Blog · Développement web
What are Progressive Web Apps (PWAs)?
PWAs in 2026: What is a Progressive Web App, differences with native apps, advantages, limitations, real-world examples, and when to choose one.
If you use your phone to access websites frequently, you’ve probably already used a progressive web app without even realizing it. But what is a progressive web app? We explain everything.
What is a progressive web app?
A progressive web app (PWA) is a web application that leverages the latest web technologies to deliver a user experience comparable to that of a native app. They are progressive, meaning they adapt to all types of devices and browsers, offering a smooth and optimal experience.
Progressive web apps are increasingly used by major companies like Twitter, Pinterest, and even Google. If you frequently use any of these sites, you’ve likely already used a progressive web app without even knowing it.
To develop a progressive web app, you can use no-code app builders which greatly simplify the process.
What’s the difference between a progressive web app and a native app?
The question of the difference between a progressive web app and a native app is often asked. The answer is quite simple: a PWA is a web application that uses the latest web advancements to provide a user experience similar to that of a native app. PWAs load like any other web page but benefit from additional features that allow them to behave like a true application.
Native apps, on the other hand, are developed specifically to run on a single platform, whether iOS, Android, or Windows. They must be downloaded and installed on a device and can access all of its features, such as the camera, GPS, push notifications, etc. Native apps offer a more immersive user experience than PWAs, but they are more difficult and costly to develop and deploy.
What are the advantages of a progressive web app?
There are several advantages to developing a progressive web app. Here are a few:
Accessibility
They are easy to deploy online. There’s no need to create a native app for each platform. And they adapt to all devices. Users don’t need to download a specific app for their phone or tablet.
Updates
Progressive web apps can be updated live on the server side. Users don’t need to download new versions of the app—updates typically happen automatically.
Security
They’re more secure. Progressive web apps are less likely to fall victim to viruses or malware because their data isn’t stored directly on devices but on secure servers.
Performance
They’re faster. Progressive web apps are generally faster than native apps because they’re less resource-intensive. Progressive web apps don’t require storage on the user’s phone or tablet.
In short, by developing a progressive web app, you can benefit from advantages in accessibility, updates, security, and performance.
Examples of progressive web apps
Many major companies have already adopted PWAs. In recent years, more and more web developers have taken an interest in this technology and are looking to create their own PWAs. Here are three examples:
Uber
Nothing beats a mobile app for ridesharing! Uber developed a PWA to allow drivers and passengers to connect and find rides with ease. Uber’s PWA is lightweight and fast, making it ideal for urban trips. Plus, it’s compatible with smartphones and tablets, enabling drivers and passengers to connect and find rides effortlessly.
Tinder
On January 21, 2019, Tinder launched its web version called Tinder Online. This version is a Progressive Web App, meaning it’s lighter and faster to load than the classic version. Tinder Online is available to users in different countries around the world.
Tinder Online is a streamlined version of the app, meaning it loads faster and uses less data. It’s a great option for users who don’t want to download the full app or who don’t have access to a high-quality network. Tinder Online is also useful for those who don’t want the app stored on their phone.
Pinterest was one of the first services to adopt PWAs. In 2017, the company launched its first PWA to provide users with an optimized experience, regardless of the device they’re using.
Pinterest’s progressive web app offers users a smooth and fast experience, even on the go. Additionally, it allows users to save Pinterest content to their device, enabling them to access it even when they’re offline.
By adopting PWAs, Pinterest significantly improved the user experience for its users. If you want to create an optimal user experience for your users, PWAs are a technology you should definitely consider.
At Scroll, we support you in developing your Progressive Web App
Our web app experts work daily with Bubble to develop progressive web apps. Bubble is a no-code tool that allows us to bring your PWA projects to life. To meet your needs, we’ve implemented theBubble agency.
Thanks to our perfect mastery of Bubble and our expertise in this field, we support our clients on a wide range of projects. We leverage Bubble’s power to deliver innovative, custom-built applications in record time.
Do you have a Progressive Web App project? Contact us to discuss your project!
