HCL Commerce Version 9.1.18.0 or later

Installing a Progressive Web Application (PWA)

This topic explains how to install a Progressive Web Application (PWA).

About this task

A PWA can be promoted by the browser for installation on a device. Once installed, a PWA appears as a platform-specific application, allowing users to launch it directly from their operating system like any other app:
Browser installation on different platforms
  • Windows and Android: Many browsers display an installation prompt, enabling users to install the PWA with a single click.
  • iOS and iPadOS: Browsers do not provide an installation prompt. Instead, users must manually add the PWA to their home screen via the browser’s share menu. On these platforms, PWAs are also referred to as home screen web applications.
Publishing a PWA to application stores

By default, publishing a Progressive Web App (PWA) to app stores requires additional steps and is not automatically supported. While it is possible to publish PWAs to some app stores, the process varies by platform:

  • Google Play Store: Offers robust support for PWA publication.
  • Microsoft Store: Provides straightforward PWA integration.
  • iOS App Store: It has significant restrictions and challenges for PWA publish.

To simplify the packaging and publishing process, developers can use tools like PWABuilder, which helps generate store-compatible packages. However, success is not guaranteed, and each app store has unique requirements and review processes.

For comprehensive guidance on PWA installation and publishing, developers should consult platform-specific documentation, with MDN Web docs serving as an excellent general reference.

Procedure

Installing a PWA on windows:
  1. Open Google Chrome on your windows device.
  2. Enter your Ruby store URL in the address bar.

    For example, enter the Ruby store URL.

  3. Look for the Install button (a download or plus icon).
  4. Click the Install button and confirm the installation.
    Note: The Cancel button stops the PWA installation.
    The Ruby PWA will be added to your desktop and start menu for quick access.
  5. Once installed,
    1. The Ruby PWA opens in a standalone browser window and appears in the taskbar.
    2. Click the Yes button to pin Ruby to your taskbar.
      Note: The No, thanks button to keep Ruby unpinned from your taskbar.
  6. The Ruby PWA icon appears on the desktop.
    • You can also find the application in Windows Installed Apps.
    The application can also be found in the windows Installed Apps.

Results

The Ruby PWA has been installed successfully on your device.