How to turn a website into an app with Chrome

Imagine being able to access your favorite sites directly from your desktop, without having to open the browser and manually search for each page. Turning a website into an app is one of the most practical features of Google Chrome, as it allows you to manage pages as if they were independent applications. In this article we will explain in depth how it is done, its and advantages, disadvantages and how these solutions have evolved with There.

While this option may seem simple, many people are unaware of its existence. Whether you use Windows, Mac, Linux o Android, integrating your favorite websites into your device's interface can save time and offer more direct access.

What is a web application?

A web application, Also called web app, is basically a site that runs through the browser but with features similar to those native appsUnlike the latter, it does not require installation on the device and can be accessed from any compatible browser, such as Chrome, safari o Firefox.

Among its main advantages is that the web apps They can run on any operating system and do not need constant updates as changes are applied directly from the server. This also reduces the dependency on app stores such as Google Play o App Store.

Advantages of converting a website into an application

By converting a website into an app, you get benefits such as:

• Direct access: You can open the page from the desktop or start menu without entering Chrome.
• Minimalist appearance: You don't have the typical distractions of browser toolbars or tabs.
• Further integration: In some cases, you can even pin these apps to your computer's taskbar, just like regular programs.

For example, services such as gmail, Spotify o Netflix They can be turned into apps for easy everyday use.

How to create a web app in Chrome

Creating a web app from Chrome is a simple process and can be done in just a few steps:

1. Open Google Chrome and type the URL of the site you want to convert.
2. Click the three vertical dots in the upper right corner to open the options menu.
3. Choose More tools > Create shortcut. *Update: In newer versions of Chrome it appears Stream, save, and share instead of “More tools.” 
4. In the dialog box that appears, enter a name for the app and select the option Open as window.

Once done, you will have an icon on your desktop that will open the page in a separate window, without the distractions of the browser.

Differences between native apps and web apps

The native apps, like those downloads from an app store, are designed to take advantage of the resources of a specific device. On the other hand, web apps They work directly from the browser and do not depend on the operating system.

In addition, while the native apps require installation and periodic updates, the web apps They do not require these actions, which makes their maintenance and use easier.

How to uninstall a web application

If at any time you decide to delete a web application, the process is just as simple:

• Open Chrome and type chrome://apps in the search bar.
• Right click on the application you want to remove.
• Choose uninstall and confirm the action.

This will remove both the shortcut and any data related to the app.

Limitations of web applications

Although web apps are very convenient, they have certain limitations. For example, they depend on a Internet connection to function properly. In addition, they cannot always access all of the device's resources, such as the camera o GPS. Despite this, they are still a valuable tool for working with websites that you frequently consult.

Progressive Apps: The Future of Web Apps

The progressive applications o PWA are revolutionizing the concept of web apps, offering similar characteristics to those of the native appsFor example, they can operate without Internet connection and access resources such as the GPS. Services like Google Maps They already implement this technology, making access from the browser almost identical to using an installed app.

We have explored how to take advantage of one of the most useful features of Google Chrome: transforming websites into applications. This practice will allow you to improve your user experience and manage your favorite sites more efficiently. In addition, progressive applications are marking a before and after, merging the best of both worlds.