Mobile web or app?
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- sublocked
If you used a web service daily, which would you rather have for your phone? An app or a mobile-compatible web site?
Why?
I think as a web service, the "findability" through app stores could be a big source of traffic.
Anyone have thoughts on the subject?
- jetSkii0
Mobile websites have easier development processes. You can easily fix something without having to wait 7 days for Apple to approve your update.
- orrinward0
I tend to prefer a web app if functionality isn't lost. I don't have to be asked about upgrades and there's just no hassle with them.
I like the openness of a web app over a phone, OS specific one.
- sublocked0
Right now I'm sort of on the fence. Either way I'm going to go the HTML5 / CSS3 route.
This looks nice for x-platform apps though: http://www.appcelerator.com/
- fyoucher10
Def web service. Having to download an app, get updates, etc is such a deterrence.
- sublocked0
Much more support for web-based than anticipated. Definitely easier to develop that way!
- abettertomorrow0
I think an app could end up being used much more because its only a click away on your phone desktop screen. Its harder to remember a webpage URL.
Also with an app you can make money!
- I already make money with my service...also, you can bookmark mobile web on your app screen so that's a wash I believe.sublocked
- Bmxrider121480
It's good I'm on my iPod right now
- tgqt0
1 well designed mobile web site = 1 android app + 1 iPhone app + 1 symbian app + 1 webos app etc. etc.
The publishers like apps simply because they are NOT mobile web. An app is a new platform and is not considered 'FREE' like the web.
I use more than a few ipad and android apps. I prefer the mobile web.
- raf0
For the service you're offering, definitely a native app is something your users would appreciate.
Quick poll everyone:
When using FB on iPhone, do you use the app or mobile site? What about Twitter? eBay? What about your website analytics, do you have an app or web interface?
- I use the app or Friendly for iPad but only b/c FB's mobile version sucks assfyoucher1
- tgqt0
raf - I will install and try any free app I can find, but I usually find myself moving back to the mobile web. I have an android phone and an ipad.
- raf0
I use apps for Twitter, Facebook and eBay. My gwife likes the Flickr app. I am more likely to access iStockphoto on my mobile with the app than the website.
I think especially for a service that requires certain degree of confidentiality, a native app will feel much more secure to your clients than just a web app.
- sublocked0
I guess I only use the apps when the mobile web experience sucks.
Great example of well done mobile web UI: Gmail
Poor mobile web UI: twitter