Hybrid apps refer to those apps developed using a “wrapper.” Similar to web-based apps, developers use HTML and JavaScript to write the app but then the code is “wrapped” into native code by a third party, enabling access to some of the device features which were not available with regular web-based app development. Where this development method seems to provide the benefits of both web-based app development and native app development without the need to code different versions of the app for each platform there are many drawbacks such as third party reliance, performance, and difficulty ensuring delivery of a consistent and reliable UI across all devices.
Boasted as a new option to hybrid app development, Tabris.js is a JavaScript framework which allows you to use JavaScript to develop cross-platform apps with native UIs. It can be implemented entirely in JavaScript with common web APIs, allowing the extension of any kind of native functionality you may need. Since Tabris.js doesn’t use “webviews” traditionally used by web-based apps it provides a better user experience. And since Tabris.js doesn’t rely on a third party “wrapper” the performance is better than hybrid apps. Apps developed using Tabris.js can be downloaded from Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Search for Tabris in these app stores and you will find demos which demonstrate the native functionality available with the use of Tabris.js such as location, camera, video, and more. Tabris.js makes use of RAP Client Services to access this type of device functionality. Tabris.js is just getting started and you have to be invited to have access to their documentation and updates at this time. While Tabris.js seems to be the best alternative (at this time) to developing separate native apps for each platform, I don’t believe we will see the drawbacks of using Tabris.js until its usage gets a little more mainstream.
Web Based Apps - Amazon App Store or Tabris.js
