A website that you can put on your home screen, without an app store.
A progressive web app is a website that behaves like an app: you can put it on your home screen, it works partly offline and can send notifications. There is no app store and no installation required. The limit lies with deep access to the device, where a real app goes further.
IN COMMON LANGUAGE
App features website
Technically it remains a website. What a PWA adds is a service layer that stores files locally, allowing them to open without a connection and load instantly.
This is often precise enough for business applications. A technician who completes work orders on location needs offline; it doesn't need access to Bluetooth peripherals.
WHY IT MATTERS
PWA or real app
A PWA is significantly cheaper: one version for all devices, no app store approval, and updates that come through immediately without users having to do anything.
A real app is needed for heavy graphic applications or deep integration with the device. This is not the case for most business software.
- One version for all devices — no separate construction per platform.
- No app store approval — updates come through immediately.
- Works offline — for on-site input.
- Installable — icon on the home screen.
- Border: deep device access — that requires a real app.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
More about a progressive web app
Does a PWA work on iPhone?
Yes, with limitations. You can install and work offline; some notification features are more limited than on Android. For business applications this is usually not a blocker, but test it before you build on it.
Is a PWA in the app store?
Not standard, and that is usually an advantage: no approval process and no commission. It can be packed if you really want to be in the store.
Is it cheaper than an app?
Usually large. You build once instead of for iOS and Android separately, and the maintenance is that of a website instead of two apps.
CONTINUE READING
Of course, continue reading about this subject.
App convenience without appstore?
Tell who will use it and where. We will tell you whether a PWA is sufficient or whether you really need an app.