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Progressive web application vs Native apps- Complete Business Guide

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Tolu Folayan

May 13, 2022

"It's working great! People can easily access our services from multiple devices; what more do we need?" said every person who, at one point in time, was asked if a mobile application was necessary for their existing web application. However, "working great" doesn't always mean "future-proof." There are further actions you need to take to ensure you have a responsive website that is not just accessible across several devices but enough to meet the evolving demands of today's users.

This is where the debate between Progressive Web Applications (PWAs) and Native Apps takes center stage. As technology advances, the user experience becomes paramount, and businesses must decide whether to embrace the seamless integration of PWAs or the performance-driven nature of Native Apps.

In the following sections, we will discuss the key differences between PWAs and Native Apps, exploring their advantages, examples, limitations, and helping you make an informed decision based on your business objectives and user requirements. Whether your goal is to enhance or streamline your development process, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of PWAs and Native Apps is crucial in making the right choice for your digital strategy.

Table of Content

Examples of PWA vs NA
PWA Pros and cons
NA Pros and cons
which should you choose & Use cases

Examples of Progressive Apps

Here are 10 popular examples of progressive web applications:

1. Pinterest:

Pinterest's decision to adopt a Progressive Web App (PWA) stemmed from their strategic focus on international growth, particularly on the mobile web. Recognizing the limitations of their old, sluggish web experience, which converted only 1% of unauthenticated mobile users into sign-ups, logins, or native app installs, Pinterest saw a significant opportunity to enhance user engagement. In just three months, they successfully rebuilt their mobile web platform using technologies like React, Redux, and webpack. The results were impressive, with a 40% increase in time spent on the platform, a 44% rise in user-generated ad revenue, and a remarkable 60% improvement in core engagements. This transition to a PWA allowed Pinterest to deliver a faster, more responsive, and user-friendly experience, ultimately driving substantial improvements in key business metrics.

2. Tinder:

Tinder, originally a mobile-only application, has expanded its user experience by embracing a Progressive Web App (PWA)-powered web platform. Contrary to expectations, the PWA web application, which is significantly smaller in size compared to its native counterpart, demonstrated impressive results within just three months of its launch. Tinder users exhibited increased engagement metrics on the web-based app, including more swipes, higher message activity, frequent profile edits, and longer session times. This success challenges the notion of overestimating the importance of native apps while highlighting the potential of PWA applications. The efficient development process, powered by React, allowed Tinder to quickly build and deploy their PWA, showcasing that a well-executed web-based solution can outperform native apps in terms of user interaction and overall experience.

3. Starbucks:

Starbucks embarked on incorporating Progressive Web App (PWA) technology to enhance its web functionality for universal access. In 2015, they introduced a mobile ordering app for iOS, with plans to expand website capabilities. The key requirement was offline functionality, and PWA excelled in meeting this need. Starbucks's PWA application, at 99.84% smaller than their native iOS app (233 kB vs. 148 MB), became a compact yet powerful solution, available on both Android and iOS platforms. This successful adoption of PWA highlights its efficiency in providing a reliable and accessible user experience for a renowned brand like Starbucks.

4. Flipkart:

Flipkart, a major Indian e-commerce platform, initially adopted an app-only approach in 2015 but later reversed its decision in favor of Progressive Web Apps (PWAs). The introduction of Flipkart Lite, a PWA, resulted in significant improvements over their previous mobile site, including a 3x increase in time spent on the site, a 40% higher re-engagement rate, a 70% higher conversion rate for users adding the app to their homescreen, and a 3x lower data usage.

5. Aliexpress:

AliExpress, a global B2C online retail giant, faced challenges in optimizing its mobile website experience compared to its mobile apps. To address this, they developed a cross-platform Progressive Web App (PWA) for native-like performance within users' browsers. The results were remarkable, with a 104% increase in conversion for new users across all browsers, an 82% increase in iOS conversion rate, users visiting 2x more pages per session, and a 74% increase in time spent per session.

