Progressive Web Apps use well-known web technologies such as HTML, CSS, and Javascript, combining them with the power provided by WebAssembly, Web Storage, Service Workers, and Manifests to provide a user-friendly experience without having to download them.
PWAs look like native apps but provide much better results.
Being a fusion between the features of web pages and mobile apps, PWAs are one of the best ways to optimize costs and accelerate development.
Unlike native apps, with PWAs, there is no need to create separate apps for the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. This flexibility is one of the many essential features that got attention when Google began advocating for the widespread adoption of PWAs almost six years ago.
Let's look at the benefits of PWAs and see how they compete with web browsers and native apps.
6 most important advantages of PWAs
- Responsiveness
The PWA layout is responsive - it adjusts to the screens of mobile devices, tablets, or desktops. Responsiveness characteristics depend on the design approach. For example, if PWAs are designed using the popular "block" architecture, blocks are reorganized based on device type, screen size, and orientation.
- Short loading time
Offline accessibility of PWAs is crucial for retailers with online stores. Customers can view products and edit their orders, even without a good Internet connection. Basic features and content remain available, and additional levels and features are downloaded when the quality of the Internet connection allows it.
- Push notifications.
PWA technology offers push notifications for user engagement and business development. They help keep in touch and notify customers even when they are not active, or their screen is locked. Once users agree to receive push notifications, PWAs can send them discounts and promotional offers with various embedded content, from images and gifs to button-shaped icons. Push notifications are more cost-effective than text messages and traditional emails but contain an equally strong call to action.
- Improved security
HTTPS, which is the basic component of PWAs, prevents disclosing or modifying information. Encryption through TLS (Transport Layer Security) ensures data security, thereby preventing any risks related to security issues. The HTTPS protocol promotes security through authentication and protection of transmitted data.
- No Need To Install Updates
Native apps require updates since the files are locally installed on their device; they must be reinstalled when the codebase changes.
PWAs, on the other hand, are hosted in the cloud and accessed via a browser. When the codebase is changed, a new version of the application is made available to the user the next time they interact with it, without the need for reinstallation.
- Good performance in poor network conditions
PWAs provide better performance than traditional web applications; they run faster, so users don't have to interact with a slow interface. In addition, users don't have to install PWAs, which significantly increases their popularity.
Choosing between PWAs or native apps requires careful research and should align with your company's business goals.
Sodeira Solutions' mobile experts help clients make the right choice for their organization. We have accumulated deep experience in PWA development and continue to invest in PWA implementations.
We actively manage a handful of PWAs that we've built over the past few years, and we're always happy to assist you! If you'd like to check out PWAs in action or get a quote on building your own PWA, simply drop us a line through the website contact form.
