Definition:
A Progressive Web Application (PWA) is a technology promoted by Google. They are web apps that make use of the latest and most powerful technologies of browsers. That is, they combine the best of websites and the best of native apps. The intention is to offer users an experience that is closer from a native app to a web app. Web applications are characterized because they do not need any operating system to be supported but they do it through web pages in browsers. Thanks to progressive web applications we find a hybrid that works like native apps but works just like a web page.
Characteristics of PWAs
Thanks to the support of new technologies, progressive web applications offer us an assortment of possibilities never seen before:
- Enhanced performance: thanks to a lower use of resources, they offer us a much higher performance than traditional apps, with lower loading times, sometimes instantaneous.
- Offline work: without a doubt, one of the great advantages of this type of applications is the possibility of using them without the need to be connected to the Internet.
- Ease for developers: and is that those programmers who launch to develop this type of applications will verify that they require much less time and investment to produce them which is undoubtedly a great added value.
- Very reduced use of resources: with all the advantages that this entails such as not taking up space in the memory of the devices.
- Adaptability: Most of these applications have a responsive design that allows them to work on computers, tablets and mobile devices.
Examples of progressive web apps
Here are some examples of progressive web apps:
- Messaging: messaging applications, such as whatsapp or telegram have created PWAs versions that allow you to use their services beyond smartphones.
- Ecommerce: large ecommerce companies such as Aliexpress or Amazon want to increase their presence at all costs and have therefore developed PWAs that allow them to increase their sales.
- Social networks: almost all social networks, such as Facebook,Instagram or X – Twtter currently incorporate progressive web applications, seeking above all the use in terminals with more limited resources.
Advantages of Progressive Web Applications (PWA)
Progressive Web Applications offer a number of significant benefits that make them an attractive option for both developers and users. These advantages not only improve the user experience, but also streamline the development and maintenance process. The following are the main advantages that PWAs can provide to companies and their customers.
- Improved User Experience: They offer a smooth and fast experience, similar to native applications, with fast loading and responsive design.
- Simplified Accessibility and Distribution: Accessible directly through a web browser, eliminating the need for downloads and installations from application stores.
- Automatic Updates: Automa tically update upon login, ensuring that users always use the latest version.
- Reduced Development Costs: Enables more economical development by requiring a single code base for multiple platforms.
- Improved SEO: They are indexable by search engines, increasing visibility and traffic to the application.
- Advanced Functionality Integration: They can access device features such as push notifications and geolocation, enhancing interactivity.