Offline capable
Cache selected assets and data for defined offline tasks. Fresh data and some actions still require a connection.
[ glossary — web apps ]
What is a Progressive Web App?
A plain-English guide to Progressive Web Apps for founders and product teams weighing app-like websites against native development.
( the features )
App-like, but in the browser.
Installable
Supported browsers let users add the app to their device; the installation flow varies by platform.
Push notifications
Send notifications where supported, with user permission and the required platform setup.
Web updates
Publish through the web. Caching and service-worker activation determine when existing users receive an update.
( pwa vs native )
Choose based on your goals.
PWA advantages
URL-based access, shared web code and direct web distribution, with browser-specific testing.
Native advantages
Deeper device access, richer app-store distribution, and a familiar install experience.
Common hybrid
Many products ship a PWA for reach and a native app for deeper capabilities.
Best use cases
Content, eCommerce, and tools that benefit from fast load, offline, and installability.
( faq )
Common questions
What is a Progressive Web App?
A PWA is a website enhanced with app-like capabilities like offline support, push notifications, and home-screen installation, delivered through the browser.
What makes a site a PWA?
For installation promotion, supporting browsers generally require HTTPS and a suitable web app manifest. Exact rules vary. Service workers are commonly used for offline and background features, but are not a universal installation requirement.
PWA or native app: which should I choose?
Compare the required device features, offline tasks, distribution channels and supported browsers. A PWA can reuse a web application; native development may better support particular device capabilities. Cost depends on the scope and testing needed.
Can a PWA be indexed by search engines?
Public PWA pages can be indexed when search engines can access and render their content. Installation support does not make private, blocked or unavailable content crawlable.
Is a PWA right for my business?
PWAs suit content sites, eCommerce, and tools that value fast load, offline, and installability without a full native build.
Can Udaan build a PWA?
Yes. We add PWA installability, offline support, and performance to web builds, and can pair a PWA with a native app when useful.