Apache Cordova vs PWA: What are the differences?

Apache Cordova is a framework that allows developers to build mobile applications using web technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, while Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) are web applications that leverage modern web capabilities to provide a native app-like experience across different devices and platforms. Let's explore the key differences between them.

1. Platform Accessibility: Apache Cordova is a platform that allows developers to create mobile applications using web development technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. These applications can be packaged and deployed on multiple platforms like iOS, Android, and Windows. On the other hand, PWAs are web applications that can be accessed through a web browser and are not bound to any specific platform. They can be accessed on various devices including desktops, smartphones, and tablets.

2. Installation and App Store Distribution: Apache Cordova applications need to be installed on the device through app stores or by downloading the application package, similar to native mobile applications. In contrast, PWAs do not require installation and can be accessed directly through a web browser. However, PWAs can also be distributed through app stores if desired.

3. Offline Capability: Apache Cordova applications can have offline capabilities by utilizing features like local storage, caching, and accessing device hardware. This allows users to access certain functionalities even without an internet connection. On the other hand, PWAs have built-in offline capabilities using the Service Worker API, which enables caching of assets and data, providing offline functionality to the user.

4. Access to Native Device Features: Apache Cordova applications have access to native device features like camera, accelerometer, and contacts through plugins. These plugins bridge the gap between web technologies and native functionalities. In contrast, PWAs have limited access to native device features and can only interact with a subset of the device's capabilities through standardized web APIs.

5. Updates and Maintenance: Apache Cordova applications require manual updates, either through app store updates or manual installations of newer versions. This can sometimes lead to fragmentation if users do not update their installed applications. On the other hand, PWAs are automatically updated in the background whenever the user accesses them. This ensures that users always have the latest version of the application without any manual intervention.

6. Performance and User Experience: Apache Cordova applications run in a WebView, which introduces a small performance overhead due to the bridge between web technologies and the native platform. This can result in a slightly slower user experience compared to native applications. In contrast, PWAs run in the web browser, leveraging the optimizations of modern browsers, resulting in a smoother and faster user experience.

In summary, Apache Cordova enables developers to create mobile applications that can be distributed through app stores and offer access to native device capabilities using plugins. PWAs, on the other hand, are web applications that leverage modern web APIs to provide features like offline access, push notifications, and installation prompts, delivering a seamless experience across different devices and platforms. While Cordova apps are packaged and distributed like native mobile apps, PWAs are accessed through a URL and do not require installation from an app store, making them more discoverable and accessible.