Why Are WebView Apps Not
Real Mobile Applications?

28 Sept

By: Prabal Raverkar

Why Are WebView Apps Not Real Mobile Applications?

In the world of mobile development, there is often confusion between WebView apps and native mobile applications. While WebView apps are sometimes used as a quick solution, they are not true mobile apps in terms of functionality, user experience, and performance.

This blog will break down why WebView apps fall short compared to fully developed mobile applications.

1. What Are WebView Apps?

A WebView app is essentially a mobile application that loads a website inside an app shell. It acts as a browser, showing web content within the app. While this may seem like an easy and cost-effective way to create an app, it has significant limitations.

Easy But Limited Solution: WebView apps are often chosen because they are simple to develop and deploy. Developers can use existing websites and display them in an app format without needing to write extensive native code. However, this simplicity comes at a cost.

2. Why WebView Apps Are Not Real Mobile Applications

Lack of Native Features: Unlike native apps, which are built using platform-specific languages (like Swift for iOS or Kotlin for Android), WebView apps do not have access to most native features. Native mobile apps can utilize device functionalities like the camera, GPS, push notifications, and more, which WebView apps cannot handle effectively.
Poor Performance and User Experience: WebView apps often have performance issues. They tend to load slower than native apps because they rely on a web-based interface. This can frustrate users, leading to a higher rate of uninstalls. Additionally, since they are essentially websites wrapped in an app, the user experience does not feel like a real mobile app experience. The navigation and responsiveness of native apps are far superior.
Limited Offline Functionality: Native mobile apps are designed to work both online and offline by storing data locally. WebView apps, on the other hand, require an internet connection to load most of their content. This makes them unreliable for users who need access to app functionality when they are offline.

3. Security Risks of WebView Apps

WebView apps are more vulnerable to security risks compared to native apps. Since WebView apps load web content, they are exposed to web-based threats like phishing attacks, malicious code, or unauthorized access. On the other hand, native apps provide better security protocols, encryption, and data protection.

4. No App Store Optimization (ASO) Benefits

For businesses looking to increase visibility through app stores, WebView apps do not provide the same advantages. Native mobile apps are better for App Store Optimization (ASO), helping to improve your app's ranking on platforms like Google Play and Apple's App Store. WebView apps often do not meet app store standards, leading to lower visibility and potentially being rejected by app stores.

5. Limited Customization and Scalability

Native apps are highly customizable and can scale as your business grows. If you need to add new features or update functionalities, native apps provide flexibility for continuous improvements. WebView apps, however, are limited by the constraints of the website they display. Adding complex features, such as social media integrations or augmented reality, is much harder with a WebView app.

6. Why Choose Native App Development?

Some apps offer both a free and paid version. The free version may include ads (like those from Google AdMob) while the paid version is ad-free. Users can choose to pay a one-time fee to enjoy the app without interruptions, which creates another revenue stream.

Better Performance: Native apps run faster, smoother, and provide an enhanced user experience.
Access to Device Features: You can leverage device capabilities like cameras, GPS, and push notifications.
Offline Functionality: Users can access the app even when they are not connected to the internet.
Improved Security: Native apps offer robust security features that protect user data.
Future-Proof: Native apps are scalable and can be updated with new features..

Conclusion

While WebView apps may seem like a convenient shortcut to building a mobile app, they are not true mobile applications. For a robust, feature-rich, and reliable app that enhances user experience, choosing native development is the best approach. By working with the best mobile app development companies in India or mobile app developers USA, you can ensure that your app stands out in the crowded app marketplace with top-notch performance and security.

Prabal Raverkar

Director

I'm Prabal Raverkar, and I'm honored to serve as the Director of Young Decade IT Software Solution, a leading IT company based in the vibrant city of Indore. With vast experience in mobile app development, we deliver innovative, user-friendly solutions that meet the needs of businesses across industries. Our expertise in creating high-quality, scalable apps ensures your brand thrives in the digital landscape.