Mobile app vs Web app
In today’s digital age mobile technology has become an indispensable part of everyday life. Its pertinence is so strong, it has become impossible to live without. From navigation, calendar management, communicating with friends and families and everything in between. Life without a mobile device would be a complete mess. In efforts to maximize its usefulness, the world was introduced to applications.
Advantages of mobile app
Applications or Apps is software that allows users to perform specific functions. Web-based applications rely on internet connectivity to run. Typically built using HTML5, CSS and JavaScript some parts of the program are downloaded into your devices every time the program is ran. Its rise in popularity is mainly due to not requiring installation, updates or hardware upgrades. Mobile-applications or Native Mobile Apps are applications users download through “app stores” (i.e. iTunes and Google Play) and are accessed through home-screen icons. These applications (depending on the nature of the app) can work with no connectivity. Although, data transmission requires an internet connection. They are developed to be “native” to a specific platform such as SWIFT for iOS, JAVA or Android Studio for Android and C# for Windows.
Disadvantages of web app
Both applications as a whole have strengths and weaknesses. Although both are innovatively designed to make life easier, nothing comes without shortcomings. The biggest drawback of web-based apps is mentioned in its name “web-based.” Its operational speed is also contingent upon the speed of your WIFI or cellular connections. This means in most cases you may not be able to access the app in some buildings or underground facilities. Or if you’re in a “dead zone” no cellular or WIFI access the application itself is not going to work.
Why is it a good idea to use a native application?
Native Apps, although no internet connectivity is required mostly pull information or functions from the web behind the scenes. These applications are the most reliable in terms of user capability. The app itself works fastest when harnessing the power of your device’s processor. In some cases, it can even control the device or as a controller itself. It can interact with all of the devices operating system features (i.e. microphone, camera, contact lists) for an amplified experience. For developers, since the app requires a separate distribution mechanism for each platform each app must be individually designed and developed. Of course, separate apps require twice the work and employees opposed to just employing one team.
Which is better for your business mobile app or web app?
Not to be dismayed, web apps have few other players to consider, responsive web apps and adaptive web apps. Unlike the traditional web app that we discussed above a responsive web app alters its appearance when opened on different devices as opposed to a computer. While it is considered easier to build developers must keep in mind: computing hardware (i.e. camera) can’t be utilized and of course, you cannot find it in a mobile store. An adaptive web app mirrors the look of the I full-sized webpage it’s just shaped to fit a mobile device. I know what you’re thinking—Which one should I choose, web-based or native? In order to make the best decision take a look at your business need, budget, and ability to bring your ideas to life.
Recommended Reading:
How much does it cost to create an App?
We’re available to help build your mobile app, whether you want it made for Android, iOS, or both. You can get an estimate for your app using the Confianz app cost calculator.
If you are interested in building a custom Android mobile application or iOS mobile app for your business please contact us here