Building the UK’s top-rated driving theory app
Unique users
10,000+App Store rating
4.9 / 5App Store rank
#5 in Education (UK)THE CHALLENGE
How to rebuild a high-traffic EdTech app while preserving its unique voice?
Splink Industries approached Relevant Software to take over the development of My Theory Test by James May, a mobile app built to help learner drivers prepare for and pass the official UK theory test. Although the product carried strong brand recognition and featured a well-known ambassador, its codebase, originally developed by another vendor, had major architectural flaws. Frequent technical failures, slow performance, and a deteriorating user experience led to a visible drop in satisfaction and retention.
With a product that no longer met modern usability standards, Splink needed more than minor updates. They required a development partner who could not only stabilize the platform but also create the foundation for future growth.
Relevant Software took full ownership of the development process. The first priority involved restoring platform reliability, improving performance, and rebuilding trust among current users. This required deep refactoring of the codebase, removal of weak logic, and reinforcement of core functions across all device types.
Once the app regained stability, the project shifted toward expansion. Splink planned to introduce a free Android version, modernize outdated features in the paid apps, and introduce new educational tools to better support learner progress. Our team needed to ensure the platform was consistent with the tone, values, and personality of the James May brand.
Cassian HarrisonCo-founder of Splink IndustriesThe quality of work that Relevant has been able to do for us has been absolutely the standard that we need—incredibly effective. You know how difficult it is to build a successful app. But, as a result of hard work, our app is now consistently in the top 10 of the best-selling paid apps in the UK, constantly bringing great results. I’m still excited.
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Book a free consultationTHE SOLUTION
Mobile product rebuild for long-term stability, feature expansion, and cross-platform growth
Personalized training plan
Users set their theory test date during onboarding. Based on that input, the app creates a day-by-day study plan that ensures complete coverage of all required material within the available timeframe. This approach adapts to each user’s schedule and helps improve retention through structured repetition.
Quizzes
The app provides a wide range of topic-specific quizzes that test user knowledge on road signs, hazard awareness, braking distances, and general driving rules. These quizzes reinforce learning through immediate feedback and detailed explanations.
Content purchases
The app offers premium learning modules as optional in-app purchases. These include additional study resources, deeper test insights, and bonus content designed to support advanced preparation.
Mock tests
Full-length mock tests replicate the official DVSA test format, including timing and scoring. These tests help users measure their readiness and reduce stress before the real exam.
Interactive video content
Hazard perception videos present real driving scenarios. Users tap when they detect potential danger, then review expert feedback from James May to reinforce critical thinking and situational awareness.
Achievements
The app unlocks rewards when users reach learning milestones, complete sections, or pass mock tests. These achievements build motivation and offer a clear view of progress throughout the journey.
THE RESULT
3x increase in Android app adoption after launch
The launch of the free Android version drove a threefold increase in user acquisition, significantly expanding the app’s presence in the UK learner driver market.
Reduced support requests due to improved performance
Improved stability and UI clarity led to a noticeable drop in support tickets, easing the client’s operational load.
One of the best-selling paid apps in the UK
Every month, over 1,300 users successfully pass their DVSA test, solidifying the app’s position as one of the UK’s best-selling paid apps.
THE CLIENT’S REQUEST
- Stabilize a legacy mobile product
- Modernize UI/UX without disrupting active users
- Launch a free Android version to expand reach
- Maintain consistent quality across multiple platforms
WHAT WE DID
✓ Refactored unstable legacy code and improved maintainability
✓ Redesigned key flows and features in premium content that can be bought through in-app purchases.
✓ Delivered a free Android version to increase accessibility
✓ Established a robust CI/CD pipeline and long-term support strategy
Cassian HarrisonCo-founder of Splink IndustriesWorking with you guys has been fantastic. The level of expertise of your development team is as good as the people that we get in the UK. It’s more challenging to find people of that quality here.
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