Return to the glossary index

A native app is a mobile application designed specifically for a particular operating system used on smartphones and tablets, such as iOS or Android. For example, native iPhone apps are developed using a specific programming language. By opting for native app development, developers can fully utilize the features offered by the target operating system, such as GPS, the accelerometer, and the camera. Furthermore, these apps generally offer a richer user experience than web apps. Once installed, some native apps can be used offline, without an internet connection. However, it’s important to note that these apps are only accessible to smartphone users running the operating system for which they were developed. Therefore, to reach a wider audience, it’s necessary to develop multiple native versions, for example, for iOS and Android. In addition, native apps can only be distributed through specific app stores, which control their content and take a commission on sales and paid services. The choice to develop a native application is generally contrasted with that of a web application, which is more economical, compatible with most mobile browsers, but often less feature-rich. However, this trend could change with the growing popularity of progressive web applications (PWAs). For example, the newspaper L’Equipe highlights the complementarity between its native applications and the mobile version of its website, which is a PWA.

Return to the glossary index