What Is a Progressive Web App?
A Progressive Web App (PWA) is a web application that runs inside a frameless browser window and behaves like a native desktop application. PWAs come with additional permissions compared to regular browser tabs, including their own system tray icon, independent notification handling, and the ability to launch on startup. They appear and function like installed apps to the user while still being powered by the browser underneath.
Managing a PWA in Google Chrome
- Type chrome://apps/ into your address bar to see all currently installed Chrome apps.
- Find the app you want to manage and right-click its icon.
- Select App Settings from the options.
- From the app settings page you can configure the app to start when you sign in, update notification permissions, adjust other site permissions, and check for updates.
- To uninstall the PWA, click the Uninstall button in the top right corner of the app settings page.
Managing a PWA in Microsoft Edge
- Type edge://apps/ into your address bar to see all currently installed Edge apps.
- Find the app you want to manage and click the three-dot menu button next to it.
- Select App Settings to manage permissions and startup behavior.
- To uninstall the PWA, click the three-dot menu next to the app and select Uninstall.
These steps apply to both Windows and Mac, though the interface may look slightly different between operating systems.