PWA (progressive web app)
A PWA is a website that can be added to a phone's home screen, partly works on a weak connection and behaves like an app. Nobody has to download it from a store. One codebase serves web and mobile, but access to some device features is limited.
What is a PWA?
PWA stands for Progressive Web App. It is a website that behaves like an app. It sits on the home screen as an icon, opens full screen, and pages you have already opened can still show on a weak connection.
Here is an everyday case. A restaurant has an ordering site. A customer visits and the browser offers to add it to the home screen. Next time, they tap the icon and go straight to the menu. They never download anything from a store or wait for an update. When you change the site, everyone sees the new version.
How does it work?
A PWA has three parts: a secure https connection, a manifest file that sets the app's name and icon, and a service worker that runs in the background and caches pages. Together they let the browser install the site like an app. There are limits. Access to some device features and notifications depends on the operating system and browser. If you need to be listed in the app stores, a PWA alone is not enough.
A PWA starts with a site that works on every screen, as covered in responsive design. We compare store app options in native or Flutter. We help you choose the right route on our mobile app development page.
Frequently asked questions
Can a PWA replace a store app?
For some jobs, yes. Apps that show content, take forms or orders often do fine as a PWA. Apps that rely heavily on device features, or must be listed in the stores, need a store app.
Do PWAs work on iPhone?
Yes, they can be added to the home screen through Safari. Support for some features, such as notifications, depends on the iOS version. Test on your audience's devices before you decide.
Can my current website become a PWA?
Often yes, if it runs on https and works well on phones. We add a manifest file and a service worker, and agree with you which pages should open offline.
Sources
- 01 Progressive web apps · MDN Web Docs