Progressive Web App
A web application using modern technologies to deliver app-like experiences—offline functionality, push notifications, and home screen installation—without app store distribution.
Definition
Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) are web applications built with modern technologies like service workers, web app manifests, and responsive design to provide experiences traditionally associated with native apps. They work offline, can send push notifications, and install to device home screens.
PWAs combine web advantages (no app store, single codebase, instant updates) with native app benefits (offline access, device integration, app-like interface).
Why It Matters
PWAs dramatically reduce the friction of app distribution—users access functionality instantly without download and installation barriers. Engagement metrics often improve substantially over mobile web.
For businesses, PWAs offer native-like experiences at a fraction of native app development cost, with simpler maintenance and instant deployments.
Examples in Practice
A publisher converts their mobile site to a PWA, enabling offline reading and push notifications. Mobile engagement increases 76% and return visits double—without the cost of native app development.
A service business's PWA lets field workers access critical information offline in areas with poor connectivity, then syncs when connection returns—eliminating a major workflow pain point.