Progressive Web Apps – The Future of Web Application Development

Posted by Tech Geekk
8
Mar 17, 2016
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Mobile web app development has seen some major changes over time. Some of these turning points have transformed the way web apps are developed, shared and used. Ajax was one such 'moment' in the history of mobile technology. It led to the emergence of web apps that shook the very foundation of conventional desktop apps. As opposed to this phenomenon, the user experience on mobile was largely confined to native apps until now.

As mobile web based applications continue to generate and regenerate themselves, a new idea has emerged. This new architecture will address the gap that currently exists between the performance of native apps and web. It may also become a solution that aids in the development of apps and websites that are quick and dependable in this mobile age.

The concept is known as 'Progressive Web Application'. Originally espoused by Google, progressive web apps begin as tabs in Chrome and progressively become 'app' like with increased use. A stage comes when they can be pinned on a phone's home screen or in the app category. They also have access to requisite app-like properties, like offline use and notifications. Progressive Web apps can also be linked to a URL, are secure and fully responsive.

Benefits of Progressive Web Apps

Progressive Web Apps are those experiences that integrate the best of web with the best in apps. Since they practically require no installation, they are useful to users from the very first time anyone uses them in a browser tab. As a user frequently uses these apps, a relationship is formed between the two and the app becomes more and more powerful. It loads very fast, even on sketchy networks. In addition, the app sends relevant push messages, has its own icon on the home screen and loads as full screen experience.

Progressive Web Apps are:

  • App-like – They feel like regular mobile apps to users. This is also because of app-like interactions and navigation that's built on the app shell model.
  • Safe – Progressive apps are served via HTTPS. This prevents snooping and ensures that content hasn't been manipulated.
  • Progressive – They work for all users, irrespective of browser choice since they’re built with progressive enhancement as a core function.
  • Responsive – They can fit any form factor: be it desktop, mobile, or tablet.
  • Independent of connectivity – Enhanced with service workers, they can perform even on low quality networks and offline mode.
  • Fresh – Always updated due to the service worker update process.
  • Discoverable –  Can be easily found as 'applications' due to W3C manifests and service worker registration scope allowing search engines to find them.
  • Re-engageable – Facilitate re-engagement through features such as push notifications.
  • Installable – Eliminates the need for an app store. Users can 'save' the apps they need on their home screen.
  • Linkable – Can be quickly shared via URL and don't need complex installation.

According to Google Developer's page, “several technologies are key to Progressive Web Apps. One is an application shell architecture, in which HTML, CSS, and JavaScript load fast, are cached, and enable dynamic content to populate a view.” As Progressive Web Apps continue to mature, we may expect more and more organizations adopting them. There is no doubt that these apps are the future of web app technology.
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