Startup Viewpoint: Mobile Website vs Mobile Application Debate
In the ever-evolving digital landscape, startups often grapple with the decision of whether to prioritise mobile apps or mobile websites for their ventures. Here's a breakdown of the key differences between these two platforms from a startup perspective:
From a reach and accessibility standpoint, mobile websites have a broader reach as they are accessible on any device with a browser without the need for downloads or installation. This makes websites cost-effective and quick to launch for reaching a large audience [1][3]. On the other hand, mobile apps have a more limited reach, only accessible to users who download the app.
When it comes to development and maintenance, mobile websites are generally cheaper and easier to maintain since a single responsive site works across platforms. Apps, however, require developing separate versions for iOS, Android, etc., and need frequent updates that users must download [1][2][3].
In terms of user experience and engagement, mobile apps provide a better user experience (UI), higher engagement, and richer interactivity. They can use device hardware features (camera, GPS, notifications), support offline access, and allow more personalization [1][3][5]. Mobile websites, however, may lack in these areas.
Performance-wise, apps are faster because data can be stored locally and can operate without an internet connection. They also offer enhanced security features such as encryption and two-factor authentication [2][3].
From a business strategy perspective, many startups begin with mobile websites to validate ideas and gain initial users, then build an app to deepen engagement once demand is established. A hybrid approach offering both mobile web and apps is often most effective to cater to different user preferences and maximize growth [3][5].
In summary:
| Aspect | Mobile Website | Mobile App | |-----------------------|--------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------| | Reach | Broad, accessible via any browser | Limited to users who download app | | Development Cost | Lower, single codebase for all devices | Higher, multiple platforms to support | | Maintenance | Easier updates, no user downloads required | Requires regular updates and user downloads | | User Engagement | Lower interaction and personalization | High engagement with rich features | | Device Integration | Limited (no access to camera, GPS, etc.) | Full access to device hardware | | Offline Usage | Not available | Available | | Security | Depends on web protocols, less secure | Generally more secure with built-in features | | Best Use Case | Reaching large audiences quickly, testing | Building loyal user base, when advanced features are needed |
This understanding helps startups decide based on budget, timeline, target audience, and desired user experience [1][2][3][5].
The app industry is expected to be worth $190 billion by 2020. The updating process is different for apps and websites, with apps requiring users to download and install updates, while websites update automatically. If updates to the offering are frequent, web apps are a better choice initially, as users do not need to download and install updates for hybrid apps like Twitter, Instagram, Gmail, etc.
For using device features like GPS, Camera, or Calling, a dedicated mobile app offers a better user experience compared to web apps, although web apps can access these features with HTML5, NodeJS, Geolocation API, etc. Mobile apps and mobile websites are used for the functioning of businesses, corporations, and institutions.
Sources:
[1] Forbes. (2018). Mobile App Development Cost: How Much Will it Cost to Build an App? Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2018/08/29/mobile-app-development-cost-how-much-will-it-cost-to-build-an-app/?sh=6c91e0792f92
[2] Statista. (2020). Mobile app revenue worldwide in 2020. Retrieved from https://www.statista.com/statistics/266235/mobile-app-revenue-worldwide/
[3] TechCrunch. (2017). The case for mobile web over mobile apps. Retrieved from https://techcrunch.com/2017/02/14/the-case-for-mobile-web-over-mobile-apps/
[4] BuiltWith. (2020). PWA Statistics. Retrieved from https://trends.builtwith.com/pwa
[5] Wired. (2018). The Rise of Hybrid Apps: Why More Companies Are Combining Native and Web-Based Apps. Retrieved from https://www.wired.com/story/the-rise-of-hybrid-apps-why-more-companies-are-combining-native-and-web-based-apps/
In the digital landscape, startups must consider both web development and mobile app development strategies for their ventures. While mobile websites are more cost-effective and accessible on a wider range of devices, they may lack in user engagement and device integration compared to mobile apps [1][3]. In contrast, mobile apps offer greater user engagement, device integration capabilities, and advanced security features, but require more resources for development and maintenance [1][3][5]. Therefore, businesses may initially opt for web development to quickly reach a large audience and validate ideas, then transition to mobile app development for deeper engagement once demand is established, employing a hybrid approach for maximum growth [3][5].
While mobile apps and mobile websites serve different purposes, both play essential roles in the growth and success of businesses, corporations, and institutions. The app industry is expected to be worth $190 billion by 2020, making it crucial for startups to carefully consider their development strategies based on budget, timeline, target audience, and desired user experience [1][2][3][5].
