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Many businesses want "an app". But once they realise that a native app for iOS and Android requires a serious budget and several months of work, the picture changes. Often the more pragmatic option already exists: a Progressive Web App (PWA).
What a PWA Is (and Why It Might Help You)
A PWA is a website with advanced capabilities: from the browser it "installs" on the customer's phone, appears with its own icon on the home screen, opens full screen without the address bar, and behaves like an app.
The key advantage? You build only one, and it works on iPhone, Android, and desktop, noticeably reducing cost and maintenance compared with two separate native apps. In addition, since iOS 16.4, Apple supports push notifications for PWAs installed on iPhones (when the user enables them).
Why More Companies Choose PWAs
1. Less Dependence on the Stores
No waiting for store approval, and no commission (which on the App Store and Google Play can reach 30%) on in-app payments. The distribution channel is yours: you update the site and the update is immediately available to everyone.
2. Works Offline (or Almost)
Is your agent in a warehouse with no signal and needs to check the price list? With a PWA they can: data is stored locally. It is a real advantage for sales teams and product catalogs.
3. Push Notifications
Want to alert customers about an offer? You can send push notifications straight to their devices (today on iOS too). It is a direct channel, often more effective than emails that end up in spam.
4. Lightweight
A native app can be a heavy download; a PWA is far lighter and "installs" in a few seconds, even on a slow mobile connection. Customers add it more willingly because it takes up little space.
A Concrete Alternative to a Native App
Large companies such as Starbucks, Uber, and Pinterest have adopted PWAs, but the technology is especially well suited to SMBs that want to innovate without a multinational's budget. Want to find out whether a PWA is right for you? Contact Mikesoft.