Mobile App vs Mobile Websites: Which One Should You Choose For Your Business And Why?

With many organizations currently accelerating digital initiatives, moving to fully digital business models, deploying 5G and increasing the number of IoT devices, it’s safe to assume that this number will continue to grow exponentially. It’s no longer a question of whether your company needs a mobile app development strategy, but whether you’ll be better served by a mobile app versus a mobile website. At face value, mobile sites and apps can look very similar but they are actually very different mobile media.

Mobile app vs mobile websites

Mobile app

More interactive ways to engage the user

A mobile app allows you to offer value to your existing clients users through a new engagement channel. Websites tend to have limited functionality, while an app can integrate features that allow users to interact with its specific components.

Customization

Mobile apps allow users to set their preferences immediately after downloading them; settings can be adjusted according to their needs. In addition, apps can track user engagement and use it to offer custom recommendations and updates. This makes the app even more useful for users. Additionally, apps allow businesses to send users customized communications based on their interests, location, usage behavior and more.

Ability to work offline

Mobile applications can run without an internet connection. Although many apps require an internet connection to perform most of their tasks, most offer content and functionality even offline.

Intuitive interface

Mobile apps generally offer users a more intuitive user interface that makes it easier to complete tasks. This unique interface environment allows users to become more immersed in the mobile experience. Users of specific operating systems have also become accustomed to certain functionalities and features. Responsive websites cannot always guarantee the standard features that users prefer.

Use of device capabilities

Mobile apps can access and use the device’s built-in features, such as the camera or GPS. Utilizing the capabilities of the device leads to a better and more convenient user experience.

Responsive mobile websites

Available to all users

Unlike mobile apps that only work on specific platforms, a responsive website can be accessed from any mobile device as long as an internet connection is available. Additionally, responsive websites require no downloads and are completely free, unlike many apps available in app stores.

Users do not need to update

Again, unlike mobile apps, users won’t have to spend time installing new versions or updating your product to experience the development on the web. This means that users will not notice the update process and will be able to go directly to the improved experience.

Cost effective

Cost efficiency is a business benefit rather than an impact on user experience. However, depending on the complexity, a responsive mobile website can be more cost effective than mobile app development.

Conclusion

In many cases, you may decide that you need both a mobile website and a mobile app. If done right, both can be a strategic and valuable choice. When it comes to your brand’s mobile strategy, it doesn’t have to be a mobile app vs mobile websites but with dual access.