Apps to Make Money in 2025: The Complete Guide to the Best Mobile Income Alternatives

The flexibility of remote work has transformed the way people generate income. Instead of being stuck in an office from 9 am to 6 pm, many Brazilians have discovered that a smartphone can be a powerful tool to create multiple sources of income. With the evolution of digital platforms, dozens of apps have emerged to make money, each offering different opportunities — whether through content creation, investments, freelance work, or affiliate marketing.

This article provides a detailed analysis of the best alternatives to turn your free time into significant income during 2025.

Content Platforms: Monetizing Your Creativity

TikTok: Rapid Growth and Scalable Earnings

TikTok has established itself as one of the largest revenue generators for visual content creators. The platform offers multiple monetization methods beyond the traditional:

• Rewards for Views: System that rewards creators based on reach and interaction
• TikTok Shop: E-commerce integration allowing product sales with commissions on transactions
• Sponsored Campaigns: Brands pay directly for promotional content

Requirements and Access:

• Minimum of 10,000 followers for initial monetization
• Payouts via PayPal or bank transfer within up to 30 days
• Available on Android and iOS

YouTube: The Most Established Platform for Creators

With over 2 billion active users, YouTube remains the top choice for those looking to build a long-term career in the digital universe. Revenue opportunities are varied:

• **( AdSense System): Passive income from advertising views
• Super Chat and Super Stickers: Direct donations from viewers during live streams
• Channel Subscriptions: Exclusive access for paying members
• Marketing Partnerships: Promotion of third-party products and services

Eligibility Conditions:

• At least 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 hours of watch time in the last 12 months
• Monthly payments via Google AdSense
• Compatible with Android and iOS

Kwai: Strong Alternative for the Brazilian Market

Kwai gained popularity mainly in the North and Northeast regions, offering a competitive remuneration structure:

• Rewards Program: Direct payment for views and engagement
• Paid Viral Campaigns: Challenges that distribute bonuses among participants
• Brand Partnerships: Opportunities for sponsored advertising
• Daily Bonuses: Incentive system for active users

Practical Information:

• Transfers via Pix or digital wallets (within 7 business days)
• Available for Android and iOS
• Ideal for beginners seeking quick monetization

Medium: Income for Writers and Experts

Those who prefer to express knowledge through writing find Medium a legitimate monetization platform. The model operates through the Partner Program, which distributes revenue based on:

• Reading time of articles
• Engagement of platform subscribers
• Content quality and relevance

Features:

• Monthly payments via Stripe or PayPal
• Ideal for topics like finance, technology, entrepreneurship
• Builds authority and credibility for the author
• Available on Android and iOS

Affiliate Marketing: Commissions Per Sale

Shopee: Competitive Commissions and Reliable Structure

Shopee’s affiliate program offers some of the most attractive commission rates in the market, reaching up to 28% per sale:

• Free registration directly on the platform
• Automatic generation of personalized links
• Compatible with Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and Facebook
• Real-time tracking of conversions

Payment and Requirements:

• Transfer via Pix in 3 to 5 business days
• No initial investment
• Transparent and established structure for years
• Apps available for Android and iOS

Temu: Affiliate Program with Extra Bonuses

Although newer in Brazil, Temu has implemented an aggressive referral system:

• Commissions on sales through personal links
• Campaigns with rewards based on number of clicks
• Additional bonuses for registrations and invites
• Personalized discount coupons for sharing

Payment Methods:

• Pix, PayPal, or credit within the app
• Varies depending on the campaign
• Android and iOS

Freelance Work: Opportunities for Continuous Income

Workana Brazil: Latin America’s Largest Freelance Marketplace

Workana connects professionals with companies seeking specialized services:

• Design, writing, digital marketing, translation, and IT
• Payment protection system (escrow)
• Presentable portfolio to attract clients
• Projects in Portuguese

Access and Security:

• Payments via Payoneer, bank account, or PayPal
• Web platform and Android app
• Suitable for both beginners and experienced professionals

99Freelas: 100% Brazilian Platform

Created specifically for the national market, 99Freelas offers:

• Fully Portuguese interface
• Local support and service in Portuguese
• Direct price negotiation with clients
• Wide range of categories (writing, design, programming, marketing)

Features:

• Transfers via Pix after client approval
• Web platform and Android
• Transparency and ease of use
• Payments in reais

Criteria for Choosing the Best Apps to Make Money

1. Compatibility With Your Skills

Success begins when you align the app with what you truly master. Visual creators thrive on TikTok and Kwai; writers find value in Medium; sellers leverage affiliate programs; technical professionals earn more on Workana.

2. Reputation and Payment History

Established platforms like YouTube, Shopee, and Workana have proven records of punctual payments. Check real user reviews before investing time.

3. Fee and Commission Structure

Each platform retains a different percentage. Compare the net amount you will actually receive, not just the gross rate offered.

4. Speed and Withdrawal Methods

Some apps pay within 3 business days; others take 30 days. Consider your cash flow needs when choosing.

5. Ease of Use and Support

Apps with active support in Portuguese and intuitive interfaces reduce frustrations and long-term issues.

Strategy to Maximize Multiple Earnings

The most effective approach is not relying on a single app but diversifying:

• Short Term: Start with affiliate platforms (Shopee, Temu) that generate quick revenue
• Medium Term: Build presence on social networks (TikTok, Kwai) while growing your audience
• Long Term: Invest in content on YouTube or Medium that provides continuous passive income

Combining multiple sources reduces dependence on one platform and maximizes earning potential.

Final Considerations: Apps to Make Money in 2025

The market for money-making apps continues to expand, with new opportunities regularly emerging. The key to success is not only choosing the right platforms but maintaining consistency, quality, and adapting to each algorithm’s changes.

Dedication, creativity, and discipline turn hours of remote work into real earnings. Whether through content creation, affiliate marketing, or freelance services, 2025 offers a genuine range of possibilities for those seeking financial independence and professional flexibility.

Start by testing platforms that best align with your skills, monitor performance metrics, and adjust your strategy based on results — this is the path to turning your phone into a genuine income-generating machine.