# Apps for iOS, Android and PWA

> Apps for field teams and for digital products. PWA when a store is unnecessary, native when the device has to do more.

Source: https://boosting.tech/en/services/mobile-apps/

## PWA or native app: which one?

For internal teams, a PWA usually does the job. It is a website that installs on the phone, opens full screen, receives notifications and updates itself, with no store and no review. For a product sold to the public, with a subscription and a store presence, a native app is the way.

| Criterion | PWA | Native app |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Distribution | Link or QR code | App Store and Google Play |
| Updates | Immediate, for everyone | Go through store review |
| Camera, QR code, GPS, notifications | Yes | Yes |
| In-app subscription | No | Yes |
| Cost to maintain | Lower | Higher |

## Where have we used each one?

Most of our operations systems run as PWAs. That is how a boat pilot records the departure and arrival of each trip and how a crew member runs the inspection checklist on board. See the [offshore passenger transport](/en/case-studies/offshore-passenger-transport/) case and the [vessel inspection](/en/case-studies/vessel-inspection-and-maintenance/) case.

In the [health app](/en/case-studies/health-app/) we went native, with React Native and Expo, because the product needed store subscriptions, Sign in with Apple and a daily-use experience.

## What comes with the app?

An app almost never stands alone. It needs an API, a database and a panel for the team that manages content and users. We deliver all three and the store release, including developer accounts, listing copy and screenshots.

## Frequently asked questions about apps

### Does a PWA get notifications on iPhone?

Yes. Since iOS 16.4, a PWA installed on the home screen receives push notifications. The user has to install the app and allow notifications.

### Do you build in Swift or React Native?

Both. React Native with Expo covers most projects with a single codebase for iOS and Android. Swift comes in when the product depends on iPhone-specific features.

### How long does store approval take?

Apple and Google reviews usually take from one to a few days, but they can come back with requirements. We plan the first release with slack and handle the replies to review.

### Can we start with a PWA and go native later?

Yes, and it is a common path. Since the API is the same, the native app reuses the business rules and data that already exist.