Now small businesses can also jump into the e-commerce world and take part in the app revolution. Progressive web apps (PWA) are an affordable option which combines mobile app and web development features.
Steve Jobs first shed light on this concept in 2007 with the idea of centralizing apps in one platform (Safari browser) – but with the launch of the App Store, it came to a halt. In 2015, Frances Berriman and Alex Russell brought the concept to life, and it gained traction.
Our agency that provides web application development in London is well-versed in the field of PWA and is ready to take you through the most relevant aspects of this app development approach.
Table of Contents
What Is a Progressive Web App
Progressive Web Application (PWA) is a website that feels like an app. In other words, it is a type of web app that works both as a web page (it is available and searchable in browsers) and a native-like mobile app (it comprises beloved app features – it is fast, it works offline, it is installable, and it sends push notifications).
PWA are quick to build and easy to maintain. What is more, it is simple to upgrade and installable on any device thanks to its modern APIs.
Main Features
Progressive
It works on any device and takes advantage of every available feature.
Responsiveness
Progressive web apps adapt to any screen size of any device without changing their behaviour.
Installable
Statistics show that users prefer installed apps to using the browser to visit a brand’s official websites. After all, an icon is more immediate than typing or clicking on URLs every time you want to access the content. Progressive web apps allow users to have a normal app experience as they can be downloaded and installed on the home screen.
Independent Connectivity
Unlike web apps, PWA are functional with low Internet connectivity or no signal at all. This keeps the user engaged and in contact with the app.
Discoverability
Progressive web apps have SEO value because they are websites. As websites, they are ranked on search engines. This is a huge advantage that you cannot find on native apps, as it can help generate more traffic to your PWA.
Appearance
The more a progressive web app looks like a native app, the more users will be interested in it. It is thus important that PWA have native app features, such as an app icon.
Cross-platform
PWA are cross-platform apps, which means they work on every operating system available (iOS, Android, Windows, etc.)
Re-engaging
Users are more likely to return to a platform in the form of a mobile app than a website. Progressive web apps act and work as a native app not only by being installable on the home screen but also by sending push notifications, accessing device hardware, and more. This set of features keeps the user coming to your PWA.
PWA Advantages
Fast and Lightweight
PWA load faster and are smaller in size compared to native apps.
Independent In App Update Process
You do not have to enter the App Store to make an update.
Smaller Development Cost
Developing a native app requires writing codes for every operating system, which is a costly process. PWA use common programming languages and only require one codebase, as they are cross-platform.
Final Thoughts
Progressive web apps are not a new concept, but they are a concept capable of transforming the app development scene.
By combining features of a high-quality approach (native app) and a functional approach (web app), progressive web apps represent a significant advancement in the business app world.
