Progressive Web App (PWA) is a web application that uses modern web technologies to provide users with an app-like experience. These web apps are designed to work on any platform that uses a standards-compliant browser, including both desktop and mobile devices.
JavaScript plays a crucial role in PWA development, such as managing service workers (to enable features like offline accessibility), fetching API data, manipulating the DOM, handling user interactions, etc.
PWA can be characterized by:
1. Progressive – They work for every user, regardless of browser choice.
1. Responsive – They fit any form factor, desktop, mobile, tablet, or whatever is next.
1. Connectivity independent – They are enhanced with service workers to work offline or on low-quality networks.
1. App-like – They use the app-shell model to provide app-style navigation and interactions.
1. Fresh – They are always up-to-date due to the service worker update process.
1. Safe – They are served via HTTPS to prevent snooping and ensure content hasn’t been tampered with.
1. Discoverable – They are identified as “applications” thanks to W3C manifests and service worker registration.
1. Re-engageable – They can use push notifications to maintain engagement with the user.
1. Installable – They can be added to a device’s home screen with an icon, enabling full-screen access and behaving like a traditional app.
1. Linkable – Their URLs can be easily shared via a variety of methods and channels.
