Blog
28. July 2025

Introduction to Progressive Web Applications (PWA) and Their Benefits

In today’s digital world, users rely on fast, reliable, and intuitive applications. Progressive Web Applications (PWAs) represent an innovative approach to web application development that blurs the line between websites and native mobile apps.

 

What Are Progressive Web Applications (PWAs)?

PWAs are web applications that load and look like regular websites, yet offer features typically available only in native apps. The term “progressive web app” was first coined by Alex Russell from Google Chrome. These applications effectively bridge the gap between mobile apps and websites, offering the best of both worlds.

Users get a launch icon on their home screen, and the app opens in a new window (on desktop) or full screen (on mobile) without the address bar.

What Makes a Web Application Progressive?


For a web application to be considered progressive, it must meet certain key requirements and use modern technologies:

  • HTTPS Protocol: Ensures encrypted communication between the browser and server, enhancing data security.
  • Manifest File: Helps define the app’s structure, appearance on screen, requirements, and metadata.
  • Service Workers: JavaScript files running in the background that act as a proxy between the browser, network, and app. They enable features such as push notifications, resource caching, and more.
  • Benefits of Progressive Web Applications (PWAs)

For Users:

  • Faster performance and better speed: Caching makes pages quicker and smoother. 53% of users leave a page if it takes longer than 3 seconds to load.
  • Offline and anywhere functionality: Service workers allow operation even without an internet connection.
  • Minimal size: For example, Tinder’s PWA is only 2.8 MB compared to 30 MB for the native app.
  • Direct installation: No need for the App Store or Google Play.
  • Push notifications: Notifications can be sent even without an open browser.
  • Device integration: Access to camera, GPS, and other device features.
  • Automatic updates: Users do not need to manually install updates.
  • SEO-friendly: Improved visibility in search engines.

For Developers and Companies:

  • Single codebase: Works for Android, iOS, and desktop.
  • No distribution fees: Independent of app stores.
  • Faster development: Lower complexity, shorter time to market.
  • Cost reduction: Easier maintenance and development.
  • Push notifications for communication: Direct marketing channel.

PWAs in Oracle APEX

Oracle APEX has supported PWA development since version 21.2 (November 2021). Support has expanded over time:

  • APEX 21.2: Declarative PWAs and app installation.
  • APEX 22.1: Customization of service workers and persistent authentication.
  • APEX 22.2: Support for shortcuts, geolocation, web sharing, and more.
  • APEX 23.1: Support for push notifications.

PWA Settings and Features in APEX:

  • Shared Components: Activate PWA, colors, description, display.
  • User Interface Attributes: App icon and name.
  • Push Notifications: Require user consent and services like FCM or Apple Push.
  • Easy activation: Check “Install Progressive Web App” when creating a new app.
  • Requirements: Friendly URLs and HTTPS.
  • Shortcuts: Access specific pages directly.
  • Geolocation: Dynamic action “Get Current Position.”
  • Web Share: Share data using dynamic actions and meta tags.

Plans for PWAs in APEX:

  • Badges for notifications.
  • Support for multiple apps in a single PWA.
  • Distribution via App Store and Play Store.
  • Enforcing PWA usage for users.
  • QR sharing of pages and data (version 23.2).
  • Image upload and editing (version 23.2).
  • Analytics tools for PWA management.

Conclusion
Progressive Web Applications represent a revolutionary way to develop modern applications. Combined with Oracle APEX, they give developers the ability to create high-quality apps with a user experience comparable to native mobile apps, without high costs or complex management. For companies aiming to remain relevant in the mobile era, PWAs are an indispensable tool.