The world of mobile communication was changed forever with the introduction of smartphones, especially the iPhone, in the late 2000s. The debate between the mobile web and mobile apps suddenly took center stage. With its tailored websites for smaller screens, the mobile web offered users a convenient way to discover new businesses through search engines or social media, increasing the chances of acquiring new customers.

However, more than just having a website was needed. The lack of push notifications and personalized experiences meant businesses could not foster long-term relationships with their customers. It was a crucial missing piece to drive customer loyalty, which is necessary for lasting value.

This is where mobile apps stepped in. These platforms offered a solution to the challenges faced by the mobile web. Not only did they provide engagement opportunities, such as exclusive deals, but they also could personalize the experience, helping businesses build lasting relationships with their customers and resulting in higher customer lifetime values.

As time passed, technology advanced, and businesses had more choices to provide their customers with a mobile experience. The decision between app vs website and an app depends on each company’s unique needs. However, both options had valuable advantages, making them worth considering.

Mobile apps offer an enhanced customer experience

Apps specifically designed for mobile devices offered a new world of possibilities. With the ability to access device features like the camera, GPS, and notifications, the shopping experience became much more personalized and enjoyable.

Take push notifications, for example. Mobile apps can send customers real-time alerts about new product releases or sales, allowing them never to miss a great deal. This feature is not possible on mobile websites, as they lack the ability to send notifications to customers directly.

Single sign-on is another frustration customers face on mobile websites. Constantly having to login and navigate different screens is a tedious task, but mobile apps solved this issue. With a short tap, customers can access their accounts and start shopping. This convenience helps foster customer loyalty and engagement for businesses.

Finally, mobile apps offer an immersive experience for customers, with an interface specifically designed for mobile devices. This allowed for a more enjoyable and user-friendly shopping experience and offered new possibilities for businesses to deepen the shopping journey for customers through features like personalized recommendations.

Mobile websites offer easy access

Accessibility is the first advantage. With just an internet connection, mobile websites can be accessed by a wider audience. Cost-effectiveness is another benefit. Building a mobile website is more budget-friendly than a mobile app, which demands a significant investment. Mobile websites are also easier to develop, meaning D2C brands can easily make changes and updates. This is particularly beneficial for brands that frequently update their offerings.

However, it’s important to note that mobile websites also have limitations. They can’t match the functionality and engagement of mobile apps, lacking features like push notifications and single sign-on. Mobile websites can also be slow to load and may only perform well on some devices, affecting user experience. D2C brands must weigh both advantages and limitations to choose the best approach for their business.

When it comes to growing your business, the question of a mobile website or a native app arises. But, the answer to this age-old debate is unique to each business. No two companies are alike, even if they serve the same audience and operate in the same industry.

Your business strategies and customer service set you apart. So, let’s explore the factors that can help you make an informed decision.

Cost matters, but there are affordable solutions

• Building a mobile app can be costly, especially when hiring outside development agencies. The development cost can quickly skyrocket due to various factors, such as the app’s complexity, the number of platforms it needs to be built for, and the hourly rates of the development team.
• Fortunately, companies have emerged that offer cost-friendly solutions for building mobile apps. By utilizing in-house development teams, streamlining processes, and leveraging technology, companies like ours can build top-notch mobile apps at a fraction of the cost compared to traditional development agencies. 

Know your target audience

• Consider who will be using your platform when making decisions
• Different demographics may prefer other technology options (e.g., millennials vs. busy professionals)
• Research shows a correlation between mobile website users and app usage

Functionality and user experience

• Mobile apps can take advantage of device features (e.g., camera, microphone)
• Consider if your products or services require these features when deciding between a native app or website. It also depends on which stage of the business you are in. While mobile websites are better for early stages, mobile apps are a must for brands entering the scale stage.

Time to launch

• Building a mobile app is also time-intensive, with projects often taking several months or even years to complete. This is due to the various stages involved, such as planning, design, development, testing, and deployment. When you hire an outside agency, you also need to consider their schedules and timelines, which can further extend the time it takes to complete the project. But if you plan, you should be able to achieve it. 
• Mobile websites on the other hand may be a better choice for quicker reach to customers in the early stages.

A final secret…

The journey to finding the right mobile app builder can be overwhelming. With Apptile, businesses no longer have to choose between quality and affordability. Our innovative approach to mobile app development ensures that companies can achieve their desired outcomes and stand out in a crowded market, even on a budget. Our team of experts carefully crafts a custom solution for each business, considering their specific needs and goals. So, why settle for less when you can have the best?

At Apptile, our goal is to empower you to create personalized experiences that showcase your brand in the best possible light irrespective of your business size or budget.

Get started now and create stunning mobile apps in seconds without any coding. Book a demo with our team to see how Apptile can help you transform your business for the mobile era. We would love to hear more about your brand’s mobile app vision and help you bring it to life. Also, follow us to stay ahead of the eCommerce game and join the conversation today!