Introduction to Native Device Features

Progressive web apps (PWAs) aim to provide native app–like experiences to users directly through the browser. While PWAs cannot access all device APIs like native mobile apps, they can leverage certain native features and capabilities to enhance user experience.

Key native device features

Let’s explore some key native device features that PWAs can tap into to feel more like dedicated apps:

• Installability: One of the core tenets of PWAs is being installable on devices, just like a regular app. The web app manifest allows developers to specify metadata like name, description, icons, etc., that allows browsers to surface an “Add to Home screen” prompt.

• Push notifications: Push notifications are a powerful way to reengage users and drive them back to apps. ...