What is a PWA

Progressive Web Apps (PWA) are a technology that combines the best of web applications and native apps. They provide users with an app-like experience directly from a browser without the need to download from an app store.

But what exactly is a PWA, and how does it differ from traditional websites and native apps?

Read on for an in-depth explanation.

What is a PWA?

A Progressive Web App (PWA) is a web application that leverages modern web technologies to deliver an experience similar to a native app—apps that you install from Google Play, the App Store, etc.

PWAs can be accessed via a browser and installed on the user’s device, making them easy to distribute and available without relying on app stores like Google Play or the App Store.

Below are some features that PWAs enable:

• Responsive design: PWAs work on all devices, regardless of screen size, as they are built with responsive design principles.
• Offline support: By using a technology called service workers, PWAs can function partially offline.
• Push notifications: Allow businesses to engage users in the same way native apps do.
• Standalone: Can run in a full window without browser UI, making it feel like a standard app.
• Other features: There are many other possibilities, such as using the camera and scanner, with capabilities constantly expanding.

PWA vs. Website

A standard website is accessible through a browser and requires an internet connection to function.

PWAs go a step further by offering features that regular websites cannot, including:

• Offline functionality: While regular websites stop working without an internet connection, PWAs can deliver content using cached data. However, some elements might still depend on the internet.
• App-like experience: PWAs feel like apps with smooth transitions and quick response times. They can also run standalone—in their own window without browser buttons, etc.
• Installation: PWAs can be installed directly on the home screen, which regular websites cannot do. In some cases, they install like any other app (e.g., Android with Chrome).
• Access: A PWA has access to built-in phone features, and these capabilities are continuously improving.

Different PWAs integrate the features mentioned above as needed for their specific use case.

PWA vs. Native App

Native apps are developed for specific platforms like iOS or Android and require downloads from an app store. PWAs, on the other hand, offer several advantages over native apps:

Advantages and Disadvantages of PWAs

A Progressive Web App (PWA) combines the strengths of native apps and traditional websites but also has its limitations. Below we outline the pros and cons of PWAs compared to both apps and regular websites.

Advantages of PWAs

• Quick and easy installation: A PWA can be installed directly from the browser without needing to download via an app store. This makes the process faster and more user-friendly compared to native apps.
• Cross-platform: PWAs work across different devices and operating systems, providing a unified solution, unlike apps that require separate versions for iOS and Android.
• Lower costs: Since PWAs require only one development process, they are cheaper to develop and maintain compared to native apps.
• Offline support: Using caching, a PWA can provide access to content even when the user is offline. This is a clear advantage over regular websites that require an internet connection.
• No distribution restrictions: PWAs can be accessed and installed outside of app stores, making them easier to distribute and free from app store requirements and fees.
• Quick updates: Updates happen automatically via the browser, so users always have the latest version without needing to download an update as required for apps.
• Better SEO: As a web application, a PWA can be indexed by search engines, helping increase visibility—a clear advantage over apps that are not visible on Google.
• More features than websites: A PWA offers more native app capabilities than a website.
• Standalone mode: A PWA can run as a standalone application, providing the feel of a real app rather than a website.
• Installation: A PWA can be installed, unlike a regular website, helping keep users engaged.

Disadvantages of PWAs

• Limited hardware access: While PWAs can use features like GPS and cameras, they often have limited access to advanced hardware such as biometric sensors, NFC, or Bluetooth, which native apps can fully utilize.
• Limitations on iOS: On iOS devices, PWAs are less functional as they cannot send push notifications and have limited offline functionality compared to Android. However, improvements are expected over time.
• Lower performance: Since PWAs run in a browser, they cannot match the performance of native apps, especially for complex functions and heavy animations. However, they still feel more app-like than websites.
• Branding and credibility: An app in an app store can create greater trust, as users are accustomed to downloading apps from official stores. PWAs lack this advantage.
• Dependent on browser support: The functionality of a PWA depends on the browser’s capabilities. Not all browsers support all features, and there may be variations between platforms.

How to Install a PWA?

The installation process for a PWA depends on the device and browser:

On Android

• Google Chrome: Visit the PWA website, click "Add to Home Screen," and the app will install like a regular app.
• Other browsers: Installation works as a shortcut that places an icon on the home screen.

On iOS

iOS has restrictions that prevent PWAs from being installed as apps. However, users can add a shortcut to the home screen by selecting "Share" and then "Add to Home Screen" in Safari.

On Windows and Mac

• Windows: Users can install PWAs via Microsoft Edge by clicking the installation icon in the address bar.
• Mac: Installation works similarly through browsers like Chrome or Edge, but requires manual shortcut setup.

Installation Button

It is possible to create a custom installation button that can be styled as desired. Unfortunately, iOS does not support installations at the time of writing this article, so a guide is usually displayed instead.

The option to create a custom button allows for improved user experience and clearer design tailored to your needs.

About PWAs

PWAs are not a new concept, but significant progress has been made since 2020 in this area. Features are continuously improving, and major tech companies like Microsoft and Google are leading the way, while Apple is moving more slowly.

Progressive Web Apps are easier to develop than native apps but require slightly more setup than regular websites, placing their price range between the two.

Nevertheless, progress has been made across the board, and even more possibilities are expected in the future as the focus shifts toward PWAs. The main challenge right now is for Apple and Google to find alternative ways to monetize app installations, such as a PWA shop.

Should You Use a PWA?

PWA technology is a powerful solution for businesses looking to combine the benefits of websites and apps. They are cost-effective, easy to maintain, and provide a user-friendly experience across devices.

However, you should consider whether it makes sense for your users to be able to install your website/web app. PWAs are especially relevant if users return multiple times, if you want to utilize phone hardware like cameras, or if you want to enable push notifications.

If you are considering a PWA, Flex4B’s system supports PWAs.

It offers two options:
- A dedicated PWA, which can include pages and products different from your main site
- Enabling your existing site/shop as a PWA

There are several configuration options, including the ability to add a dedicated button.

Contact Flex4Business ApS to learn more.

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