Software applications designed for Google’s Chrome browser, adapted for use on Apple’s iOS operating system, enable functionalities beyond standard web browsing on devices like iPhones and iPads. These applications are not native iOS apps downloaded from the App Store; instead, they are web applications or Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) accessed through the Chrome browser on iOS. As an example, a project management tool accessible through Chrome on iOS functions similarly to a dedicated app, offering features such as task assignment and progress tracking.
This approach offers several advantages. Developers can leverage web technologies to create cross-platform experiences, reducing the need for separate development cycles for Android and iOS. Users benefit from access to a broader range of functionalities within their preferred browser environment. Historically, this facilitated wider accessibility of services and tools, particularly before the prevalence of robust app store ecosystems. It provides an alternative distribution method, circumventing the limitations and regulations of the Apple App Store, which might be beneficial for specific application types or development models.