Does HTML 5 threaten the existence of mobile apps?

The Internet uses something called Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) which is what's displayed on a page. Links to other websites, whether a text is italicized or bolded, and the presentation of that text (whether it's in paragraph of heading style) are all decided by the HTML.

However, there is a new version of HTML called HTML 5. Explained in this HTML 5 guide, HTML 5 is more capable than its predecessor. It is made up of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. This makes HTML 5 better equipped for how the Internet has changed and what type of content we look at, but it could potentially threaten the existence of mobile apps.

How HTML 5 Could Threaten the Existence of Mobile Apps

The reason why people think that HTML 5 could threaten the existence of mobile apps is because it could reduce the need for apps. One big difference between HTML and HTML 5 is that HTML 5 can display images and audio - two big features of mobile apps. Some critics think that fewer people will download a mobile app if they know that they can access that same content through their mobile browser, without having to download anything. If someone doesn't have much room on their device to download an app, HTML 5 will allow them to still access that content.

HTML 5 can be used to create complex, interactive applications, run animations, play games and view media such as films and music. It's also cross platform, meaning that unlike Android and iOS apps which have to be created for those operating systems, HTML 5 sites can work on anything without additional changes being needed. This is important because many more people are using devices like smart TVs, smartwatches and other smart devices that aren't mobile phones or tablets.

How Can Developers Prepare

App developers and content creators who don't want to lose out on traffic and revenue to competitors who have HTML 5 sites should think about making their site HTML 5 compatible. Many mobile casinos, such as NetEnt Casino, have already done this and offer some good suggestions to follow. While casino game players can access the games that they enjoy (such as slots and table games like blackjack and roulette) through casino apps, HTML 5 sites in mobile browsers are available too. Casino games are optimized for browsers and apps, meaning that anyone can access them with the right device and an Internet connection.

Many sites on the web are now using HTML 5, according to these usage statistics. 77.3% of the sites analyzed are using the digital language, compared to the 86% of sites who are using basic HTML. The growth of sites using HTML 5 has grown by approximately 7.3% since last year. This means that many developers do understand the need for HTML 5 and are thinking of how they can make their sites and apps work for all devices. However, those who aren't yet using it could be giving away market share to their competitors.