It is no longer up for debate whether businesses should enter the mobile market, as it has become an imperative action to take. Recent statistics reveal that there are over 3.86 billion smartphone users worldwide, which accounts for more than 50% of the global population. Though this is an impressive figure, what must not be overlooked is the possibility of Native Applications becoming obsolete.
One might think that the above statement is inaccurate considering the vast number of applications that are downloaded and installed. However, it is pertinent to consider the percentage of these applications that are actually used regularly. With over four million apps currently available for download from the Google Play and Apple Store, the amount of regularly used apps is notably lower. The result of this is a comical comparison.
It is evident that the number of apps available on the market far outweighs the demand. This is because many individuals do not find it necessary to have a separate app for each of their daily activities and are hesitant to download an application without a justifiable reason. So, does this imply that instead of apps, mobile websites should be used? Nonetheless, this is not necessarily the solution. It can be debated that we are currently in the initial stages of the Progressive Web App epoch.
Can You Refresh My Memory on Progressive Web Apps?
It is plausible that you may be acquainted with the abbreviation PWA, but may have forgotten what it stands for. To clarify, Progressive Web Applications (PWAs) are mobile applications that are comparable to native apps, yet without requiring users to download or install anything. This leads us to ponder: how do they manage to accomplish this? The response lies in the fact that they operate in isolation within a web browser.
Through the creation of a Progressive Web App (PWA), companies can gain numerous benefits. One of the primary perks is that PWAs can supply identical functionality to native apps without the demand for installation or downloads. This signifies that users can use the same gestures and navigations as they would with a native app. Plus, pre-caching guarantees that the app is consistently updated even in zones with poor connectivity, allowing users to instantly access the most recent version of the app.
To summarise, Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) offer users the best from both a mobile website and a native app, eliminating some of the limitations of each. Additionally, PWAs present their own distinct advantages to users.
Get Ready for PWAs
At the beginning of this year, Google Drive launched its progressive web app (PWA) as a means of reinforcing the company’s commitment to the continuously expanding mobile trend. Although the user experience did not undergo any drastic changes, there were observations that the app can feel a bit rough around the edges particularly for mobile users. Nevertheless, integrating PWA with Google Photos and YouTube Music signifies the company’s resolve to stay ahead of the game.
Several reputable corporations, including Forbes, Pinterest, Starbucks, The Weather Channel, and Twitter, have heavily invested in the development of Progressive Web Apps (PWAs), but with varying degrees of success. They are not alone; going by industry reports, Netflix is currently working on its own iteration, drawing inspiration from Hulu. Additionally, Microsoft is designing a PWA version of Edge, and Disney+ already has a PWA that is readily available for use.
The evidence presented evidently confirms the commonly held notion that progressive web applications are the future of the mobile industry. Disregarding this trend in technology would undoubtedly be a mistake for those involved. Therefore, what should those who have not started creating a PWA do? It is essential not to rush into it, as the progressive web application era is still in its nascent stage. However, there is no doubt that there is ample time to catch up.
Reasons to Switch to PWAs
It is strongly advised that enterprises investigate the possibilities that progressive web applications (PWAs) can bring to their mobile strategy. This is due to three key reasons, the first of which is cost-effectiveness. PWAs are significantly more affordable to create than other mobile strategies, a point of interest for senior management. Moreover, PWAs can be developed and updated much quicker compared to other alternatives, making them a desirable choice for businesses.
The benefits of building web applications as opposed to native apps are evident. With web apps, the amount of work needed is substantially reduced as there is only one version that is compatible with all browsers, instead of creating two separate applications for iOS and Android. Additionally, there is no need to be concerned about following diverse regulations specific to app stores.
PWAs (Progressive Web Applications) are much more efficient compared to native applications, as they demand a small amount of storage space and can be accessed from any mobile device at any point in time. Additionally, PWAs can be pinned to the home screen, presenting a UX (User Experience) and interface that is nearly indistinguishable from that of a native app.
The initial two points clearly indicate that present-day consumers do not install apps indiscriminately. For an app to capture the attention of users, it needs to have something unique to offer, either in the form of distinctive features or by being linked to a familiar brand. Even if users are interested, they may be hesitant to download the app, and if they encounter any problems such as sluggish performance, malfunctioning features, or an unattractive design, it is probable that they will not revisit the app.
Join the Mobile Trend, Right Away
A few years ago, progressive web applications (PWAs) were incredibly prevalent, primarily due to their increased convenience for both businesses and customers. Nonetheless, the appeal of PWAs faded over time. However, this does not spell the end for PWAs, as Gartner projects that by the close of 2018, the usage of PWAs will be equivalent to that of native apps, resulting in a ratio of nearly 50:50.
Considering how users are often hesitant to download additional apps, it is unsurprising that this exorbitant number exists. This presents a massive opening for progressive web apps (PWAs) to surge in popularity, on account of their adaptability and efficiency. Currently, PWAs are performing remarkably well. If your company has yet to think about incorporating a PWA, there is a possibility of lagging behind your rivals.
Aside from providing a feasible alternative to native apps, Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) can also serve as a replacement for mobile and desktop sites. If you select the appropriate PWA development provider, your PWA could become the basis for a mobile-first approach. Several prominent enterprises are already embracing this strategy, so why not follow suit? Will you regret missing out on this chance?
