Progressive Web Apps (PWA) are web pages that function like apps and can be accessed through browsers on mobile devices. These hybrids of websites and apps are indexed by Google and offer cross-platform usability much like native apps. As mobile optimization becomes crucial, PWAs are expected to play a significant role. The concept of PWAs was initially backed by Google.
Progressive Web Apps (PWA) resemble native apps but run through browsers on mobile devices without installation. They are easier to develop, index, and access.
Webmasters can optimize their content for mobile devices using responsive design, allowing access across various devices. Alternatively, native apps, which are standalone applications from app stores, are also used. Unlike native apps, PWAs do not need installation and can be indexed by search engines, offering direct web links.
Google has adapted to closed web systems by supporting app-indexing, enabling URLs within apps to be indexed. This means app content can appear in search results if the app is installed, and the app store's download page can be featured as a mobile search result.
Google's support for PWAs aims to maximize web content accessibility, enhancing crawlability for search engine robots. PWAs integrate app and web features, adhering to Google's Progressive Enhancement principle, which advocates for responsive, device-independent functionality.
Google outlines key characteristics of PWAs:
PWAs utilize "service workers," JavaScript files that cache content offline, eliminating the need for an internet connection and reducing page load delays.
Service workers extend further during PWA development, where tasks are scripted to automate processes based on events, preloading content before a link is clicked.
PWAs require an "application shell" to operate in any browser, ensuring a mobile-friendly view and adapting to browser functionalities. This shell mimics a native app's design and is cached upon access.
The "web app manifest," a JSON file on the server, enables users to save the PWA like a native app. It lays the foundation, allows home screen icons, chooses browser or standalone loading, and manages app appearance and functionality. Push notifications can also be enabled with user consent.
Google favors PWAs because mobile internet usage largely occurs via apps, limiting search engines' data access and content crawlability. PWAs allow data collection on user behavior and can display Google ads, creating a new revenue stream for Google.