Here’s how you can monetize a poker or sports betting app similar to 188Bet:

1. Commission on Bets (Margin Profit)

The most common revenue model in betting apps is taking a small margin on each bet. This is known as the “house edge” or overround, where the odds are slightly adjusted in favor of the platform. Over time and across thousands of bets, these small margins add up to consistent profits—even if users win or lose.

2. Premium Memberships

Offer a VIP or premium plan for users who want extra features, such as:

Access to exclusive odds
Early betting opportunities
Faster withdrawals
Higher betting limits

Premium memberships provide recurring revenue and enhance user loyalty by giving paying users a better experience.

3. In-App Ads

You can also earn by showing targeted ads within the app. Partner with:

Sports brands
Casino game providers
Betting-related tools (analytics, predictions, etc.)

Make sure ads are relevant and non-intrusive so they don’t interrupt the betting experience. In-app ads are especially effective in free versions of your app.

4. Affiliate Marketing

Another smart way to boost revenue is through affiliate programs. You can:

Reward users for referring friends (referral bonuses)
Partner with other platforms or influencers to promote your app
Earn commissions by linking to other betting or gaming services

Affiliate marketing not only increases income but also helps grow your user base at a lower cost.

Must-Have Features of a Betting App Like 188Bet

To create an app like 188Bet that users trust and enjoy, it’s important to get the features right. These features should not only make betting easy and fun but also ensure the app is secure, fast, and compliant with regulations. Let’s break down the essential features from both the user’s and admin’s perspectives.

A. User Panel Features

This is the part of the app that bettors interact with. It needs to be intuitive, responsive, and packed with useful tools.

Registration & Login

Users should be able to sign up quickly using their email, phone number, or social media accounts. A smooth onboarding process builds trust. Make sure to include two-factor authentication for added security.

Secure Payment Gateway

Your app must support a range of safe and convenient payment options. This includes credit/debit cards, e-wallets like PayPal or Skrill, and even cryptocurrencies for markets that support it. Fast deposits and easy withdrawals are key to retaining users.

Sports Betting Options

Offer a wide variety of sports to bet on—football, tennis, basketball, cricket, and more. Include both local and international events to attract a broader audience.

Live Betting & Streaming

Live betting is a major attraction for users. Give them the ability to place bets during live matches with dynamic odds updates. Integrating live video streaming can boost engagement significantly.

Casino Games

Along with sports betting, many users enjoy casino-style games. Include popular options like slots, poker, roulette, and blackjack to give users more ways to play and win.

Bonuses & Promotions

Incentivize new users with welcome bonuses, and keep existing ones engaged with free bets, cashback offers, and loyalty programs. Promotions can be time-based or linked to specific events.

Betting History & Transaction Records

Allow users to easily view their past bets, wins/losses, and payment history. This adds transparency and helps them manage their betting habits.

Push Notifications

Keep users informed about match alerts, last-minute betting opportunities, bonus offers, and important account updates through timely push notifications.

Multi-language & Multi-currency Support

If you want to build an app like 188Bet that attracts a global audience, your app should support multiple languages and currencies to suit users from different regions.

B. Admin Panel Features

The admin dashboard is the control center of your app. It allows you to monitor activity, manage users, and keep everything running smoothly.

User Management

Admins should be able to view user profiles, verify KYC documents, suspend accounts if needed, and manage support tickets. Ensuring the platform is used responsibly is key to compliance and reputation.

Bet & Odds Management

This feature allows admins to set, update, or disable betting markets and odds. Real-time updates are crucial for live betting events.

Fraud Detection & Security Monitoring

Integrate tools to detect suspicious activity, prevent account hacking, and stop financial fraud. This protects both the business and its users.

Payment & Withdrawal Approvals

Admins should be able to approve or flag payments, manage withdrawal requests, and track all financial transactions happening on the platform.

Marketing & Promotions Management

Create, schedule, and manage promotions and campaigns directly from the backend. This helps you attract and retain users without needing a separate system.

Analytics & Reports

Access data on user activity, most popular games, bet volume, win/loss ratios, and overall revenue. These insights help make informed business decisions and optimize performance.

Technology Stack for Developing a Betting App

To build a high-quality betting app like 188Bet, choosing the right technology stack is critical. Your app needs to be fast, secure, scalable, and responsive across all devices. Here’s a breakdown of the essential technologies you’ll need:

Frontend Development

For the user interface (what your users see and interact with), you’ll want a framework that allows you to build once and deploy across both Android and iOS.

