Progressive Web Apps (PWAs), which Google calls web apps, let a website work like an app with its own window and icon. To install one in Chrome on a computer, open the site and select More (three dots) > Cast, save, and share > Install page as app…. This guide walks you through installing, managing, and uninstalling web apps using Chrome, following Google’s Use web apps help.
What Are Progressive Web Apps?
Progressive Web Apps are websites built to work like apps. You open them from your launcher, taskbar, Dock or home screen. According to Google, some web apps include extra features, like more storage to browse content offline, notifications, file system access, and icon badges. Some may not work completely without an internet connection.
How to Install PWAs from Chrome
The steps are the same on Windows, macOS, Linux and ChromeOS:
- Open Chrome and go to the website you want to install.
- At the top right, select More (three dots).
- Select Cast, save, and share > Install page as app…. On some websites you can instead select Install at the right of the address bar.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to finish.
Android
- Open Chrome and go to the website.
- On the right of the address bar, tap More > Install and create shortcut > Install.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
iPhone and iPad
- Open Chrome and go to the website.
- On the right of the address bar, tap Share, then tap Add to Home Screen.
- Check the details and tap Add. If the site offers a web app, the shortcut opens the app.
Managing Installed Web Apps
On a computer, you can see and manage installed web apps in Chrome:
- Copy
chrome://appsinto the address bar to see all installed web apps. - Right-click an app there to see options such as Create shortcut (for your desktop or menus) and Launch at startup.
- To change an app’s settings, open the app, select More at the top right of its window, then App info > Settings.
PWA vs Native App Differences
| Feature | PWA | Native App |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Quick and browser-based | Requires app store |
| Updates | Come from the website | Through the app store |
| Offline Support | Depends on the app | Depends on the app |
| Cross-Platform | Yes | Built separately for each platform |
Uninstalling PWAs from Chrome
On Windows, Mac or Linux:
- Open the web app you want to uninstall.
- At the top right of its window, select More > Uninstall [app name].
- To also delete the app’s data from Chrome, select Also delete data from Chrome.
- Select Remove.
On a Chromebook, right-click the app’s icon in the launcher and select Uninstall. On Android, go to your phone’s Settings > Apps > See all apps, tap the web app and tap Uninstall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install a PWA on mobile devices?
Yes. On Android, Chrome installs web apps from the menu. On iPhone and iPad, Chrome adds them to the home screen through Share > Add to Home Screen, and the website decides how much it works like an app.
Do PWAs update automatically?
Yes, PWAs update automatically as they are essentially websites. When the site is updated, the PWA reflects those changes. If an app wants to change its name or icon, Chrome asks you first. Google advises uninstalling the app if the change looks like it is trying to imitate a different app.
Are PWAs safe to use?
PWAs are generally safe to use as they are served over HTTPS, ensuring encrypted communication. It’s important to install them from reputable sources.
Is there a limit to the number of PWAs I can install?
There is no specific limit to the number of PWAs you can install, as they are lightweight and do not consume significant space.
Can I use PWAs offline?
Yes, PWAs can be used offline, but the level of offline functionality depends on how the app is designed and its caching strategies.