6. Google Maps:

Google Maps Go, designed to cater to low-end devices and aligned with the lightweight Android OS - Android Go, has achieved notable success. With over 500 million downloads, according to Play Store statistics, Google Maps Go offers all the expected features of Google Maps services. Google's broader strategy includes developing Go versions of various products, such as Gmail Go, YouTube Go, Assistant Go, and more. This approach demonstrates Google's commitment to making its services accessible on low-end devices and in regions with limited connectivity, showcasing the effectiveness of Progressive Web App (PWA) technology in reaching a wide user base.

7. Facebook:

Recognizing the dominance of mobile usage among its user base, Facebook strategically embraced Progressive Web App (PWA) technology, officially relaunching their PWA web application in 2019. With a substantial 81.8% of users accessing Facebook solely through mobile phones, the PWA approach aimed at providing a consistent experience across various devices. Simultaneously, in a significant move, Facebook introduced a Beta version of their desktop application, powered by PWA and optimized for Microsoft Edge. User reviews highlighted also improved performance compared to standard browser access. This dual approach reflects Facebook's commitment to exploring the potential of PWA technology, delivering seamless experiences on both mobile and desktop platforms, and adapting to evolving user preferences.

8. Forbes:

In 2016, Forbes, a prominent global media company and international magazine, faced challenges with a cumbersome user experience across their web platform, prompting Google to flag them for 'failing' ads. Seeking a transformative solution, Forbes introduced a Progressive Web App (PWA)-powered website in January 2017, initially rolling it out to a portion of their global traffic. According to Salah Zalatimo, Forbes' Head of Product and Tech, the transition to PWA resulted in remarkable improvements. The PWA brought about a substantial up to 40% increase in time per session, a 15% boost in pages viewed per session, and a noteworthy 20% decrease in users leaving after reading only a quarter of an article. Impressions per session rose by 10%, and the loading speed saw a dramatic improvement from 6.5 seconds to just 2.5 seconds, reflecting an impressive 160% decrease. Forbes' success story underscores the significant impact PWA technology can have on user engagement, page views, and overall website performance.

9. Trivago:

Trivago, a leading hotel search engine, transitioned to a Progressive Web App (PWA) in 2017 due to a growing mobile user base. The PWA, available in 33 languages across 55 countries, saw over 500,000 users adding it to their homescreens. Engagement increased by 150%, with users making an average of 2 repeat visits compared to 0.8 on the old mobile website. The PWA also achieved a remarkable 97% increase in clickouts to hotel offers. Notably, 67% of users who utilized the offline functionality continued browsing the platform. Trivago's PWA adoption therefore proved effective in enhancing user engagement and accessibility across diverse regions.

10. Uber:

Uber's global expansion strategy prompted the need for a mobile web version of their platform that could deliver a satisfactory user experience, especially in areas with low-end devices or poor internet connections like 2G networks. Recognizing the limitations of their native apps in such scenarios, Uber's Web Platform Team created "Moo-ber," or m.uber, as the mobile web solution. To optimize performance on 2G networks, the team leveraged Progressive Web App (PWA) technology, resulting in a remarkably lightweight application.

Examples of Native apps

Here are popular examples of Native apps

1. Whatsapp:

WhatsApp is a widely-used messaging app with native applications for various platforms such as iOS, Android, and Windows Phone. Known for its simplicity and secure messaging features, WhatsApp provides a seamless and platform-specific user experience through its native apps. Users can enjoy direct access to device functionalities, including camera and microphone integration, push notifications, and a smooth interface optimized for each operating system.

2. Pokemon GO:

Pokémon GO is a location-based augmented reality game available as a native app on iOS and Android. The native app allows players to explore the real world while capturing virtual Pokémon. Leveraging native capabilities, such as GPS tracking and camera integration, the app delivers an immersive gaming experience that is optimized for each mobile platform.

3. Sound Cloud:

SoundCloud, a popular music streaming platform, offers native apps for iOS and Android devices. These native apps provide users with a seamless music listening experience, leveraging platform-specific design guidelines and features. Users can also enjoy functionalities like offline listening, background playback, and personalized recommendations, all integrated into the native app experience. The app is optimized for the performance and usability standards of each operating system.

4. Tesla:

Tesla's mobile app, available for iOS and Android is a native extension of their electric vehicles. With native apps, Tesla owners can remotely control various aspects of their vehicles, such as climate control, charging settings, and even summoning the car.

