TL;DR: Don’t rush into making a mobile app first. A Progressive Web App (PWA) is a faster way that avoids the hassle of app store approvals, device fragmentation, and constant updates. You still get the app icon on the home screen. Focus on building your web application first, then think about mobile. Only consider a mobile app if your product needs device-specific features.
Introduction
Most startups approach me with an idea of creating a mobile app first. The reason they think like this is they’ve seen apps on their phones and think that the only way. However, building a mobile app takes way more effort than most people realize. Between slowly debugging, testing across dozen or more devices, and staying on top of constant updates, mobile app development can become a never ending cycle.
Things to focus on before deciding to go mobile
Mobile app development takes more time and resources
Even if you opt for hybrid development, you’ll still need to test your app across multiple devices and operating system versions. That means more testing, more debugging, and ultimately, more time spent fixing issues that pop up on different phones.
Frequent mobile updates are a Headache
Mobile libraries are updated every year. These updates could cause bugs or break parts of your app, forcing you to update it. And with both iOS and Android to worry about, you’ll find yourself fixing the app twice as much, all while trying to stay ahead of the curve.
Progressive Web App (PWA) way
Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) are websites that function like apps. They can be added to a user’s home screen, don’t require app store approval, and don’t need to be downloaded. With a PWA, you’re able to update your app instantly without worrying about the approval process from Apple or Google. No waiting. No headaches. Just an app that stays up to date and works across devices.
Skip App Store Regulations
When you build a mobile app, you're subject to the strict rules of app stores, particularly Apple. They take a 15% of your revenue, and they mandate that you use their payment systems. With PWAs, there’s no need to worry about any of that. You can keep all your revenue and avoid the restrictions that come with app store rules.
Instant updates without the waiting
PWAs has the ability to push updates right when you need them. You don’t have to wait for approval from app stores, and you won’t run into delays. That means you can fix issues faster, launch new features quicker, and keep everything running smoothly.
No Risk of App getting banned
Getting your app removed from the app store can be devastating for your business. With a PWA, your app is hosted on your servers, meaning no one can take it down. Your users can access it directly through their browsers, and you’re in full control of your app's future.
QR codes make downloads easy
Need users to access your app quickly? No problem. Simply create a QR code that directs them to your PWA. They don’t need to go through an app store—just scan, and they’re in. It's simple and effective.
Mobile Apps Should Come After Your Web App Gains Traction
Take a look at ChatGPT. They launched their mobile app after they had solid traction with their web app. Mobile should be an added convenience, not the starting point. If your app isn’t built on a strong web foundation, mobile development can be a distraction.
Reason to go Mobile?
If your app requires features that depend on the device, like the camera, GPS, or sensors, then a mobile app might be necessary. But for most apps, a PWA will do the job just fine. Think about the core functionality of your app before making the leap to mobile.
The Hidden Costs of Mobile Apps
Apple takes a cut of every payment made inside your app 15%. In addition, you will face longer compile times, slower feedback loops, and increased chances for bugs. All of this adds up to more time spent developing and fixing issues, reducing the overall efficiency of your team.
Takeaways
Before jumping into a mobile app, consider building a PWA instead. It’s a cost-effective, easy-to-manage option that lets you reach your users without the complexities of mobile development. Focus on building a strong web app first, and only move to mobile once you’ve proven your idea. If your app needs device-specific features, then by all means, build a mobile app. But for most other cases, PWAs offer a faster, simpler, and more flexible alternative.
