Progressive Web Apps: Building Web Apps That Feel Native
Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) combine the reach of the web with the experience of native apps. They are fast, reliable, and installable, making them a powerful tool for modern web developers.
Why PWAs Matter
Traditional web apps often face challenges:
- Slow loading on mobile networks
- Limited offline access
- Lack of native-like features (push notifications, home screen install)
PWAs solve these problems: β offline-first capability, β responsive and fast, β installable like native apps.
π‘ Tip: Google reports that PWAs can increase engagement and conversions by providing a smoother, app-like experience.
Core Features of a PWA
π Reference: MDN PWA Guide
Common PWA Myths vs Reality
Setting Up a Simple PWA
1. Create a Web App Manifest (manifest.json)
json{ "name": "My PWA", "short_name": "PWA", "start_url": "/", "display": "standalone", "background_color": "#ffffff", "theme_color": "#317EFB", "icons": [ { "src": "/icons/icon-192.png", "sizes": "192x192", "type": "image/png" } ] }


