I'd like to develop a custom chat app in iOS. However, since most chat apps have similar features, are there services that offer these already?

Developing a custom chat app is a very good idea in terms that popular chat apps like Whatsapp have recently been in news due to user data privacy concerns and the 2 next most popular apps came into the limelight i.e. Signal & Telegram.

Regarding the app having similar features, it is important to note that though the base features of all the apps are the same majority of the chat apps offer something different than their competitors to make them stand apart.

Similarly, if you are planning to develop a custom chat app then there must be a feature or user experience your app must offer that makes it stand apart from the competitors.

For Example,

1. Whatsapp offers payment within app services and Whatsapp business for business chats

2. Signal is a Non-profit organization so it offers the user data privacy that most organizations only claim.

3. Telegram offers a highly advanced feature for a chat app. Telegram supports creators in community building on Telegram.

If you are looking for custom app development then the best way to move ahead is by hiring professionals or a mobile app development agency.

Mobile App Development services that offer a chat app development

Depending on your country of origin I am sure you might be able to get multiple requests for your chat app development service requirement but in this digital age location of origin is no longer a barrier.

I have been serving in Indian based mobile app development agency for more than the last 8 years and it might come as a surprise that our majority of customers from a total of 950+ are from the USA or Europe or Australia.

So location is no longer a barrier for mobile app development services. We have prepared an article on the cost, features, monetization methods, and factors to consider while developing in an article which you can refer to below.

https://www.webcluesinfotech.com/cost-to-develop-a-chat-app/