Technology has come a long way and it is always evolving, offering a myriad of possibilities for businesses to attain an essential leverage. Avant-garde marketing nowadays is online, and if you want your trade to flourish or at least remain relevant, seen, and compete on a level playing field, then you need a regular presence on the digital realm.
There are various ways to go about this, but surely the most straight forward and practical are apps. Consumers access apps daily and often, both for social media and purchases, thus it is essential for a company or a brand to provide easy access to buyers through these apps.
Let us explore what are the differences between progressive web and native apps, and which ones are better for your commerce.
What are Progressive Web Apps (PWAs)?
PWAs utilise progressive development tools like JavaScript, CSS, and HTML. This way users can attain the app-like experience even via a browser and they can even run consistently across devices, which is faster and easier than downloading the actual apps from a traditional app store, presenting an ideal solution for companies which are yet mulling between PWAs and native apps.
In fact we find that usually PWAs are the preferred choice for trades who are after features like push notifications, instant loading through service workers, and offline functionality, which further enhance PWAs appeal.
Brands wanting to avoid higher development expenses which come with native apps, while still boosting reach and engagement opt for PWAs.
PWAs Key Features:
- Responsiveness – on multiple devices & screen sizes
- Installability – uploaded directly on home screen excluding the app store
- Push Notifications – users are kept engaged in real time with updates & alerts
- Offline Functionality – it enables offline access to cached content
PWAs Benefits
- No App Store Dependencies – Companies can avoid costs & reviews which come with app stores, thus saving time to market
- Faster Loading Speeds – Advanced caching mechanism allows for faster loading times even in low-connectivity environments
- Wider Reach – broad accessibility for users is ensured as PWAs work across multiple devices & platforms
- Cost Effective Development – no further expenses as the single codebase avoids separate developments for iOS & Android
PWAs – Limitations
- Few Monetisation Options – no in-app purchases due to no in-built application store mechanisms
- Performance Variability – performance could be slightly reduced when compared to native applications since it depends on the browser`s potential
- Limited Hardware Access – features like Bluetooth, NFC, & advanced sensors, can be difficult to access
What are Native Mobile Apps?
Offering a robust alternative we now have the native mobile apps, which are developed via software like Java or Kotlin for Android or Swift for iOS.
Key Characteristics:
- Customisable UI/UX – refined & intuitive interface since they are always following platform-specific guidelines
- Complete Hardware Integration – advanced device features like AR, GPS, & biometrics can be accessed
- Optimised for Specific Platforms – ensuring responsive & smooth interactions
Native Apps Benefits
- Improved User Engagement – via app store ecosystems, native apps can offer tools like promotion for enhanced engagement, reviews, & analytics
- Security – relying completely on the scrutiny of the app stores which protects the user data, & on the built-in security features of platforms
- Access to Advanced Features – integrate easily with device hardware for functionalities such as VR, AR, & push notifications
- Unmatched Performance – especially for graphics-intensive processes, native apps are perfect since they are receptive, dependable, & swifter
Native Mobile Apps – Limitations
- Dependency on App Stores – control over distribution could be limited & launches may be delayed due to app approval processes
- Maintenance Challenges – resource-intensive compatibility checks, bug fixes, & updates
- High Development Costs – development cost could be doubled since separate apps need to be developed both for iOS & Android
When to Choose PWAs
If you need:
- 1. an app for basic functionality not advanced features
- 2. a quick solution to develop and deploy
- 3. a broader reach on a tight budget
When to Choose Native Apps
If you need:
- 1. a plan to monetise via in-app purchases or subscriptions
- 2. an app involving complex, graphics-intensive designs
- 3. an extensive integration with platform APIs & device hardware
- 4. user experience and performance as your top priorities
Quick Side Note – Hybrid Mobile Apps
Yes, it exists a third option which is hybrid and it could be looked into especially if a company wants to avoid high expenses. These are made on web technologies wrapped inside a native container, and usually it permits to access features at lowest prices in the open market of a device.
Pros
– single codebase simplifies maintenance complications
– access to appstore
– develop faster than native apps
Cons
– customisation options are more limited than native solutions
– obverall performance may not match fully native apps
In Conclusion
As we can notice by now then, for fast deployment, cross-platform compatibility, and cost-effective way of development you can`t go wrong with PWAs. Conversely, if you’re seeking extensive customisation options, tight hardware integration, and superior performance, native apps are the way to go.
It all bores down to your budget, the requirements of your target audience or niche, and the business objectives of your company. These are the key evaluations and adjustments an organisation must undertake before choosing between PWAs and native apps, both of which are powerful and unique tools with their own strengths and limitations.
If your brand prioritises cost-efficiency, rapid deployment, and broad business reach, then PWAs are the ideal choice. Alternatively, if you need high scalability, superior user experience, and more complex functionalities, then native apps are the ones to opt for.
Both PWAs and native apps could be the game changer your company needs for a holistic boost, so we highly suggest that you do bring it up in your next board meeting. Let us know if we helped you get a raise!
