Egyptian startup Instabug, which allows app users and beta-testers to easily report bugs, has hit 25 million end-users in more than 100 countries worldwide.
Launched in 2012, Instabug allows users to offer feedback from within apps. With a simple shake of the iPhone, Instabug captures a screenshot of the app and allows users and beta-testers to hand-free draw to highlight exactly where the bug is.
“And Instabug automatically grabs all the details you need; device, OS, connectivity, console logs and even tracks the user’s steps,” chief executive officer (CEO) Omar Gabr told Disrupt Africa.
“Thousands of apps are already using Instabug to save up to 45 per cent of their time in managing and logging bugs, and to lower their negative reviews up to 80 per cent.”
Gabr said Instabug had spotted a gap in the market when it came to testing apps and obtaining end-user feedback.
“Beta testing and user feedback was a difficult process for both app users and app developer, and there has to be an easier way for people to report bugs and send feedback from within apps,” he said.
That way is Instabug, and the startup has seen significant success so far, winning a number of awards and raising US$300,000 in December 2013 from Cairo Angels, Leap Ventures, Middle East Venture Partners (MEVP) and Google engineer Georges Harik. But it is in user numbers where Instabug has really impressed.
“We target mobile developers so it’s a global product. We’re in more than 100 countries,” says Gabr.
This growing user base has translated into financial benefits as well, with Instabug reporting doubled revenue last quarter. The startup employs the usual software as a service (SaaS) business-to-business (B2B) model, charging users monthly subscriptions.
Managing this global reach can be challenging at times, according to Gabr. The co-founders have had difficulties attending Silicon Valley-based events in the past due to difficulties obtaining visas given the sometimes chaotic situation in Egypt. But the startup continues to connect with developers across the world in spite of geographic difficulties, by engaging through online communities and events.