5. Duolingo:

Duolingo, a language-learning app, provides native applications for iOS and Android users. With a focus on gamified language education, Duolingo's native apps offer an intuitive interface, personalized learning paths, and integration with device features like speech recognition and push notifications.

Progressive Web Apps vs. Native apps

Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) and Native Apps are both approaches to delivering software applications with distinct characteristics and considerations. On one hand, PWAs leverage standard web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create applications that are accessible through web browsers, offering a platform-agnostic and responsive experience. On the other hand, Native Apps are built using platform-specific programming languages and tools, providing direct access to the hardware and features of the device, often resulting in high performance.

Let's do a progressive web app vs native app comparison by discussing each approach in more detail.

What is a Progressive Web Application?

A Progressive Web App is a type of application software delivered through the web, built using common web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Generally, PWAs aim to provide a seamless user experience across various devices and platforms, combining the best features of web and mobile applications. This is why they are designed to work on any browser and are responsive to different screen sizes.

Key features of PWAs include offline functionality, responsive design, and the ability to be installed on the user's device without the need for an app store. PWAs also leverage service workers to cache resources and provide offline access, making them reliable even when the user is not connected to the internet. Notably, its W3C Manifest files and Service Worker registration scope enable search engines to recognize it as an "application," enhancing discoverability. Furthermore, its installable feature allows users to effortlessly add it to their home screens without the complexities of app store installations.

What is a Native Application?

Native apps are applications developed for a specific platform or operating system using programming languages and tools that are native to that platform. For example, iOS apps are typically built using Swift or Objective-C, while Android apps are often developed using Java or Kotlin. Native apps have direct access to the device's hardware and features, resulting in high performance and a consistent user experience.

Key features of native applications include optimal performance, seamless integration with device functionalities, and access to native APIs for enhanced functionality. Essentially, they are designed to take advantage of the platform's hardware and software, ensuring responsiveness and speed. Native apps can also utilize device-specific features such as cameras, GPS, and sensors, providing a tailored and immersive user interface. Additionally, native apps can be easily distributed through app stores, facilitating widespread accessibility and updates.

Progressive Web Application Pros

1. Responsive design: PWAs offer responsive design, adapting seamlessly to various screen sizes and resolutions. This guarantees an optimal user experience on devices ranging from smartphones to desktops.

2. Cross-platform compatibility: PWAs are built with web technologies (HTML, CSS, and JavaScript), making them compatible with various platforms and devices.

3. App-like User experience: PWAs mimic the look and feel of native mobile applications, providing users with an app-like experience directly from their web browser.

4. Offline functionality: By caching essential resources, PWAs can provide users with a meaningful experience even when they are not connected to the internet.

5. Automatic updates: PWAs are automatically updated in the background, ensuring that users always have access to the latest features and improvements without requiring manual updates.

6. No need for installation: Unlike native apps, users don't need to go through the process of downloading and installing PWAs from an app store. They can simply access the PWA through a web browser.

7. Efficient discoverability: PWAs are discoverable through search engines, making it easier for users to find and access the application. This is in contrast to native apps, which often rely on app stores for visibility.

8. Boosts Conversions & Retention: PWAs load faster, help find information instantly and increase time spent by the user.

Progressive Web Application Cons

1. Limited App Store Visibility: Unlike native apps that benefit from visibility in popular app stores, PWAs might face challenges in terms of discoverability. For example, users may not be accustomed to searching for web apps in app stores

2. Storage Limitations: PWAs typically have a storage limit within web browsers. While this may not be a significant concern for most applications, it can be a limitation for those requiring extensive offline functionality or handling large amounts of data.

3. App store policies: PWAs may not fully comply with app store policies, which could limit their acceptance on certain platforms.

4. Lack of user familiarity: Users might not be accustomed to adding web apps to their home screens or accessing them outside of traditional browsers. This lack of familiarity could impact adoption rates

Native Apps Pros

1. Optimized performance: Native apps are optimized for the specific platform's hardware and software, resulting in superior performance compared to cross-platform alternatives.

