Fact Check: Are PWAs dead?

Are PWAs Dead?

The claim that "Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) are dead" has circulated in various tech discussions, prompting a closer examination of the current state and future potential of PWAs. This claim suggests a decline in relevance or viability for PWAs in the face of competing technologies, particularly native applications. However, the reality appears to be more nuanced, with ongoing support and development for PWAs across multiple platforms.

What We Know

1. Definition and Functionality: PWAs are web applications that utilize modern web capabilities to deliver an app-like experience directly from the browser. They are designed to work offline, send push notifications, and be installable on devices, blurring the lines between traditional websites and native applications 8.

2. Current Support: Major browsers, including Google Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Safari, continue to support PWAs. This indicates that PWAs are still relevant and are likely to remain a significant part of web technology 1.

3. Market Trends: According to a survey by Top Design Firms, 48% of small businesses had a mobile app in 2022, with many considering PWAs as an alternative due to their lower development costs and ease of updates 6. Additionally, large companies have expanded their support for PWAs in 2023, suggesting a sustained interest in the technology 4.

4. Comparative Analysis: While PWAs offer advantages such as a single code base and instant updates, they are often perceived as less capable than native apps for performance-intensive applications, particularly those requiring advanced device features 57.

5. Future Outlook: Analysts suggest that PWAs have the potential to evolve further, leveraging modern web standards to enhance user experiences. They are seen as a viable option for businesses looking to balance cost and functionality 9.

Analysis

The claim regarding the death of PWAs appears to stem from a misunderstanding of their current status and potential.

• Source Reliability: The sources cited vary in credibility. For instance, articles from established tech blogs and industry experts (e.g., Steadfast Collective 3 and NeoITO 9) provide informed perspectives on the evolution and current relevance of PWAs. However, some sources, such as Medium articles, may reflect personal opinions rather than comprehensive analyses, which could introduce bias 27.

• Bias and Conflicts of Interest: Some articles may have an inherent bias, particularly those from companies that develop or promote PWAs, as they may downplay the challenges PWAs face compared to native apps. For example, the article from Cloudflight 4 could be seen as promoting PWAs due to their business interests in web technologies.

• Methodological Concerns: Many discussions around PWAs lack quantitative data to support claims about their decline or growth. For a more thorough understanding, it would be beneficial to have empirical studies comparing user engagement and performance metrics between PWAs and native apps across various sectors.

• Contradicting Views: While some sources assert that PWAs are still relevant and evolving, others highlight the challenges they face in gaining traction against native apps, particularly in specific use cases like gaming or applications requiring extensive hardware integration 56.

Conclusion

Verdict: False

The claim that "Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) are dead" is false. Evidence indicates that PWAs continue to receive support from major browsers and are being adopted by businesses as a cost-effective alternative to native applications. Key points supporting this conclusion include the ongoing development of PWAs, their integration into business strategies, and the backing of significant web technologies.

However, it is important to note that while PWAs are not "dead," they do face challenges, particularly in performance-intensive scenarios where native apps may excel. The perception of PWAs as less capable than native applications persists, which may contribute to the narrative of their decline.

Additionally, the evidence available is not exhaustive; many discussions lack quantitative data, and some sources may exhibit bias based on their affiliations. Therefore, while the current state of PWAs appears promising, the landscape is dynamic, and further empirical research would enhance understanding.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information regarding PWAs and consider the nuances involved in discussions about their relevance and future potential.

Sources

1. VirtualSpirit. "Is the Progressive Web App (PWA) Still Relevant in 2023?" Link
2. Patewar, Sushant. "PWA: Progressive Web Apps in 2023." Medium. Link
3. Steadfast Collective. "Are Progressive Web Apps Dead?" Link
4. Cloudflight. "Should you invest in a PWA in 2024?" Link
5. Top Flight Apps. "Progressive Web Apps (PWA) vs. Native Apps in 2025: Pros And Cons." Link
6. DevPro Journal. "Progressive Web Apps (PWAs): the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly." Link
7. Basset, Kevin. "Why haven't PWAs killed native apps yet?" Medium. Link
8. Enonic. "The State of Progressive Web Apps 2025." Link
9. NeoITO Blog. "The Future of PWA and Web Apps in 2023." Link
10. Hacker News. "Apple reverses course on death of Progressive Web Apps." Link