Which is Better- Mobile Web Apps or Mobile Native Apps? – Part 2

by Digital Infoware Web and Mobile Apps Developer, Designer

In the article, Which is Better- Mobile Web Apps or Mobile Native Apps? – Part 1, we looked at the merits and demerits of mobile web apps. We also peeped into what mobile native apps are. In this article, we will look at the benefits and shortcomings of mobile native apps. A mobile native app can be downloaded from a web store and can be used later. Native apps are usually written in Java, Objective C, or some other programming language. One of the major advantages of native web apps is that they deliver a richer and compelling user experience. As they can be installed, right on the device, you can use them even when you are offline. You will not require any internet connection to run them.

Advantages of Mobile Native Apps:

Native mobile apps enable placing a logo in the application list screen. This offers visibility on a daily basis. App stores keep reminding users to update apps regularly. Hence, apps that need to be updated frequently (to be able to avail of latest improvements) get more attention from the user. It is also very easy to monetize a native app. You can set a price for the app. When users buy it, you can make money instantly. This is not the case with a web app as you will have to set up a payment or subscription gateway if you wish to monetize the app.

Disadvantages of Mobile Native Apps:

Coming to the disadvantages of native apps, it can be said that they work only for a specific device. If you wish to enable a native app to work across multiple devices, separate versions of the app are needed. This implies that you will have to develop, test, and port apps for different environments. This demands sufficient time and effort investment. It must be noted that keeping the application up-to-date requires sufficient time and effort for the enterprise. You need to develop, test, and distribute for different platforms rather than doing the same for a single website.

This has given you a clear idea on what can be best for your business. Now, let’s summarize them both so that you can arrive at the right type of app that can push the growth of your business.

Gist of Web App:

Owing to the single code base, needed for all required platforms, web apps ensure faster build time. They also offer potential support for additional platforms. The only drawback it suffers from is no support for integration with on-device email or contacts.

Gist of Native App:

A native app can offer support to all the requested features such as integration with built-in PIM apps (email/calendar/contacts). They also make it easy for developers to create innovative and rich user interface for the app. This provides an opportunity to the business to improve the user experience, and give a chance to prove it better than the competitors. The only shortcoming it suffers from is it takes longer to build and needs a separate code base for every platform.

All in all, it can be said that if your company is ready to spend on a unique code base of every platform and does have time to do so, then going for native app would be the best option.

About Author :

Jennifer Brown is a software developer and blogger.Currently associated with India based leading mobile application development company Digital Infoware Pvt. Ltd..