The types of applications.

The types of applications: What are the different types of applications that can be found on the web?

Are you looking to launch your own application? You need to start by properly managing your project, beginning with determining the type of application to create and the steps to follow for its development. But you're probably wondering how many types of applications exist and what they are. This article will provide more information.

Over the years, countless applications have appeared on the web, and to be honest, it's very difficult to differentiate them because the words used to describe a type of application in development can become repetitive and redundant. Web applications, desktop applications, mobile applications, native applications, and hybrid applications are all terms we use. Consider it a cluster and start placing different types of applications within it. You'll likely find elements that overlap. In essence, it's easy to get lost in the multitude of application types.

Web Application

The first type of application you may come across is the web application. Its content is similar to that of a native application (the ones you download from app stores). It includes databases, an elegant interface, and can work on all devices responsively. However, this type of application is not suitable for offline use since most functions require an internet connection.

Web applications can run on a PC, tablet, and smartphone as long as you have an internet connection. They are similar to web pages, but they include software functionalities (they store data, delete it, can impose restrictions, communicate with APIs, and more).

Most people associate a mobile application with anything they download from their phone. Therefore, it can be strange to consider an application that looks like a website.

Take Bubble, for example; this tool allows you to create web applications. Applications developed using Bubble require an internet connection to function. This means they are web applications, even if you use them on your phone.

Advantages of Creating Web ApplicationsCreating web applications comes with several excellent advantages, such as:

1. Web applications are easy to maintain because they share a programming base across many mobile platforms.
2. Web applications can be developed on any platform as long as they are used in a web browser.
3. Web applications are less costly than mobile applications.
4. Web applications do not adhere to traditional operating system protocols and do not require app store approval; they can be launched at any time and in any form.
5. Web application updates are immediate, and users do not need to perform updates themselves.

Desktop Application

A desktop application, sometimes referred to as desktop software, is distinct.

According to PC Magazine, a desktop application is 'a program that runs as a standalone software on a desktop or laptop computer.' This is the opposite of a 'web application,' which requires a web browser to function. Excel is an example of a desktop application: you can download it to your computer and use it as you wish without needing an internet connection.

Isn't it simple? Desktop applications are simply programs you install on your computer. They typically do not require an internet connection to work, although some of their features may be hindered without one.

Local Application

Unlike the previously mentioned applications, there are several points to clarify regarding local applications. Although they may seem similar to a native application, they are not quite the same. One difference to note is the need to use a wrapper to distribute a web application through app stores.

Native applications are downloaded through an app store (like Google Play or Apple's App Store). They are specifically designed for a platform and can fully utilize all smartphone functions, such as the camera, GPS, contact list, etc. They can also include gestures (standard OS gestures or new gestures defined by the application). Native applications, on the other hand, can use the device's notification system and work offline.

Hybrid Application

Hybrid applications are defined as 'primarily online applications that mimic native applications.' These applications have the typical advantages and disadvantages of both native and online mobile applications.

This is precisely what you would do if you intend to develop a 'native' application on Bubble. You would first build the canvas application on Bubble, and then 'package' it with a service like 'BDK or Jasonelle' before publishing it in an app store.

Mobile Application

Creating a mobile app is straightforward, but it can be challenging to distinguish at first.

Technically, a mobile app is not a native app, although it's often considered a native app. In reality, it's an app or website that runs in a standard web browser but can be accessed on a mobile device rather than a computer.

This is where 'versions' for mobile devices or responsiveness come into play. For example, with your Bubble app, you can create a version of the app specifically for desktop and designate another page as a mobile version of that page.

You can also develop a responsive app that will work on all screen sizes. (This is a superior alternative because it allows you to work within a single app rather than having to update two versions of an app throughout its existence).

Because they are accessible on mobile devices but are not native, each of them is still called a 'mobile app.'

PWAs

When you see the distinctions laid out, all the aforementioned types of applications are popular and generally quite easy to understand. PWAs, on the other hand, are challenging to explain, even to experienced developers.

PWAs are, at their core, web applications meant to function similarly to native apps. They are set up to run in a regular web browser, making them easily operable (no downloads required), but they also offer the benefits of native apps, such as push notifications and other offline capabilities.

This can get quite technical, as creating a PWA involves some technical language. For example, an app is considered 'Reliable' when it installs instantly and never displays the download prompt, even in uncertain network conditions. And an app is 'Fast' when it quickly responds to user input with smooth animations.

It looks like a native app on your smartphone, with an immersive user experience.

PWAs, according to Google, are an 'experience that blends the best of the web and apps.' Users will find it useful from the first visit in a browser tab; no installation is required. As the user builds a relationship with the app, it becomes progressively more powerful. It loads quickly, even on flaky networks, delivers relevant push notifications, has an icon on the home screen, and loads in full-screen mode.

Why are these elements important?

It's essential to know what type of application you're creating to ask the right questions. This allows you to better manage your project, knowing what problems to address with advisors, finding development partners with the most suitable services, addressing an audience of investors and users, and more.

You'll also have a clearer vision of the path forward. For example, if you're developing native apps, you'll know that the core will be launched in Bubble since the apps will be 'generated' using an external service. Or you'll learn that you can create a progressive web app, but there are certain constraints (you'll also understand if these limitations are worth proceeding with).

If you're developing an app for field service contractors, for example, you'll know that having an internet connection isn't common. It's essential to be able to anticipate this in advance.

You'll also know if you need to use programming languages or a no-code platform like Bubble to create your app. (In most cases, if you want to build fully customized software, your best choice is to efficiently and quickly construct a no-code program).

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