So you’ve designed a super cool Hatch project and tailored some unique interactions to engage your audience. Now you can use your Hatch webpage as a web app that anyone can save to their dock or home screen. The video tutorial below will give you a quick overview of the process.
Web apps are usually coded in languages like HTML and JavaScript, and non-coders can use Hatch. Web apps enjoy a wide range of compatibility across all kinds of devices and are supported in nearly every browser.
Native apps vs. web apps
Native apps (mobile apps) require you to download and install them on your device, usually through an app store. The stores have limitations and restrictions on native apps, with each update requiring store approval before going live.
In contrast, a web app is hosted through a platform like Hatch and runs within your browser. This approach to app creation offers incredible advantages for accessibility and productivity. Anyone using the web app will always already be using the latest version, without requiring an update on their end. On the development side, it takes significantly less time to get a web app running and to maintain it.
Web apps can be “installed” to appear just like other apps on your device, including a one-tap icon that launches the experience. Think of it as saving a bookmark on your home screen. However, the app shares no browsing history, cookies, website data, or settings with your browser.
Go from Hatch project to web app with iOS or macOS
When you publish your Hatch project, a QR code will be generated for your page next to the project URL. Either open the camera on your device to navigate to the URL, or manually type it in.
When the project opens in Safari, tap and pull up from the share arrow 
to bring up the options and settings. You’ll then be prompted to name and add the app to your home screen.
For macOS Sonoma or later, navigate to the project in Safari, using the URL or QR code. From the menu bar, choose File > Add to Dock. Or click the Share button in the Safari toolbar, then choose Add to Dock. Name the app as you like, then click add. It will be saved to your Applications folder and you can open from your Dock, Launchpad or Spotlight search.
By using your Hatch webpage as a web app this way, there are lots of benefits to enjoy!
- One tap access to launch the experience
- Low cost to build, easy to maintain
- Perfect for projects with a limited scope
- High degree of compatibility across platforms and browsers
- Users can switch between desktop and mobile
- Independence from app store limitations
- Automatic updates
- Interactivity is key to the experience
We can’t wait to see what you create!