PWA: differences, advantages, examples

PWAs may seem complicated at first, but in reality, you may be surprised at the benefits they can bring to your business. What is a PWA? What are the differences with a traditional application? What are its advantages? We explain everything to you!

What is a PWA?

The term PWA (progressive web application) refers to an online application that takes advantage of the most advanced web technologies to offer users an experience similar to those of native applications. The fact that they are progressive means that they offer a consistent and responsive experience across platforms and browsers.

Big companies like Twitter, Pinterest, and even Google are increasingly using PWAs. If you visit one of these websites frequently, chances are you've already used a PWA without even realizing it.

It is possible to use No-code app builders to create PWAs, which greatly simplifies the process.

Difference between PWA and native application

The following question comes up often when talking about PWAs: what are the differences between PWAs and native applications? The answer is quite simple: a PWA is a web application that uses the latest advances in the web to offer a user experience comparable to that of a native application. PWAs contain a few additional features that allow them to function like real applications, but they load just like any other web page.

On the other hand, native applications are created exclusively to work on a single platform, such as iOS, Android, or Windows. They need to be downloaded and installed on the device in order to access all of its features, including the camera, GPS, push notifications, etc. Although native applications are more complex and more expensive to develop and deploy than PWAs, they offer a more immersive user experience.

In what cases should a PWA be developed?

There are a number of reasons why developing a PWA could be a good idea. Here are a few of them:

1. If you want to offer a smooth and immersive user experience, with little load time and latency, the PWA is for you.

2. If you're targeting users who may have limited or unstable Internet connections, a PWA can be very useful. Indeed, PWAs can be designed to work even when there is no Internet connection.

3. If you want your users to be able to install your site or app on their device, a PWA is ideal.

4. Finally, if you're looking to create a unified user experience across devices and platforms, PWA is the way to go.

The advantages of a PWA

PWAs improve accessibility

They allow access to online content without an Internet connection, adapting to all devices and supporting advanced web functionalities. They are also easier to develop and deploy, which reduces production costs.

Updating is easier on PWAs

All developers need to do is update the code on the server and all users automatically benefit from the updates at the same time. Plus, PWAs can be updated in the background, meaning users don't even need to know that an update has taken place.

PWAs are more secure

They offer better security. Viruses and malware are less likely to affect PWAs since their data is kept on secure servers rather than on the devices themselves.

PWAs are efficient

They take advantage of the latest browser technologies to provide a high-end user experience. In particular, PWAs benefit from Service Workers, which allow applications to run offline and load more quickly. Service Workers are only available on newer browsers, which is why PWAs are so powerful.

Bubble, a tool to develop a PWA

PWAs are developing more and more and Bubble is an ideal platform to create them. Bubble is a no-code tool that allows you to develop web applications in a visual way, without any code knowledge. It is therefore ideal for no-code developers who don't know how to code.

Additionally, Bubble offers a lot of advanced features for experienced developers. With Bubble, it is possible to develop web applications that are very rich in functionalities.

If you are not convinced by Bubble, read our article Why do a PWA on Bubble?

PWA examples

PWAs have already been adopted by several major, popular businesses. In recent years, web developers have become more and more interested in this technology and aim to create their own PWAs.

Here are three examples of business PWAs you're bound to be familiar with:

Pinterest

One of the first businesses to use PWAs was Pinterest. In order to offer users an optimal experience on all devices, Pinterest rolled out its first PWA in 2017.

Even on the go, users can enjoy a fast and smooth experience with Pinterest PWA. In addition, it allows data to be stored on the user's device so that they can access it even when they are offline.

Pinterest has significantly improved its user experience by deploying its PWA. PWA is something you need to consider if you want to give your users the best possible experience.

Tinder

Tinder launched Tinder Online, its online version, on January 21, 2019. Because it's a PWA, it loads faster and is lighter than the original. Users can access it in multiple countries around the world.

Because Tinder Online is a lightweight version of the app, it loads faster and uses less data. Users who don't want to download the entire app or don't have access to a high-quality network can consider this option. Tinder Online is also useful for people who don't want to install the app on their phone.

Uber

There's nothing like a smartphone app for carpooling! To make it easier for drivers and passengers looking for rides to connect, Uber created a PWA. The Uber PWA app is fast and lightweight, making it ideal for everyday urban travel. It works on tablets as well as smartphones, making it easy for drivers and passengers to connect and find trips.

Scroll helps you develop your PWA 

Do you have a PWA project? Do you want to improve the user experience of your website? We are here to support you! At Scroll, we combine within our Bubble agency, no-code experts ready to offer you tailor-made solutions that perfectly meet your needs. Thanks to the Bubble tool, we bring your PWA projects to life! Do not hesitate to contact us!

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