Definition:
An app is a software application designed to perform specific tasks, such as communicating, finding information, shopping or managing documents. The term is an abbreviation of application and is used particularly for mobile applications, although it can also refer to desktop or web applications.
Mobile apps are usually downloaded from stores such as Google Play or Apple’s App Store. Once installed, they can be opened from the device. Other applications are used through a browser without requiring a conventional installation.
When the first applications appeared
Software applications existed before smartphones and app stores. Computers and earlier mobile devices already had programs for tasks such as managing contacts, checking calendars or playing games.
The opening of Apple’s App Store in 2008 was a milestone in mobile app distribution, not the birth of applications. Stores made it easier for users to find, download and update programs in one place.
The evolution of devices and connectivity expanded their capabilities, from communication and banking to games and location-based services.
What types of apps exist
Applications can be classified according to their purpose. A single app can combine features from several categories:
- Communication: allow users to exchange messages, make calls or hold meetings, as with WhatsApp.
- Productivity: support tasks such as taking notes, organizing calendars, editing documents or managing budgets.
- News and information: offer current affairs content, weather forecasts or sports results.
- Games: range from puzzles to multiplayer or augmented reality experiences.
- Shopping and e-commerce: allow users to browse products, place orders and manage purchases.
- Music streaming: provide access to music catalogs and playlists.
- Social networks: allow users to publish content and interact with other people or communities.
- Health and physical activity: help users record workouts, habits or certain tracking data.
- Education and learning: offer courses, exercises and materials to develop knowledge or skills.
- Travel and mapping: support route planning, navigation and map viewing.
This classification describes what an application is used for, not how it is developed or where it runs.
Differences between web apps and native apps
Web applications are used through a browser. Their interface generally uses HTML, CSS and JavaScript, while some processing and storage may take place on servers.
It is incorrect to state that they cannot access the camera or location. Browsers provide interfaces for using certain device features, subject to permissions, security requirements and compatibility. Available capabilities vary between browsers and operating systems.
Native applications are developed for a specific platform, such as Android or iOS, and use its tools and interfaces. They can integrate with system features, although they are also subject to permissions and restrictions.
Progressive web apps, known as PWAs, use web technologies and can offer installation on the device, partial offline operation and other forms of integration. These possibilities depend on their implementation and browser support.
A native application does not by itself guarantee a better experience, nor does a web application necessarily offer the same features. The result depends on the design, development and capabilities required by each service.
Differences between web applications and web pages
A web page is a document accessible through a browser that can contain text, images, video and interactive elements. A website brings together related pages and resources.
The term web application is generally used when a service allows users to perform tasks, such as editing a document, managing a bank account or placing an order. Its purpose is not limited to displaying information.
The distinction is not absolute. A single site can combine informational pages with application features. For example, a store may include articles about its products and a system for managing the cart and completing a purchase.
Both use web technologies. The difference lies mainly in the tasks they support and how they work, not in one having images and the other using JavaScript.