Passive income apps have become a popular way to earn extra money with minimal effort. Whether you're looking to make a few bucks on the side or build a steady stream of income, there are plenty of apps available for both Android and iOS users. In this article, we’ll explore the best passive income apps for 2025, highlighting their features, benefits, and how they can help you earn money effortlessly.
What Are Passive Income Apps?
Passive income apps allow users to earn money with little ongoing effort after an initial setup. These apps leverage activities like investing, renting out assets, completing microtasks, or even sharing your internet bandwidth. They’re perfect for those who want to supplement their income without committing to a second job.
Top Passive Income Apps for Android & iOS
1. Honeygain
Best for: Sharing unused internet bandwidth
Honeygain lets you earn passive income by sharing your internet connection. Businesses use this bandwidth for tasks like web scraping and market research. Simply install the app, let it run in the background, and earn credits that can be converted to cash via PayPal or cryptocurrency.
- Key Features: Easy setup, runs in the background, supports multiple devices.
- Earning Potential: $5–$50 per month, depending on bandwidth and location.
- Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS.
- Pros: Truly passive, no active participation needed.
- Cons: Earnings depend on internet speed and location.
2. Swagbucks
Best for: Surveys and microtasks
Swagbucks is a versatile app that offers multiple ways to earn, including surveys, watching videos, and shopping online. While some tasks require effort, you can set it up to earn passively through cashback on purchases or referral bonuses.
- Key Features: Surveys, cashback, referral program.
- Earning Potential: $10–$100 per month with consistent use.
- Platforms: Android, iOS.
- Pros: Variety of earning methods, reliable payouts.
- Cons: Some tasks are time-consuming.
3. Acorns
Best for: Micro-investing
Acorns rounds up your everyday purchases to the nearest dollar and invests the spare change into a diversified portfolio. It’s an excellent app for beginners looking to dip their toes into investing without large upfront costs.
- Key Features: Round-up investing, automated portfolios, cashback with partnered brands.
- Earning Potential: Returns vary based on market performance.
- Platforms: Android, iOS.
- Pros: Low barrier to entry, automated investing.
- Cons: Monthly fees ($3–$9) may eat into small earnings.
4. Fundrise
Best for: Real estate investing
Fundrise allows you to invest in real estate with as little as $10. The app pools your money with other investors to fund real estate projects, earning you dividends from rental income or property appreciation.
- Key Features: Low minimum investment, diversified real estate portfolios.
- Earning Potential: 8–12% annual returns (based on historical data).
- Platforms: Android, iOS.
- Pros: Accessible real estate investing, passive dividends.
- Cons: Returns are not guaranteed, long-term commitment.
5. Rakuten
Best for: Cashback on shopping
Rakuten offers cashback when you shop at partnered retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target. Simply activate the app before shopping, and earn a percentage of your purchase back, paid via PayPal or check.
- Key Features: Cashback at 2,500+ stores, browser extension for ease.
- Earning Potential: 1–40% cashback per purchase.
- Platforms: Android, iOS.
- Pros: Easy to use, stacks with credit card rewards.
- Cons: Requires spending to earn.
6. Sweatcoin
Best for: Earning by staying active
Sweatcoin converts your steps into a digital currency that can be spent on goods, services, or donated to charity. It’s a fun way to earn passively while staying healthy.
- Key Features: Tracks outdoor steps, redeemable rewards, referral bonuses.
- Earning Potential: $5–$20 per month in rewards.
- Platforms: Android, iOS.
- Pros: Encourages fitness, no upfront cost.
- Cons: Limited redemption options.
How to Choose the Right Passive Income App
When selecting a passive income app, consider the following:
- Effort Level: Some apps, like Honeygain, require no active participation, while others, like Swagbucks, may need occasional input.
- Payout Method: Check if the app pays via PayPal, bank transfer, or gift cards, and ensure it suits your preferences.
- Time Commitment: Apps like Acorns and Fundrise are long-term investments, while Rakuten and Sweatcoin offer quicker rewards.
- Risk: Investing apps carry market risks, so assess your comfort level before diving in.
Tips to Maximize Earnings
- Combine Apps: Use multiple apps to diversify income streams. For example, pair Honeygain for passive bandwidth sharing with Rakuten for shopping cashback.
- Refer Friends: Many apps offer referral bonuses, boosting your earnings.
- Stay Consistent: For apps like Sweatcoin or Swagbucks, regular use increases rewards.
- Monitor Fees: Be aware of subscription fees (e.g., Acorns) to ensure they don’t outweigh your earnings.
Passive income apps for Android and iOS provide an accessible way to earn extra money in 2025. Whether you’re sharing bandwidth with Honeygain, investing spare change with Acorns, or earning cashback with Rakuten, these apps make it easy to build income streams with minimal effort. Start with one or two apps that align with your lifestyle, and watch your earnings grow over time.
Disclaimer: Earnings vary based on usage, location, and market conditions. Always research and understand risks before investing.