Progressive Web App: the new favourite
When people hear the word 'app', most associate it with native apps – these are applications, that need to be downloaded and installed for a specific platform to be used. However, there are other types of apps nowadays, such as the progressive web app, which has a lot of potential and is expected to grow in popularity in the future.
What is a progressive web app?
Before arguing why these apps will play a significant role in our lives, let's look at what we mean by the term.
A progressive web app, or PWA, is a transition between a web page and a native app. It starts from the technology of the web, i.e., HTML and CSS, but brings the characteristics of a mobile app.
Why is the future bright for PWA?
PWA will revolutionize the world of apps. It has simpler and more user-friendly features than native apps. Of course, it's hard to generalize, as every need is different, but PWA exceeds in many ways. Let's look at its advantages!
One development, many possibilities
It does not need to be developed for all platforms; it only needs to be developed once. This is a significant cost saving compared to duplicate work – if you want to have both an iOS and Android app, that's twice the time and expense.
Updates, solved!
Updates for apps are often a hassle – they need to be installed, they require permissions, and so on. But for web apps, all updates will be automatically visible in the app. This prevents and avoids concerns about version differences.
A limitless range of tests
Since you can easily and quickly change the content and appearance, you can also create A/B tests. In practice, this means that you can try out possible solutions live, and users themselves decide on their effectiveness, rather than the marketing team relying on estimates. This ensures that only the truly viable features and elements are included in the app.
App deployment is a thing of the past
The progressive web app is therefore not tied to any store, nor does it need to be downloaded. It can be accessed simply through the browser, which is a big plus for many users.
Responsive
A common problem with web pages is that the structure cannot adapt to the dimensions of the phone's display. This shouldn't happen with PWAs, as they look good on any screen.
It's like the native app, only better
A characteristic of progressive web apps is that they are very similar to "normal" apps in terms of user experience. They can be navigated in the same way, so you don't have to deviate from your usual practices, just enjoy the benefits.
At your fingertips
Just like native apps, PWAs can be right there on your phone screen, even if they are technically placed there in a different way. These apps don't need to be downloaded, yet they can be fixed on the screen of your mobile so they're always at hand.
All you need is a link
As described above, web apps are not downloaded from the app store. But then how? Simply from the website or via a link. When you first use it, for example, you have to open a link, and you can use the same link to send it to your friends and acquaintances.
Grown into an active relationship
A progressive web app is characterized by the ability to maintain an active relationship with users. One of the most powerful tools is the ability to send push notifications to those who have already contacted the app. This way, it informs followers of discounts, promotions, and events.
Sign in with a few clicks
Securely logging in to apps can sometimes be over-complicated, with dozens of usernames and passwords to keep in mind and recall at the right time. But with PWA, logging in is easy via Facebook or Google user profiles.
It works without WIFI
While most mobile apps can only be accessed when connected to the internet, the progressive web app can even be used when not connected to the web.
When to choose PWA?
You may ask, in which cases should you choose this type of app? Most of all, when you don't have a huge budget and you don't want to pressure your target audience to download yet another app.
Despite the benefits of progressive web apps, you shouldn't overlook the fact that there are drawbacks as well. It doesn't beat native apps in every way. Not in speed, for example, so if that's the default, it's worth going with the native app despite the higher price.
There are also so-called hybrid apps, which combine the advantages of both types. These are web apps with layers adapted to and dependent on different platforms. Their development is in most cases very simple, but they require complex professional skills and can easily face graphical limitations.
All in all, PWA is a new approach to application development that has many advantages and is often the best choice. Interested in web apps? For more information, ask Synerinsoft!
