Progressive Web Apps (PWA): The Bridge Between Web and Mobile
A Progressive Web App (PWA) is a website that looks and behaves like a mobile app. For many businesses, it's a smarter, more cost-effective alternative to building separate iOS and Android apps.
What Can a PWA Do?
- Offline Access: Users can browse your content even without an internet connection.
- Home Screen Install: Users can add your site to their phone's home screen, complete with an app icon.
- Push Notifications: Re-engage users with timely alerts, just like a native app.
The Business Case for PWAs
1. Lower Development Costs
Instead of three codebases (Web, iOS, Android), you only maintain one. This cuts development and maintenance costs by up to 60%.
2. No App Store Friction
You don't need Apple or Google's approval to launch. Users simply visit your URL and install. No downloads, no updates to manage.
3. Improved SEO
Unlike native apps, which live in closed ecosystems, PWAs are indexable by Google. Your "app" content contributes directly to your domain's SEO authority.
Is a PWA Right for You?
If you are an e-commerce store, a news outlet, or a service platform, a PWA might be your secret weapon. Twitter, Starbucks, and Pinterest all saw massive engagement boosts after launching PWAs. Let's discuss your mobile strategy.