In recent years, PWA (Progressive Web Apps) have emerged as a game-changing technology that allows websites to function like native apps. You can add them to your smartphone's home screen and use them just like regular apps—without visiting an app store.
Major services like Twitter, Instagram, and Spotify now offer PWA versions, providing a lightweight and convenient alternative to traditional apps. In this article, we'll explain what PWA is, why it's useful, and provide step-by-step installation instructions for every major OS.
1. What is PWA (Progressive Web Apps)?
PWA is a technology that combines the best features of websites and native apps.
You can access a PWA through a browser like any website, but once added to your home screen, it displays an app-like icon and supports features such as full-screen mode, offline functionality, and push notifications.
Key Features of PWA
- No Installation Required: Add directly from the browser without visiting the App Store or Google Play
- Lightweight: Smaller file size than native apps, saving storage space
- Always Up-to-Date: Updates are applied automatically without manual intervention
- Offline Support: Pages you've visited can be viewed without an internet connection (site-dependent)
- Cross-Platform: Works on iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and more
2. Why Are PWAs Convenient?
Benefits for Users
① Saves Storage Space
Native apps can consume hundreds of megabytes, while PWAs typically require only a few MB—a huge advantage for users with limited storage.
② No App Store Approval Wait
You can access the latest features immediately without waiting for App Store or Google Play review processes.
③ Consistent Experience Across Devices
Whether you're on a smartphone, tablet, or PC, the interface remains the same.
Benefits for Developers
① Reduced Development Costs
No need to build separate iOS and Android versions—one codebase works for both.
② Freedom in Distribution
Not bound by app store policies, allowing more flexibility in content delivery.
3. PWA vs. Native Apps
Feature | PWA | Native App |
|---|---|---|
Installation | Directly from browser | Via app store |
File Size | Lightweight (few MB) | Heavy (hundreds of MB) |
Updates | Automatic | Manual or background |
Offline Mode | Supported | Supported |
Hardware Access | Limited | Full access |
PWAs aren't perfect for everything—apps requiring deep hardware integration (advanced camera features, sensors) are better suited for native development. However, for content-driven services like social media, news, and music streaming, PWAs are ideal.
4. How to Install PWA on Android (Chrome)
Installing a PWA on Android is straightforward.
Steps
- Open the site in Chrome
Visit a PWA-enabled site (e.g., Twitter, Instagram, Aitrafree). - Open the menu
Tap the three-dot menu (︙) in the top-right corner. - Select "Add to Home screen"
Choose "Add to Home screen" or "Install app" from the menu. - Confirm and install
Review the app name and tap "Add." An icon will appear on your home screen.
From now on, you can launch it like a regular app.
5. How to Install PWA on iPhone (Safari)
On iPhone, you must use Safari to install PWAs.
Steps
- Open the site in Safari
Visit a PWA-enabled site. - Tap the Share button
Tap the share icon (square with an upward arrow) at the bottom center. - Select "Add to Home Screen"
Scroll through the menu and select "Add to Home Screen." - Confirm the name and add
You can edit the app name. Tap "Add" when ready.
Important: On iOS, you must use Safari. Chrome and Edge do not support PWA installation on iOS.
6. How to Install PWA on Windows (Edge / Chrome)
You can install PWAs on Windows and use them like desktop apps.
Steps (Microsoft Edge)
- Open the site in Edge
- Click the "Install" icon in the address bar
PWA-enabled sites display a "+" or "Install" icon in the address bar. - Click "Install"
- A shortcut is created on your desktop
You can also pin it to the Start menu or taskbar.
Steps (Google Chrome)
Chrome works similarly—click the "Install" icon in the address bar.
7. How to Install PWA on macOS (Safari / Chrome)
On macOS, you can install PWAs via Safari or Chrome.
Steps (Safari)
- Open the site in Safari
- Go to File → Add to Dock
- An icon is added to the Dock
Steps (Chrome)
Same as Windows—click the "Install" icon in the address bar.
8. How to Uninstall a PWA
If you no longer need a PWA, you can remove it just like a regular app.
Android
Long-press the icon → "Uninstall" or "Remove"
iPhone
Long-press the icon → "Remove App"
Windows / macOS
Select "Uninstall" from the app settings, or delete the shortcut
9. Conclusion: PWAs Are the Lightweight Future of Apps
PWAs offer an app-like experience while saving storage and eliminating the hassle of app stores.
- ✅ Easy Installation: No store required, add directly from browser
- ✅ Lightweight: Only a few MB, doesn't clog storage
- ✅ Always Updated: Automatic updates, no manual work
- ✅ Cross-Platform: Same experience on any device
Services like Twitter, Spotify, and Aitrafree already support PWA. Try installing one on your device today and experience the convenience for yourself!