If you are planning to develop an app, you may be between building a mobile app or web app. Unlike common misconception, mobile apps and web apps are different. There are many differences between these apps, including development. Businesses want to invest in mobile apps as consumers are using more smartphones compared to desktops. However, with the growing technology for both these applications, businesses are also considering mobile apps.
What is the difference between mobile apps and web apps? Which one should you go with? In this article, we will look at mobile and web apps, and what makes them different.
Mobile apps or native apps are apps designed for a specific platform like Android or iOS. A user can download these mobile apps on their devices.
A web application is an application that is delivered on the internet through a browser. Web apps, unlike native apps, don’t need to be downloaded as they can be accessed through a network.
Mobile apps are software programs that are designed for mobile devices or tablets. To access a mobile app the user needs to download it from an app store. Mobile apps are developed for platforms like iOS or Android.
Web apps are accessed through a web browser. These apps are accessed through web browsers and can adapt to any device. Web apps don’t need to be downloaded.
Web apps and mobile apps are built differently. Here is what you need to know about how these are developed.
Mobile apps need to be developed for iOS or Android platforms. The development of apps for mobile devices is normally more expensive than the web. But mobile apps are faster and provide more functionality to the users.
Businesses need to develop these apps from scratch and rely on developers to build these apps. Languages like JavaScript or CSS are used to construct the app. Deciding on which platform to build the app on can be another challenge for a business. Developing an app on both iOS and Android can be expensive.
Web apps are built using types of code, client-side script languages and server-side code. Client-side programming relies on the user’s browsers to execute code that runs the app. The server-side programming is coded in languages like Python or Java. It receives, stores, and sends information back to the user’s browsers.
A web app can be run by a single developer. Compared to mobile apps, these apps are easier to build. Web app developers can use templates to help speed up the development process.
User experience is an important part of any app development process. It is the overall experience of a person using your mobile app. User experience aims to create positive experiences for the customers so that they are loyal to the product. Another aspect it focuses on is to help solve a user’s problems. When interacting with your app the user should be able to reach their goals easily.
Let’s look at how mobile apps and web apps impact user experience.
Intuitive interface
Mobile apps have intuitive interfaces, where you can provide users with the features they are used to. These features are not always found on websites.
Personalization
Mobile apps can be customized to add more value to the user’s experience. Businesses can create tailored content for users based on their interests, behavior, location and more. Moreover, you can also reach users easily with relevant content that enhances their experience. For example, you can send users push notifications on their devices with relevant content.
Using device capabilities
Mobile apps can use device features like GPS, camera, contacts and more to enhance the user experience.
Offline mode
Some apps can enable users to interact offline. The users will have limited functionality without the internet, but they will have access to the basic information they need.
Mobile apps have many features that can enhance the user experience. Web apps may not have as many features, but they do have their own advantages when it comes to user experience.
Accessible to all users
Unlike mobile apps, web apps can be accessed through any device or any operating system. The only thing you need is internet connection to access these apps. Since web apps need internet, this can also be a drawback as network quality and access can impact the user experience
Users don’t need update
Users don’t have to install web apps and don’t need to update them often. Websites can be easily updated for enhanced user experience.
Many businesses do need mobile apps, as these apps can offer a wide range of features and functionality to the users. However, web apps can help businesses reach a wide group of audiences, since it is accessible to all. Web apps can be accessed easily through browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Safari.
On the other hand, mobile apps can work offline. You can also reach your users on their devices through push notifications. Mobile apps can provide users with personalized content and experience. Moreover, you can use the features on mobile devices to improve user experience.
While deciding about which type of app you want to opt for, assess your business goals. Budget constraints are another factor that will have an impact on your decision. Web apps are generally more cost effective as compared to mobile apps. But if your business goals need an app that can offer better features and functionality to the users then you might need a mobile app.
Before deciding, think about your business goals, target customers, industry, budget etc. to help you make the right choice for your business.