Recently, I've noticed a distinct trend in software development.
Applications that were once available for installation are now available through the web browser, allowing you to simply open a page and start working immediately.
It's faster, more efficient, and more versatile than ever before when switching from one platform to another.
From a developer's point of view, web apps also make sense. They require less effort to maintain and update, and there's no need to worry about compatibility with multiple platforms.
What was surprising to me was just how much content was already out there. While looking for more, I stumbled across a website called Unstore, which shows just how many applications are now accessible via browsers alone in various industries.
There seems to be a slow move towards making all software web-based rather than installing applications on our computers.
I’d be interested to know what others think about this, or whether some still prefer native applications over browser-based ones.
I believe native apps will always be faster for computer-heavy tasks (like games, video editing, realtime stuff) but the web-app trend is understandable; no version incompatibility issues, faster deployment and no muddling with different frameworks for different eco systems.
I suppose this was inevitable from the moment browsers essentially became operating systems. Besides, it’s more convenient and logical to run a program in a sort of “sandbox” rather than downloading obscure binaries and executables. API integration is simpler, closer to user thanks to Edge and serverless architecture - all in all, nothing but advantages.
Varsha Ojha
Technical Writer
Web apps are becoming the default because they’re easier to access, update, and scale. No installs, faster releases, cross device access, and simpler maintenance make them practical for most products. Native still matters, but not every idea needs an app store launch first.