The importance of mobile apps continues to grow as people spend more time on their phones. Smartphone users clock 100+ hours per month (3+ hours/daily) on app usage, making the transition from a website to a mobile app a strategic move in today’s digital ecosystem. Join us as we unravel the intricacies of making a website an app, enhancing user engagement and tapping into a younger, tech-savvy demographic with just one click of your finger.
Why make a website an app?
Today’s mobile-centric world means that your website needs to be a great app. It’s not just about keeping up with trends; it’s about offering a superior user experience and driving engagement.
Three reasons why you might want to consider making your website an app.
1. More engagement.
When you launch your app on the Google Play Market and App Store, you open up a world of opportunities to engage new users affordably and effectively.
Additionally, it helps build a stronger brand by presenting your business in a way that sets it apart from competitors.
Apps are easier to access than websites, so when a user has installed an app, you should design it so that it’s easy for the user to interact with your content.
As the number of people using mobile devices for internet browsing is increasing, it makes sense that having a mobile app can boost your website’s ranking on search engines.
2. More conversions.
A mobile app makes it easy for customers to find and access your business. They can explore products, make purchases, or access customer support with ease.
Mobile apps can also personalize the customer experience, tailoring it to individual preferences and location. This level of personalization is difficult to achieve on a website, which makes mobile apps a more effective way to engage with customers.
Additionally, features like push notifications can provide customers with a convenient way to learn about deals and new opportunities, which is more difficult to accomplish on websites.
3. More retention and brand loyalty
Mobile apps are an excellent way to remind customers of your brand, making them more likely to visit your business repeatedly. Mobile loyalty programs can track purchase histories, automatically reward customers with points or vouchers, and encourage repeat purchases.
Additionally, businesses can use past usage data to tailor loyalty campaigns more effectively. For example, they might send personalized push notifications to draw inactive users back.
Here are the steps to make an app from a website.
Evaluating your website
Before you begin developing your mobile app, take some time to assess your current website. Identify the elements that will translate effectively into your new app.
Designing for mobile
Users expect your mobile app to be easy to use. Make sure you design it with a mobile-friendly interface that promotes touch navigation.
Selecting the right approach
There are three main ways to develop apps: native, hybrid and PWAs.
- Native apps are developed for one platform. They can take advantage of the device’s features, but this comes at a higher cost than cross-platform apps.
- Hybrid apps are built using web technologies and wrapped in a native container, providing an affordable alternative to building native apps from scratch.
- PWAs are web-based and don’t require installation, but they might lack some of the capabilities of native apps.
Developing the app
The development phase of your app should replicate and enhance the key features of your website.
Testing and optimizing
It is essential to test your app across different devices and operating systems to ensure a smooth experience for users.
Launching and marketing
One way to promote your website and business is to create an app from the website. Once you have an app, promote it on marketplaces like the App Store and Google Play. You can also promote your app by using your website, social media profiles, and email marketing.
How much does it cost to make an app from a website?
The cost to develop an app depends on the approach you choose.
The cost of building a native app can vary greatly, depending on factors like the complexity of the app and the platforms for which it is being built. The iOS app development cost, for example, includes expenses for specialized developers and testing on multiple devices; while the Android app development cost involves integration with platform-specific features.
Although hybrid apps may be more cost-effective than native apps, they still require significant investment. Basic functionality can range from $20,000 to $80,000, while apps with more advanced features and custom design elements can cost between $80,000 and $150,000.
For those looking to make a mobile app on a budget, Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) and app builders like Bubble.io, Wized, Wix, etc. are good options. A PWA uses existing web technologies and reduces the cost of designing an app by approximately $6,000 to $20,000 for basic PWAs with standard UI/UX. For highly complex PWAs with extensive features, custom development and integrations, the cost can range from $50,000 to $100,000 or more. Similarly, app builders provide a DIY approach but could limit customization and functionality.
Web2app converter: a revolution in making a website an app
Digital transformation is allowing businesses and individuals to reach new audiences more easily than ever before. A Web2app converter allows you to convert your website into a mobile app, so you can publish on both the App Store and Google Play.
Natively is revolutionizing the app development industry with its innovative, user-friendly approach.
Streamlining the conversion process
Natively simplifies the app development process and allows users to convert their websites into iOS and Android apps without coding. This is particularly beneficial for small businesses or individuals who may not have the knowledge, time or money to develop an app from scratch.
Cost-effective and user-friendly
Natively offers an affordable alternative to hiring a developer to create your app. The platform’s fully automated flow minimizes potential mistakes and eliminates the need to share credentials, making it secure and easy to use.
Rapid deployment and broad compatibility
Natively is a quick and easy way to create a mobile app, letting you build an app in just 5-10 minutes. This makes it perfect for those who want to get their mobile presence up and running without lengthy development cycles. It works with many site platforms, including JavaScript frameworks and no-code platforms like Bubble, Webflow, Wix, WordPress, and Shopify.
Incorporating advanced features
The platform integrates special mobile features such as push notifications, in-app purchases, geolocation and deep links to help businesses increase user engagement and conversions. The ability to update the web app anytime without rebuilds and have those updates appear in the mobile app adds to its efficiency.
Examples of apps converted from websites
Here are three examples of websites that have been effectively turned into mobile apps, each showcasing a different approach and functionality:
When Instagram was first created, it was a simple photo-sharing website. But when it became a mobile app, the platform took on new features and design elements that made it more appealing to users. The app’s makers leveraged smartphone cameras and social networking, two trends that were not as seamlessly integrated into its original website form.
Flipboard started as a mobile app that aggregates news and social media posts, but it has since evolved into a full-fledged magazine-format platform that allows users to flip through articles using a touchscreen interface.
Airbnb
Airbnb’s mobile app made it easier for users to find, book, and manage accommodations than its website had previously. The app integrated maps and other smartphone functionalities, making it more convenient for users on the go.
Wanna browse the last apps converted from websites? Check out Natively Showcase.
When it comes to deciding whether or not to convert your website into an app, the most important thing is to consider the opportunities and challenges. The first step is figuring out what will work best for your business strategy, budget, and audience.