React Native and Flutter are the top choices here. Both are powerful, cross-platform frameworks that help you save time and development costs while delivering a smooth, native-like experience.

These tools are perfect for creating user-friendly dashboards, seamless navigation, and real-time betting interactions.

Backend Development

The backend is where the core logic of your betting app lives—handling bets, processing transactions, managing users, and more.

Node.js is a popular choice for real-time applications because it’s lightweight and fast.
Python (especially with frameworks like Django or Flask) is also great for building secure and scalable backends, especially when combined with data-heavy features like live betting odds and user analytics.

These tools ensure your app performs well under high loads and handles complex operations reliably.

Database Management

You’ll need a reliable database to store user data, bet histories, transactions, odds, and more.

MySQL and PostgreSQL are excellent for structured data and financial transactions.
MongoDB is ideal if your app needs to store flexible, document-based data (e.g., user preferences or activity logs).

You can also use a mix of these databases depending on your needs.

Payment Integration

A seamless and secure payment process is essential in any betting app.

Use Stripe and PayPal for traditional payment methods like credit/debit cards and wallets.
Integrate Coinbase Commerce or similar services if you plan to accept cryptocurrencies, which are becoming increasingly popular in betting platforms.

These gateways handle user payments securely and help ensure regulatory compliance.

Security Features

Security is non-negotiable when handling real money and user data.

SSL Encryption secures the data exchanged between the user and the server.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of account protection.
Implement firewalls, DDoS protection, and encrypted data storage to further reduce risk.

Security should be a top priority from day one of development.

Live Streaming Support

Live streaming can boost engagement and give your app a competitive edge—especially for live sports and casino events.

WebRTC is great for real-time video streaming and low-latency interactions.
Wowza is a powerful platform that supports high-quality streaming for both live sports and casino tables.

Integrating streaming enhances the in-play betting experience and keeps users active longer.

Cloud Hosting

Your app needs to be scalable and always available, especially during peak betting times.

AWS (Amazon Web Services) and Google Cloud Platform (GCP) are ideal for hosting large-scale apps.
They provide flexible server resources, database hosting, CDN services, and advanced security features.

Choosing a reliable cloud provider ensures your app runs smoothly, even with thousands of users online at the same time.

Legal & Compliance Considerations

When you’re planning to develop a betting app like 188Bet, it’s not just about features and design—you also need to navigate the legal landscape carefully. Gambling is a highly regulated industry, and failing to comply with the laws can result in heavy fines, bans, or even criminal charges.

Here are the key legal and compliance areas you must address:

Gambling Licenses

To operate legally, your app needs to be licensed by a recognized gambling authority. The license you choose depends on your target markets.

UKGC (UK Gambling Commission) – Ideal if you’re targeting users in the United Kingdom. It’s one of the strictest and most respected licenses.
MGA (Malta Gaming Authority) – A popular choice for European operators due to its flexible but credible regulatory standards.
Curacao eGaming – Easier and faster to obtain, this license is often used for startups or global apps looking to enter multiple markets.

A proper license builds trust with users and allows your app to appear on legitimate app stores and payment platforms.

Age Verification & KYC Regulations

To prevent underage gambling and fraud, your app must have systems in place to verify a user’s identity and age. This is where KYC (Know Your Customer) protocols come in.

Ask users to submit valid ID documents during registration or first withdrawal.
Use third-party verification tools to cross-check data and ensure compliance.
Set minimum age requirements according to regional laws (usually 18+ or 21+).

This step protects both the user and your platform from legal issues.

Responsible Gambling Features

A responsible betting environment not only helps with legal compliance but also builds credibility with users.

Self-Exclusion Tools: Allow users to voluntarily block access to their accounts for a set period.
Deposit Limits: Let users set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits to control their spending.
Reality Checks: Show pop-ups after long betting sessions reminding users to take breaks.

Most jurisdictions require these features, and they also demonstrate that your app cares about player wellbeing.

Regional Restrictions

Betting is not legal everywhere. Before you launch, check the gambling laws in each country or state you plan to operate in.

In some regions, online betting is fully legal and regulated.
In others, it’s banned or restricted to government-run platforms.
App stores like Google Play and Apple have their own rules for where betting apps can be listed.

Make sure your platform automatically blocks users from restricted regions using geolocation technology and IP filtering.

