The debate between progressive web apps (PWAs) and native apps has caught the attention of developers and businesses alike. Will PWAs eventually take over native apps? What sets them apart, and what are their pros and cons? Keep reading to learn more.
According to a Statista report, there are now over six billion smartphone subscriptions globally, with this number expected to grow by millions in the coming years. This presents businesses with a golden chance to use mobile apps to deliver smooth user experiences. At the same time, the rise of PWAs has raised a crucial question: Should businesses choose a PWA or a native app?
Native Apps vs. PWAs (Progressive Web Apps)
Native mobile apps are intuitive applications that can be downloaded from the Google Play or iOS app stores. They are made expressly to take advantage of a particular mobile device's hardware capabilities and provide an interactive user experience. Native applications have been a part of the mobile phone industry since its inception, and we have been utilizing them for a very long time.
Progressive Web Apps, or PWAs, are mobile websites that are primarily made to function inside a web browser. It is multi-platform because it can be designed in languages like CSS, HTML, and JavaScript. Consequently, it combines both a website and a native app. PWA websites can give users experiences that are similar to those of apps.
Examples of PWA and Native Apps
- Twitter Lite: Twitter launched its PWA in 2017, adding features like web push notifications, "Add to Homescreen" prompts, and offline browsing. This resulted in a 75% increase in tweets sent, a 20% drop in bounce rates, and a 65% rise in pages viewed per session.
- Flipkart: India’s leading e-commerce platform introduced its PWA in 2015, seeing a 70% boost in conversion rates, a 40% rise in re-engagement, and users spending three times more time on the site.
- Starbucks: Launched in 2017, Starbucks’ PWA doubled its daily active users and achieved a 23% increase in the variety of orders placed.
Native Apps Examples:
- Instagram: A widely popular app with over 2.3 billion monthly users, Instagram lets people share photos and videos, ranking as the second-most downloaded app globally.
- Uber: This ride-hailing app offers easy ride bookings and generated $31.8 billion in revenue in 2022, marking an impressive 82.62% year-over-year growth.
- Spotify: The top music streaming app has over 205 million premium subscribers. It enables users to stream their favorite tracks and discover new music worldwide.
Pros of Native Apps
A native app that has been optimized correctly provides a number of important advantages versus PWA. The main one is the offline capability. Despite the fact that both native apps and PWAs can give consumers access to the information they need without an Internet connection, native applications take the prize in this segment.
Outstanding Performance
The native applications on the planned devices have the ability to download and save the content components, which speeds up loading. The apps will be more responsive and quick. Such applications make use of the hardware and operating system support of the device, which boosts performance.
Accessing the mobile app development services enables you to obtain native apps that offer a wonderful user experience and operate on devices without any issues. The fact that the codes are written in the platform-specific programming languages makes the apps work more quickly. The apps operate effectively even without network connectivity.
User Experience and User Interface
Native applications are created by Node.Js development companies in India taking into account the specific technical capabilities of the hardware, allowing them to maximize the device's capabilities. Due to the interface's seamless integration with the smartphone, this results in a pleasant user experience.
For several platforms, progressive apps' code can be recycled. The desktop, Android, and iOS editions can all make use of the same functionality and UI framework. Finally, the solution supports three devices rather than just one, and all it took was a small modification to the current code base.
For instance, when it comes to mobile games or messengers, speed and interface are important considerations. A small issue or a slow page load time severely reduces customer satisfaction because users want to access the benefits right away.
Security
Application security is of the utmost importance, and native apps significantly outperform cross-platform ones in this regard. Native applications are more superior and secure and better able to safeguard user data because they give full access to the device on which they are installed. Their structural layout enables the addition of additional security measures like multi-factor authentication. As a result, it lowers the likelihood of dangers and offers maximum data protection.
Simpler Testing
Testing native apps is much simpler because it just involves testing on one platform. When compared to alternative methods of app building, even managing the productivity of the resources requires less work. Every Node.js application development company is well-equipped to deal with issues and provide solutions for a single platform.
Cons of Native Applications for Developers
Nevertheless, there are several drawbacks to native apps, particularly in terms of distribution strategies and development expenses.
Lengthy Downloading Process
The native apps require a number of downloading steps in order to install from the App Store or Play Store. In order to use the application, users must first locate it, understand the terms, then download it. Users occasionally lose patience while installing an app because the download takes so long.
Frequent Updates
Developers must first submit any updates to the app store in the hopes that consumers will become aware of them and update their applications to the most recent versions when a bug in native apps is fixed or a new update is ready to be released. The majority of phones have automatic updates, so this is usually not a problem. However, if a user doesn't have automatic updating enabled (which could be because their storage is almost full), it's possible they won't notice the update, which could cause them to uninstall the app because there are still bugs that haven't been fixed or no new updates have been added.
Development and Maintenance is Expensive
If you use a native app, you will require two distinct teams, one for development and the other for maintenance. It needs to be specifically created for different operating systems. The upkeep of native apps is a time-consuming process; to ensure client happiness, you must regularly check for problems and crashes as well as update with the most recent trends and technology.
