Progressive Web Applications

Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) combine the best of both new technology and established best practices to create reliable, accessible, engaging experiences. With an easy opt-in process, they provide a natural-like experience for users.

Progressive Web Applications

Reliable

PWAs should be able to launch and provide meaningful content, regardless of network conditions. The application will determine the level of offline functionality. Some applications can function offline completely, while others display placeholder data that informs the user they are offline. The application should not be broken or rendered inoperable.

Responsive

Progressive Web Applications must be capable of adapting to various screen sizes and orientations. This ensures that all users have a great experience. Good responsive design ensures that your application will work on new devices.

Engage

Native applications are typically more engaging than web apps. An icon on the home screen makes it easy for users to access the app. Push notifications can also be used to alert them of important information. Progressive Web Applications allow users to enjoy the same benefits as web apps.

Secure

Progressive Web Apps have by default security. PWA requires apps to be served over HTTPS in order to function.

What makes the PWA different from responsive web apps?

Responsive websites apps have the same functionality and progressive web apps, except for the site scale. You might be wondering what PWA is and how it differs from responsive web applications. Isn’t PWA just a website? No, or yes. PWAs are opened with a URL that looks like a website. PWAs are not limited to the webpage. The functionality of PWAs is what separates them from responsive web applications. Progressive web apps feel more like native apps and are easier to distinguish from the responsive web.

Why create a PWA

Many companies, particularly those who build apps for internal use will find it prohibitive to develop, test, and maintain applications on multiple platforms. Gartner predicts that 20% of companies will drop their native mobile apps by the end of next year. They believe PWA will be a viable alternative.

One app for every platform

Progressive Web Apps can deliver superior user experiences than native apps. They don’t require separate development teams or need to manage updates and binaries distribution. Focusing your efforts on one app will result in better UX.

Google and Microsoft are big supporters of PWA technologies. PWA compatibility is available on all Android devices. Microsoft is currently building many of its next-generation apps, such as Outlook and Teams, using PWA. Apple will also support this feature in Safari 11.1 or iOS 11.3.

Read Also: 15 websites offering free web developer resources

Who uses PWA already?

Progressive Web Apps are based on existing technologies but they are widely used in the industry. These are some of the most prominent PWA showcases:

Some PWA Apps

1. Housing.com
2. Make My Trip
3. Spotify and many more.

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Amazing for everyone, great for most

PWA’s great feature is that you can roll out the technologies in all browsers, even if they don’t support them. Because all technologies used are progressive in nature, this is possible. Customers who have access to these technologies will enjoy an enhanced experience. However, all customers will still get the same basic experience.

Many companies like Alibaba have proven that focusing on a PWA app rather than having native apps increases conversions and average sales.

Begin by creating a great website experience. You can further enhance it by using PWA tech to reach the majority of users who have it. Your customers will be grateful.