Progressive Web Apps (PWAs)

Technical Implementation

Professional PWA development implements Service Workers for offline functionality and background sync, Web App Manifest for installability and home screen integration with custom icons and splash screens, and Push API with Web Push Protocol for notification delivery across devices without app store mediation. Cache strategies leverage Workbox 7.0+ with runtime caching, precaching critical assets, and cache-first/network-first strategies optimized for specific resource types.

IndexedDB provides client-side data persistence for offline-first architecture, enabling complex data synchronization when connectivity resumes. Application shell architecture separates UI framework from dynamic content, loading instantly while data populates asynchronously. HTTPS enforcement ensures security required for Service Worker registration, with Let's Encrypt SSL certificates and HSTS headers preventing downgrade attacks.

Responsive design adapts to viewport using CSS Grid and Flexbox with mobile-first media queries, ensuring consistent experience across device classes. Web App Manifest configures display modes (standalone, fullscreen, minimal-ui), theme colors for Android status bar customization, orientation preferences, and start URL for deep linking. Service Worker lifecycle management handles installation, activation, and update strategies with skipWaiting() for immediate activation or user-prompted updates to prevent version conflicts.

Background Sync API queues failed network requests for automatic retry when connectivity restored, critical for form submissions and data updates. Web Share API enables native sharing functionality. Credential Management API streamlines authentication with password autofill and federated login. Payment Request API provides native checkout experiences reducing cart abandonment. Performance optimization targets Lighthouse PWA audit scores exceeding 90, with code splitting, lazy loading, and resource hints (preload, prefetch, preconnect) for critical rendering path optimization. Analytics track installation rates, offline usage patterns, and engagement metrics through Google Analytics 4 with custom events for PWA-specific interactions.

How much does PWA development cost?

PWA development starts at $2,997 for our Launch package (basic PWA with core features). Growth tier is $7,997 (advanced features with push notifications), Professional is $19,997 (full-featured PWA with offline database sync), and Enterprise is $49,997 (complex PWA with advanced integrations and custom functionality).

What is a Progressive Web App?

A Progressive Web App (PWA) is a website that works like a mobile app. Users can install it to their home screen, it works offline, sends push notifications, and feels like a native app - but it's built with web technology. One codebase works on iPhone, Android, and all devices.

How are PWAs different from native mobile apps?

PWAs don't require app store approval, install instantly via URL, work across all platforms with one codebase, update automatically without user action, take minimal storage space, and cost 75% less to develop. Native apps require separate development for iOS and Android, app store submissions, user downloads, and regular update requests.

Can PWAs work offline?

Yes! PWAs use Service Workers to cache resources and data, enabling full functionality even without internet connection. Users can browse content, fill out forms, and interact with features offline. When connectivity returns, data syncs automatically to the server.

Can PWAs send push notifications?

Absolutely! PWAs support push notifications on Android, Windows, and Mac immediately. iOS added support for PWA push notifications starting with iOS 16.4. Users opt-in just like with native apps, and you can send targeted notifications to re-engage customers.

Do PWAs work on iPhone and Android?

Yes! PWAs work on iPhone, Android, tablets, desktops, and any device with a modern web browser. One codebase serves all platforms. iOS support has improved significantly - iPhones now support PWA installation, push notifications (iOS 16.4+), and most advanced features.

How do users install a PWA?

When users visit your PWA, their browser shows an "Add to Home Screen" prompt. One tap installs it - no app store, no waiting. The PWA icon appears on their home screen alongside native apps. On desktop, browsers show an install icon in the address bar.

Are PWAs secure?

Yes! PWAs require HTTPS encryption for all connections - same security as banking websites. Service Workers only work over HTTPS, preventing man-in-the-middle attacks. We implement SSL certificates, security headers, content security policies, and regular security audits to protect user data.

Can PWAs access device features?

Yes! PWAs can access camera, microphone, location, accelerometer, gyroscope, notifications, file system, Bluetooth, USB, and more through modern web APIs. They support biometric authentication (Face ID, Touch ID, fingerprint), payment APIs, and sharing functionality just like native apps.

How long does PWA development take?

Typical PWA development takes 4-8 weeks depending on complexity. Launch packages take 4-5 weeks, Growth packages 5-6 weeks, Professional packages 6-8 weeks, and Enterprise packages 8-12 weeks. Much faster than native app development which takes 6+ months for iOS and Android combined.

Can you convert my existing website to a PWA?

Yes! We specialize in converting existing websites to Progressive Web Apps. We add Service Workers for offline functionality, create Web App Manifest for installability, implement push notifications, optimize performance, and enhance the mobile experience - all while keeping your existing design and content.

Do you serve clients outside Michigan?

Yes! While we're based in Michigan and proudly serve Birmingham, Livonia, Northville, Detroit, Ann Arbor, and the entire state, we work with clients across the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. All services available remotely.