Pros –
Cons –
- Supports multimedia without plugin - It is the first version to support multimedia without plugins and has the ability to be “understood” by all computers and devices.
- HTML5 web apps can be accessed on any device via a web browser - Much like a mobile website. These web apps also provide the capability for offline access and usage via application cache, meaning you don’t have to have a network connection to use them.
- Single web app rather than multiple native apps - Some have predicted the impending demise of the native app.
- Ability to bypass app stores – This presents an additional advantage for companies that use mobile apps to engage consumers in purchase transactions.
- Makes things easier - HTML 5 is aimed at making things easier to build search front-ends, wikis, real-time chat, drag-and-drop tools, discussion boards and many other modern web elements into any site, and have them work more efficiently.
Cons –
- Security issues - HTML5 web apps are set up in a way that ultra-savvy users could tamper with processing scripts, which might allow unauthorized access. Variables could be altered in a way that would allow hackers to access perks, discounts, etc. for which they really aren’t eligible.
- Functionality does not rival that of a native app (not yet anyway) - Most say that it’s pretty good, but it’s no native app. It will be a while yet before web apps can offer the speed and features of a native app. It’s important to remember that consumers use native apps because they’re easy, fast and convenient. Also, better integration with hardware and other apps.
- You lose the marketing benefits of being featured in app stores - If you are a smaller company, new and potential customers are probably more likely to find you if you’re featured in an app store.
Strategic decision-makers for successful apps should weigh the importance of the following:
- User experience
- Performance
- Monetization
- Cross platform deployment costs
- Fragmentation
- Availability of programming expertise
- Importance of immediate updates and distribution control
- Timeliness of new OS innovations
- Security
When does using HTML5 make sense?
The short answer: When the information is always updating; you don’t want Apple or Google as intermediaries, or if the user doesn't want to download an application.
Note: Above comparison may not hold true for hybrid container-based apps that run in a native shell
Note: Above comparison may not hold true for hybrid container-based apps that run in a native shell