2. Improved user experience: Native apps can provide a seamless and immersive user experience by adhering to the platform's design guidelines. This consistency in design elements contributes to user familiarity

3. Push notifications: Native apps can leverage push notifications to re-engage users and provide timely updates.

4. Offline functionality: Many native apps offer robust offline functionality, allowing users to access certain features or content even when they are not connected to the internet.

5. Performance analytics: App stores provide developers with detailed analytics on user behavior, allowing them to gather insights into user engagement, retention, and other key metrics.

Native Apps Cons

1. long development costs and time: Developing native apps for multiple platforms (iOS and Android) often requires separate codebases, leading to higher development costs and longer timelines compared to cross-platform alternatives.

2. Limited cross-platform compatibility: Native apps are platform-specific, meaning separate versions need to be developed for each major operating system.

3. High dependence on app stores: Native apps rely on app stores for distribution and updates. This dependency can be a limitation in regions where app stores are restricted or for users who prefer alternative distribution methods.

4. Storage space: Native apps can consume a significant amount of storage space on users' devices.

5. Restricted accessibility: Users need to actively download and install native apps, which can be a barrier to entry. This contrasts with Progressive Web Applications (PWAs), which can be accessed directly through a web browser without installation.

PWA and Native Apps: Which Should You Use and Use Cases

Progressive apps and native apps both have their benefits and limitations. The one that is right for you meets the demands of your business and users alike. We covered essential metrics in this section.

1. Download and installations

Mobile application downloads require a lot of commitment; most users are looking for quick answers and solutions to their questions and problems, respectively.
Progressive web apps don't require any app stored download and installation. Instead, it can be added to the users' home screen and seamlessly integrated into their system settings.

2. Performance

Progressive web apps load fast even with a limited or poor connection. Users are more inclined to stay on a web page if it has a fast loading speed. This makes PWA; SEO friendly. Optimal performance is crucial for business productivity.
On the other hand, native apps are developed to suit operating system specifications; this makes them powerful. Native apps can access device hardware perform more calculations, and deliver a better user experience.

3. Features and functionalities

A native app can provide better features and functionalities than a progressive web application. The downside is installing updates to ensure the app is functioning optimally. On the other hand, an outdated mobile app means ancient features and functionality.
A PWA doesn't offer as many features like a native app but is always up to date, so users always enjoy an improved experience.

4. Offline availability

Pre-caching allows PWA to deliver offline functionality to certain parts of the web app at a time. But if a user requests any information or feature which isn't part of the natural caching system, they won't be given access. So, for example, you could browse static pages of the app, but you couldn't interact with the web app until connectivity is restored.
Native apps fare far better when it comes to availability. Without an internet connection, a native app can deliver consistent information (and offline functionality).

5. Cost

It is expensive to build native apps since you need to develop both versions separately if you want genuinely native features. Native app development for Android uses Java, Kotlin and objective C, swift for Apple operating system. It costs more and takes more people to manage two different development stacks. The high Cost is a risky barrier for early-stage startups who want initial traction and feedback from real users.
The process of creating PWAs, on the other hand, is quicker and less expensive since it is fundamentally a web app designed to work on any mobile device, irrespective of the operating system.

6. Time

A native app is a time consuming to build because designing and developing a mobile application or PWA functionalities are specific to operating systems. For example, the native approach requires software development teams to launch Android and iOS applications. In addition, validation is needed from app stores to launch and distribute native apps.
Progressive web apps are faster to build and deploy because, essentially, a PWA is a website. It can be quickly developed compared to a native app; this is useful to test user experience and analyse insights and feedback. Not having to wait for app store validation is a plus.

If you're still early and want to ship quickly (or get initial traction), PWAs may be the right choice.

Essentially, Choosing between a PWA and a native app depends on your specific needs and goals.

Go Native if: Your app needs deep device integration, high performance, or offline-first functionality. You're targeting a specific platform and have the budget for separate development.

Go PWA if: You want a wider reach across platforms, a quick and affordable development process, and easy accessibility without app stores. Offline functionality is a bonus, not a must.

Conclusion

Deciding on a progressive web application or a native app is dependent on the functionality of your product, its future and your users. Wazobia Technologies specialises in building software applications for businesses, so we can take on the work for whichever choice you make. Give us a call.

Progressive web application vs Native apps- Complete Business Guide

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