## What are Progressive Web Apps?
Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) are web applications that feel and behave like native mobile apps. They can work offline, send push notifications, and be installed on your home screen - all while being accessed through a browser.
Think of PWAs as the best of both worlds: the reach of websites with the experience of mobile apps.
## Key Features
**Offline Capability**: PWAs work without internet connection using service workers to cache content.
**Installable**: Users can add them to their home screen without going through app stores.
**Push Notifications**: Re-engage users with notifications just like native apps.
**Fast and Responsive**: Feel smooth and responsive, loading instantly even on slow networks.
## Why PWAs Matter
**For Users**: No app store downloads, less storage space, instant updates, works on any device.
**For Developers**: One codebase for all platforms (iOS, Android, desktop), no app store approval process, easier updates.
**For Businesses**: Lower development costs, better SEO than native apps, higher conversion rates.
## Real-World Examples
**Twitter Lite**: A PWA that uses 70% less data than the native app, loads in 3 seconds on slow connections, and saw 75% increase in tweets sent.
**Flipkart Lite**: Reduced data usage by 3x, increased time on site by 40%, and saw 70% higher conversion rate compared to their previous mobile website.
**Starbucks PWA**: Works offline for browsing menu and customizing orders, resulted in 2x daily active users.
## How They Work
PWAs use three core technologies:
- **Service Workers**: JavaScript that runs in the background, enabling offline functionality
- **Web App Manifest**: JSON file that makes the app installable
- **HTTPS**: Required for security
When you visit a PWA, it can prompt you to "Add to Home Screen." Once installed, it launches like a native app with its own icon.
## When to Build a PWA
**Choose PWA when**:
- You want cross-platform reach without multiple codebases
- App store presence is not critical
- Fast, lightweight experience is important
- Budget is limited
**Choose Native when**:
- You need deep device integration (NFC, advanced camera features)
- App store discoverability is crucial
- Platform-specific features are required
## The Future of Apps
Many companies are shifting to PWAs to reduce development costs and improve user experience. As browser capabilities expand, the line between web and native apps continues to blur.
PWAs represent the evolution of the web - making it more app-like while maintaining the webs core strengths of accessibility and reach.
