Web App vs Mobile App: Understanding the Key Differences

Web applications and mobile applications differ in a number of ways:

• Platform: Web applications are accessed through a web browser on desktop or mobile devices while mobile apps are downloaded and installed on a mobile device.
• Functionality: Web applications are designed to be accessible across multiple platforms while mobile apps are specifically designed to operate on a mobile device and make use of its native features such as the camera, GPS, and accelerometer.
• User Experience: Mobile apps are typically designed to provide a better user experience and performance compared to web applications. Mobile apps are often faster and more responsive due to the ability to store data locally on the device.
• Development: Developing mobile apps requires specific programming languages like Java or Swift, while web apps can be developed using standard web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

In conclusion, the platforms they operate on, their functionality, user experience, and the development process are the key distinctions between web applications and mobile apps.