188Bet Clone App Development Process

Building a betting app like 188Bet isn’t just about coding—it’s a step-by-step journey that involves planning, design, development, testing, and smart marketing. Here’s a breakdown of the key stages involved in creating a successful betting app:

Step 1: Market Research & Competitor Analysis

Before writing a single line of code, it’s important to understand the market you’re entering. This includes:

Analyzing existing apps like 188Bet to see what works and what doesn’t.
Identifying your target audience—casual sports fans, serious gamblers, casino players, or all of the above.
Researching regional laws and preferences to shape your app’s features and compliance.

Thorough research ensures you’re not building blindly and helps you create a product that stands out.

Step 2: UI/UX Design (Wireframing & Prototyping)

Once you understand your market, the next step is designing the user interface.

Start with wireframes—basic layouts that show how the app will look and function.
Move on to prototypes—interactive designs that simulate the real app experience.

A clean, user-friendly interface is crucial in a betting app, where users want to place bets quickly and easily. Good design increases engagement and reduces user drop-off.

Step 3: Frontend & Backend Development

After the design is approved, developers begin working on both the front and back ends:

Frontend handles the user-facing side of the app—buttons, menus, odds displays, and live scores.
Backend manages everything behind the scenes—user accounts, bet processing, odds calculations, and data storage.

This is where the core functionality of your app comes to life, using technologies like React Native, Node.js, or Django.

Step 4: Integration of Payment & Betting APIs

To allow users to deposit, withdraw, and place bets, your app must connect with third-party services:

Payment Gateways like Stripe, PayPal, or Coinbase handle secure transactions.
Betting APIs provide live odds, match updates, and event data in real time.

These integrations must be fast, secure, and compliant with industry regulations.

Step 5: Testing (Security, Performance, UX)

Before going live, your app must be thoroughly tested:

Security Testing ensures all user data and transactions are safe from hacks.
Performance Testing checks how the app performs under heavy usage—especially important for live events.
UX Testing involves real users trying out the app to spot confusing navigation or bugs.

This phase helps polish your app and prevent costly issues after launch.

Step 6: Launch & Marketing Strategy

Once your app is tested and approved, it’s time to go live.

Submit the app to the Google Play Store and Apple App Store (following their betting app policies).
Use digital marketing strategies—social media ads, influencer partnerships, SEO, and referral bonuses—to attract and retain users.

A strong launch and continued promotion are just as important as development in the success of your app.

Challenges in Developing a Betting App Like 188Bet

While building a betting app like 188Bet can be a profitable venture, it’s not without its hurdles. From legal barriers to technical complexities, here are some of the key challenges you should be prepared for:

1. High Competition in the Betting Industry

The online betting market is already crowded with big players like Bet365, 188Bet, and William Hill. To stand out, your app needs a unique angle—whether it’s better user experience, niche betting markets, or innovative features like gamification or crypto betting. Without a clear value proposition, it’s easy to get lost in the noise.

2. Strict Legal Regulations

Gambling laws vary widely across countries and are often complex. You’ll need proper licenses, KYC procedures, and tools for responsible gambling. On top of that, app stores have strict rules about listing betting apps, especially on Google Play and the Apple App Store. Navigating these legal requirements takes time, money, and expert guidance.

3. Security Risks (Fraud, Hacking)

Any app that deals with money is a target for fraud and cyberattacks. If your platform isn’t secure, users can lose trust—and you could lose your license or face legal penalties. Building in strong security measures like data encryption, 2FA, and fraud detection systems is absolutely essential from day one.

4. Maintaining Real-Time Odds & Live Streaming Quality

One of the main reasons people use betting apps is for live betting. But delivering accurate, real-time odds and smooth video streams is technically demanding. You’ll need robust backend systems, fast APIs, and low-latency streaming tools. Even a few seconds of delay can affect user experience and lead to disputes over bets.

Future Trends in Betting Apps

The online betting industry is constantly evolving, and staying ahead of the curve can give your app a serious competitive edge. As technology advances, so do user expectations. If you’re planning to create an app like 188Bet, here are the top trends shaping the future of betting platforms:

1. AI & Machine Learning for Personalized Betting Tips

Artificial Intelligence is playing a big role in modern betting apps. Machine learning algorithms can analyze a user’s behavior, preferences, and betting history to offer personalized suggestions and tips. These AI-powered insights not only improve the user experience but also boost engagement and retention by helping users make smarter, more informed bets.

