Apps in brief
An app (short for application) is application software that people use on smartphones, tablets, or other devices. Apps differ from classic websites: they are often distributed or installed via app stores (iOS, Android), offer an optimised experience on mobile devices, and can use device features such as camera, GPS, or push notifications. Apps can be built natively (platform-specific), as web apps, or as cross-platform solutions.
How does an app work?
Apps are installed on the device or loaded in the browser. Native apps use the platform’s languages and frameworks (iOS: Swift; Android: Kotlin/Java). Web apps and PWAs are based on HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Cross-platform frameworks such as React Native or Flutter compile shared code to platform-specific execution—one codebase, two platforms.
- Installation & distribution:Native apps are delivered via the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android). Web apps and PWAs are reachable via URL and can optionally be installed on the home screen.
- Device features:Native and cross-platform apps can use camera, GPS, sensors, push notifications, and offline storage. Web apps have more limited access—PWAs extend what is possible.
- Updates:Store apps are updated through the stores. Web apps and PWAs are updated on the server—users always see the latest version.
App types at a glance
The right app type depends on your requirements, budget, and audience. Native apps offer maximum quality; cross-platform and PWAs are often more cost-efficient while still delivering a strong user experience.
Native app
Built specifically for one platform (iOS or Android) with Swift/Kotlin or native frameworks. Maximum performance and access to all device features (camera, GPS, push). Must be published in app stores. Higher effort for two platforms: two separate codebases.
Web app
Runs in the browser; no installation required. Built with HTML, CSS, JavaScript—reachable via URL. One codebase for all devices. Trade-off: limited access to device features and less of an “app feel” than native apps. Ideal for simpler applications or as a complement to your website.
Progressive Web App (PWA)
A web app with app-like capabilities: usable offline, installable on the home screen, push notifications. One codebase; no app-store approval required. A good balance between reach and experience. Google and many modern browsers support PWAs.
Hybrid / cross-platform app
One codebase for iOS and Android—e.g. with React Native, Flutter, or Xamarin. Much cheaper than two native apps. Near-native performance and device access are possible—a balance between effort and quality, often the best fit for medium-sized projects.
App vs. website—differences
Websites are reachable in the browser without installation. Apps can be installed, often perform better on mobile devices, and can access device features. A website reaches all devices with one URL; an app must be built for each platform or delivered as a PWA. For many businesses a responsive website is enough; apps pay off when you need repeat use, offline features, or complex interactions.
- Reach:Websites are discoverable immediately via search engines and links. Apps require a download or app-store search.
- Engagement:Apps on the home screen increase visibility and allow push notifications. Websites reach users without installation.
- Development cost:One website serves all devices. Native apps for iOS and Android double the effort—cross-platform reduces cost.
App development—technologies
Building an app requires planning, design, programming, and testing. For native apps: Swift (iOS) and Kotlin (Android). For cross-platform: React Native (JavaScript/TypeScript), Flutter (Dart), or Xamarin (.NET). For web apps and PWAs: HTML, CSS, JavaScript—often with frameworks like React or Vue. The choice depends on complexity, budget, and target platforms.
- React Native:One codebase for iOS and Android, large community, solid performance. A good fit if you already have web expertise.
- Flutter:Developed by Google; one codebase for iOS, Android, web, and desktop. Fast performance and its own UI toolkit.
- PWA:Web technologies; no app-store approval. Suited for content, e-commerce, and tools with moderate scope.
Apps for businesses
Companies use apps for customer retention, internal processes, e-commerce, or services. A well-planned app can strengthen brand awareness, expand channels, or streamline workflows. Important: clear audience, defined value, and realistic budgeting. Often a PWA or cross-platform app is the best entry point—less effort than two native apps, still a professional result.
- Customer apps:Ordering, booking, support, loyalty programmes—a direct channel to users.
- Internal apps:Workflows, inventory, time tracking—mobile access to company data.
- MVP:Start with a minimum viable product—core features first, then extend based on feedback.
Apps—summary
An app is application software for mobile or desktop devices—with different types: native, web, PWA, or cross-platform. The choice depends on your goals, budget, and audience. For many projects a cross-platform app or PWA is the most sensible option—one codebase, multiple platforms, professional UX.
IVIS MEDIA builds tailored apps for iOS, Android, and the web—from concept and cross-platform development with React Native through to release. We advise on platform, technology, and delivery. More about app development.