Time-Consuming
Since native apps need to be developed for several platforms, this process takes longer than developing other types of apps for any Node.Js development company in India. Codes cannot be reused, therefore if you want to create other versions of the programme, you'll need to employ a different crew. The developers must write scripts specifically for each operating system, which takes a lot of effort.
Pros of Progressive Web Apps
Installation or Manual Updates are Not Needed
There is no need to download the progressive web app for Twitter from the Play Store or the App Store. Users only need to go to mobile.twitter.com to instantly login. When Twitter upgrades the PWA, users don't need to manually install it; all new features and bug fixes are accessible immediately.
Of course, users are not the only ones who gain from smooth upgrades. In addition to delivering updates as frequently as they like without upsetting their users, a company that creates and maintains a PWA should anticipate receiving fewer support inquiries from users still using an outdated app version.
SEO
PWAs have URLs, so Google can index them. It follows that your app won't be dependent on app stores since users can find a PWA quickly utilizing a search engine. Also, you might promote your PWA via a variety of venues, including emails, social media channels, and home pages. Comparatively speaking, this offers a lot more variety than a single app shop.
Quick Installation
PWAs don't require the lengthy and challenging installation process that regular mobile applications do, which dramatically improves user experience. Users can easily and quickly download an app to their devices without going to the App Store or Google Play. It streamlines the procedure and significantly reduces user churn. Users can access an app by clicking on a desktop icon after downloading it.
Some browsers even offer teasers that resemble calls to action when users visit the related websites, enticing them to download these apps. The apps' trustworthiness and credibility can be increased thanks to browsers' built-in functionality. Due to the fact that there is no need for this software to be downloaded on the user's device, the PWA may be immediately accessed using a URL.
Impeccable Offline Operation
Due to their ability to operate in insecure networks or without an internet connection, PWAs are substantially more effective than websites. Thanks to built-in service workers that automatically cache crucial functionality and data, users may see progressive web apps without an internet connection. As a result, there is no need to download the programmes.
It is based on the preservation of data from prior user visits, such as pages. If a user attempts to open a page that they haven't already seen online, an app might show them a special offline page. Having this option gives retailers the opportunity to keep more customers by stopping them from leaving their catalogs.
Cons of Progressive Web Apps
Limited Software and Hardware Support
Several hardware and software platforms still don't support all of PWAs' functions. One of the worries regarding numerous problems is their freshness. For instance, iOS does not currently allow notifications for progressive web apps or home screen shortcuts. Working with PWAs also eliminates access to many cutting-edge features like GPS support, phone cameras, biometrics, etc.
Issues with Legacy Devices
It shouldn't be surprising that PWAs aren't properly supported by older mobile devices and out-of-date web browsers as they've only been available for a short while. Although this issue will unavoidably be resolved in the future, certain businesses might receive complaints from customers as a result of it.
Few Innovations and Functionalities
Progressive web applications are unable to use technical features like Bluetooth or NFC (Near Field Communication). This restricts the directions and paths your app might take and eliminates any opportunity for you to develop a product that makes use of both current and next technological advancements. Additionally, because web app developers aren't paying to have the app available on the App Store, mobile vendors like Apple frequently restrict web apps' access to specific device capabilities and features. It again restricts the kind of app that may be created as a PWA.
Restricted Support for Browsers
Although they have the potential to be cross-platform, PWAs have a primary focus towards Android users. While using other browsers like Edge and Safari, they do not function well. PWA support is currently being developed for these browsers.
Difference Between PWA and Native Apps
| Feature | PWA | Native Apps |
| Cross-Platform Availability | Single app works across multiple platforms | Requires separate apps for different platforms |
| Offline Usage | Limited offline functionality; not all information is displayed offline | Fully functional offline, showing all intended information |
| Updates | Updates are automatic, with no user action needed | Requires users to download and install updates for every change |
| Push Notifications | Limited to certain modern browsers like Chrome, Safari, and Firefox | Fully supports push notifications for engaging users |
| Device Features | Limited adaptability to device features but quicker to develop | Fully utilizes the smartphone's features, offering a seamless experience |
Do Progressive Web Apps Beat Native Apps?
Cost of Developing Progressive Web Apps
The key advantage of PWA is its simplicity in development. Compared to native apps, web apps are easier, faster, and less expensive to produce. Also, it's simpler to manage and maintain. Limitations in the application store do not hinder the development process. Any feature can be controlled, enabled, or disabled. While developing a native mobile app, a bad bug can result in a catastrophe.
You will spend less to create a progressive web app for two key reasons. For starters, since it is a web application, you don't need to design cross-platform versions because they are all the same. Another reason is that it's extremely comparable to conventional web development.
Additional Perks
Libraries, components, and other resources are abundant for web development. Also, you can use any of the well-known javascript frameworks, such as those we discussed in our post. This further cuts down on development time and facilitates the creation of progressive web apps.
Without the use of app stores or other middlemen, PWAs can be accessed and installed quite quickly. Due to the nature of the web, they perform extremely quickly (with all the dynamic content and caching).
The quick user experience offered by PWAs is one of its key advantages. The app opens in less than 5 seconds; users do not need to download and install the solution; it is accessible with only one click.