2. Virtual Reality (VR) Casinos

Imagine walking into a virtual casino, sitting at a blackjack table, and playing with real dealers and other players—all from your living room. That’s the promise of VR betting. While still emerging, VR casinos are gaining interest and could soon become a premium feature in high-end apps, offering a fully immersive and interactive gaming experience.

3. Cryptocurrency & Blockchain-Based Betting

As digital currencies become more mainstream, many betting platforms are starting to accept crypto payments like Bitcoin and Ethereum. Some are even exploring blockchain-based betting systems, which offer greater transparency, faster payouts, and reduced transaction fees. Blockchain also helps build trust by making bet outcomes and transactions provably fair and tamper-proof.

4. Social Betting (Community Features)

Betting is becoming more social. Apps are beginning to include features like leaderboards, friend challenges, group bets, and forums where users can discuss strategies or upcoming events. This trend—known as social betting—adds a layer of community and interaction, making the app feel more like a game and less like a solo experience.

Incorporating these trends can future-proof your platform and set it apart in a competitive market. If you plan to develop a betting app like 188Bet, thinking ahead is just as important as getting the basics right today.

Cost of Developing a Betting App Like 188Bet

The cost to develop a betting app like 188Bet typically ranges between $20,000 to $100,000, depending on factors such as app complexity, features, platform choices, and the location of your development team. Whether you’re building a basic version or a feature-rich platform with live streaming and real-time odds, it’s important to understand the key cost components to plan your investment wisely.

Basic Betting App

Ideal for startups or MVPs (Minimum Viable Products), offering essential betting features like user registration, simple odds display, and basic payment integration.

Estimated Cost: $25,000 – $40,000
Timeline: 2–3 months

Mid-Level Betting App

Includes additional functionality like live betting, admin dashboard, bonus system, and better UI/UX. Offers more stability and flexibility for a growing user base.

Estimated Cost: $40,000 – $80,000
Timeline: 3–5 months

Advanced Betting App Like 188Bet

Includes real-time odds, live streaming, AI-powered suggestions, multi-language/multi-currency support, KYC, high-level security, and extensive backend management tools.

Estimated Cost: $80,000 – $150,000+
Timeline: 5–8 months

Factors That Influence the Cost

Features & Complexity: The more custom features (like in-play betting or virtual casino games), the higher the cost.
Platforms: Building for Android, iOS, and web increases time and budget.
Design & UX: A modern, intuitive interface requires more design hours.
Backend Infrastructure: Real-time betting and live streaming need a strong, scalable backend.
Legal Compliance: Licensing, KYC integration, and responsible gambling tools add both time and cost.
Team Location: Development costs vary depending on where your developers are located (e.g., North America vs. Eastern Europe or Asia).

Why Choose Innosoft Group to Develop a Betting App Like 188Bet?

Innosoft Group has years of hands-on experience building custom iGaming solutions, including sports betting, casino apps, and fantasy sports platforms. We understand the challenges, compliance needs, and performance demands of apps like 188Bet, positioning us among the top sportsbook platform providers in the industry.

Industry Expertise

End-to-End Development

From market research and UI/UX design to backend architecture and post-launch support, we offer full-cycle development services. Whether you’re starting from scratch or scaling an existing idea, we’ve got you covered.

Custom Solutions

We don’t just clone—we customize. Your 188Bet-like app will be tailored to your business goals, user base, and target market. Want crypto support, a custom odds engine, or multi-language features? We can build it.

Regulatory Guidance

Betting apps require strict compliance with licensing, KYC, and responsible gambling practices. Innosoft helps you stay legally compliant while launching confidently in your target regions.

Agile & Transparent Process

We work in agile sprints and keep you involved at every step. With regular updates, clear timelines, and collaborative feedback loops, you always know where your project stands.

Scalable & Secure Architecture

We build platforms that grow with you. Our betting apps are optimized for high traffic, real-time betting, and user security—backed by robust encryption, fraud detection, and scalable infrastructure.

Conclusion

Creating a betting app like 188Bet is a promising venture—but one that requires careful planning, the right technology, and a deep understanding of the industry. In this guide, we’ve walked through everything you need to know: from must-have features and legal requirements to monetization strategies, development steps, and future trends.

As the market continues to grow, success will come to those who balance innovation with compliance. Whether it’s offering personalized betting tips, integrating crypto payments, or creating a standout user experience, staying ahead of the curve is key.

To bring your vision to life, it’s essential to work with developers who understand the unique challenges of the betting industry—especially when it comes to security, scalability, and regulation.