How to turn a website into an app (PWA): step-by-step
You can turn a website into an app via PWA (Progressive Web App) — a technology that allows 'installing' a site as an icon on home screen, working offline, sending push notifications. Need: manifest.json (app description file), Service Worker (offline script), HTTPS, mobile optimization. WordPress has plugins (PWA for WP, Super Progressive Web Apps). For Tilda — limited. Alternative: package site in WebView via PWABuilder or Capacitor and publish to Google Play and App Store.
You can turn a website into an app via PWA (Progressive Web App) — technology that turns a site into a "semi-native" app. Users can install your site as a home-screen icon, work offline, get push notifications. No need for app stores — installation through browser.
What PWA needs
- HTTPS (free Let's Encrypt).
- manifest.json with app description.
- Service Worker for offline.
- HTML registration.
How to do PWA on different platforms
- WordPress: Super Progressive Web Apps plugin.
- Shopify/Wix: built-in in premium tiers.
- Custom site: direct manifest + Service Worker.
PWA vs native
| Param | PWA | Native |
|---|---|---|
| Dev cost | 1× (one codebase) | 3–5× |
| Installation | Browser | App stores |
| SEO | Preserved | None |
| Updates | Automatic | Through store |
This question is also asked as:
- •how to turn website into app
- •progressive web app guide
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