What is a progressive web app?

Who uses progressive web apps?

Copy link

A variety of companies and industries use progressive web apps (PWAs) due to their flexibility, improved user experience, and cost-effectiveness. Here's an overview of who uses PWAs:

• Google recognized the potential of PWAs and launched a lightweight version of their popular Google Maps service. Before this, the main drawback of traditional map apps was their slow loading times and high data consumption. The PWA addressed these issues, providing a faster and more efficient experience.
• Also, Google Drive offers PWA versions to give users easy access to productivity tools without downloading an app.
• As an early adopter of PWA technology, Facebook relaunched its platform in 2019. The PWA provided users a viable alternative to the native mobile app, offering a more efficient and streamlined experience.
• While The Weather Channel offers a native app, a significant portion of its audience (50%) still relies on its mobile website. Many users reported difficulties accessing weather information due to poor network connections. The organization implemented a PWA to address this, ensuring reliable weather updates even in low-connectivity areas.
• To enhance accessibility and maintain the platform's appeal, Telegram developed a PWA. This expansion allowed users to access messages seamlessly across various devices while preserving the core features that made Telegram so popular.
• Coursera has implemented a PWA that allows students to access courses and videos on the go, even without an internet connection. Coursera's mobile users highly value this offline learning feature. Learners can download videos, readings, and even quizzes for offline access, making it easier to continue studying in areas with poor connectivity or to save on mobile data.

What are pros and cons of PWA?

Copy link

Progressive web apps combine the features of both web and native apps. While they offer many advantages, they also come with limitations. Here is a brief overview:

Pros of PWAs:

Copy link

• Cross-platform compatibility — PWAs work across multiple devices and operating systems.
• Offline access — Users can interact with the app even without an internet connection.
• No installation required — They can be added to the home screen without going through app stores.
• Lower development costs — Developers only need to build one version that works on web and mobile.

Cons of PWAs:

Copy link

• Limited device integration — PWAs have restricted access to some device features compared to native apps.
• Performance — PWAs may not match the speed and responsiveness of native apps.
• App store visibility — PWAs don't benefit from app store distribution channels.

📖 If you want to dive deeper into the pros and cons of PWAs and other mobile development options, check out our detailed article, PWA vs. Native App: Which One to Choose?

Are PWAs the future?

Copy link

PWAs have a promising future. Their ability to offer a near-native app experience without the need for downloads or app store listings makes them an attractive option for businesses and users alike. They have continued to evolve, offering a growing range of features and capabilities.

Here's a breakdown of some key PWA features and their potential applications:

Camera access

• Allow users to capture photos and videos directly within the PWA, streamlining tasks like QR code scanning and product documentation.
• Example: A visual support feature where customers can send photos of their issue for quicker assistance.

AR/VR projection

• Enable users to visualize products in their environment through AR/VR, providing a more realistic and engaging shopping experience.
• Example: Allow customers to virtually try on clothes or see how furniture would fit in their home.

Geolocation

• Use location data to deliver tailored content, recommendations, and store locator information.
• Example: In-store pickup options with real-time tracking and location-based promotions.

Push notifications

• Keep users informed with timely orders, promotions, and personalized recommendations updates.
• Example: Send alerts for abandoned carts or exclusive offers to drive conversions.

Bluetooth connectivity

• Connect to devices like fitness trackers to offer personalized product recommendations based on user data.
• Example: Suggest sports supplements tailored to a user's fitness goals and activity levels.

Speech recognition

• Provide voice-based interactions for users with disabilities or those who prefer a hands-free experience.
• Example: Allow users to search for products, place orders, and get customer support using voice commands.

By leveraging these PWA features, businesses can create more engaging, personalized, and accessible customer experiences.