Is PWA Secure?
As the world becomes increasingly digital, we rely more and more on web applications to access information and carry out everyday tasks. Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) have emerged as a popular solution, promising the best of both worlds - the flexibility of web apps and the functionality of native apps. But are they secure?
In short, yes. PWAs use secure HTTPS protocols, offer offline capabilities, and implement strict security measures to protect user data. However, just like any other technology, there are potential vulnerabilities that must be addressed. This article explores the security benefits and challenges of PWAs, shedding light on how they can be harnessed safely and effectively to enhance the user experience.
Will Progressive Apps Replace Native Apps?
The advancement of Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) has led to speculation about whether they will replace native apps entirely. The answer to this question is not as straightforward as we think. While PWAs offer many benefits such as offline functionality, cost-effectiveness, and ease of development, they still have limitations compared to native apps. These limitations include reduced functionality and performance, limited access to device hardware, and the inability to be distributed through app stores.
Native apps, on the other hand, provide a superior user experience, greater performance, and access to device hardware. They are distributed through app stores, giving them better visibility and discoverability.
So, while PWAs have their advantages and are suitable for certain use cases, they are not likely to replace native apps completely. Native apps will continue to dominate in areas that require a high degree of performance, complex functionality, and access to device hardware. PWAs, on the other hand, will likely continue to be a popular choice for simpler applications and those that do not require access to device-specific features. Ultimately, the decision to choose between PWAs and native apps should be based on the specific needs of the project at hand.
Is PWA the Future?
Let's talk about PWAs' effects across different industries. We've highlighted a few of the fields where PWAs have had a significant difference:
Social Media:
PWA has had a significant impact on social media sites like Twitter and Twitter Lite for smartphones. It contributed to Twitter's website optimisation and saw a 20% drop in bounce rate. They contributed to a 65% increase in pages per session in Twitter Lite.
Online Ordering Applications:
Many individuals use online ordering services to place orders for meals, taxis, and even to complete tasks. Native web applications, however, have always been reliant on network connectivity. By improving the conversion rate and network connectivity of online service providers, PWAs have overcome this issue.
Businesses:
For businesses that have converted from native web applications to advanced web applications, PWAs are causing significant changes in conversion rates. A user can launch an application using PWA with just one button click. Businesses have seen an increase in application usage and go-to-market shipment rates thanks to PWAs.
Progressive Web Applications (PWAs) are supported by browsers like Google Chrome and Opera, while Microsoft Edge, Safari, and Firefox are working to add PWA support. So, progressive web applications have the potential to become web applications of the future, but only partially.
The Future of Progressive Web Apps
PWAs can undoubtedly improve the web experience by blurring the distinction between websites and applications. Only time will be able to determine where PWA will advance the greatest.
PWA has the potential to develop into the ideal fusion of a website and a native app. That is still very far off, though.
How to Select the Right Application for Your Business
A product owner or business creator must first think about the application's function and the needs it is meant to address. Progressive web apps are typically used to create small services where usability and speed are more important than sophisticated features. There is no need to purchase a more expensive native app if all functionality can be accommodated in the PWA.
PWAs can sometimes provide a seamless user experience and a wide range of functions, but not always. The following are the primary circumstances in which choosing a native solution through Node.Js application development is recommended:
- Games that depend on responsiveness;
- Banking and Financial Apps with high security;
- Resource-intensive and device-dependent apps like VR, AR, video chats, and so forth.
We've highlighted the benefits and pitfalls of PWA vs. Native application in this blog post. Given that PWA is a relatively new product, native applications may still provide you with additional advantages.
Conclusion
You should evaluate your objectives and decide what necessary and supplemental functionality you'd like to provide to the end-user before making a final decision about whether to design a web app or a native application. It will probably be less expensive and quicker to build a progressive web application than to build expensive native platforms, provided that the final solution isn't too demanding.
However, it's also possible that PWAs are unable to improve upon the experience offered by already existing applications. The optimum approach for your business aims and objectives can also turn out to be a blend of the two.
The future of mobile applications might be in PWA. With time, they might displace native programs and eventually combine the best features of both websites and native apps.
Contact us to discuss your application requirements to develop a robust application with IConflux– a reliable Node.Js development company in India.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the main difference between PWAs and native apps?
The primary difference lies in their functionality and platform usage. Native apps are platform-specific applications downloaded from app stores, utilizing device-specific hardware and software features. PWAs are web-based apps accessible via browsers, offering a cross-platform experience without needing installation.
2. Are PWAs more cost-effective than native apps?
Yes, PWAs are generally more cost-effective to develop and maintain because they use a single codebase for all platforms. Native apps require separate development efforts for different platforms, increasing development time and cost.
3. Can PWAs fully replace native apps in terms of features?
Not entirely. While PWAs are versatile and provide many app-like experiences, they have limited access to device-specific features like Bluetooth, NFC, and advanced camera capabilities, which native apps fully support.
4. Which is better for offline functionality: PWAs or native apps?
Native apps perform better offline scenarios by storing and displaying all intended content without an internet connection. PWAs have limited offline capabilities and rely on cached data from prior visits.
