How to Convert a Website to an iOS App
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April 8, 2025
Want to convert your website into an iOS app? Whether you're running an eCommerce store, a service platform, or a content site, turning your website into an iPhone app can dramatically boost engagement, retention, and mobile revenue.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to convert a website to an iOS app step-by-step — from choosing between PWA, native, and hybrid apps to selecting tools and calculating the budget. Plus: you’ll learn the fastest and most affordable ways to turn your website into an iPhone app — even without writing code.
Want to know how much it actually costs to turn a website into an iOS app? Use our App Cost Calculator. It's free, takes 3 minutes, and gives you a clear plan with pricing, timeline, and must-have features.
Convert Website to iOS App Like Flipkart Did: Real Case Study
Introduction
In 2015, Flipkart faced a widespread challenge: their mobile website struggled to keep users engaged. Slow-loading pages drove many visitors away before they could complete a purchase. They needed a solution that delivered a smoother experience, especially for users on low-bandwidth networks—a common issue in India.
The PWA Solution
Instead of sticking with their mobile site, Flipkart launched Flipkart Lite, a Progressive Web App (PWA). A PWA is a web-based application that mimics the feel of a native app, offering features like offline access and push notifications while remaining as accessible as a website—no download required.
To optimize for users with limited data, Flipkart implemented service workers for caching, optimized images, and used lazy loading, slashing data usage significantly.
Results
The impact was striking:
Additionally, nearly 70% of new customers from smaller towns and villages came via the PWA, highlighting its broad reach.
Flipkart’s shift to a PWA wasn’t just a tech upgrade—it tackled real user pain points like slow load times and high data consumption. By 2019, these results still underscored the approach’s lasting value, proving how PWAs can transform mobile experiences and boost business metrics.
Discover how PWAs fit into how to convert a website to an iOS app and save costs here.
How to Convert a Website to an iOS App: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Evaluate Your Website's Features and Content
The first step in converting your website into an iOS app is knowing which features truly matter to your users. Not every part of your website belongs in an app—focus on features that drive engagement and solve real customer problems. Here's how to do it, step by step.
Step 1: Analyze Your Website Traffic
Use tools like Google Analytics or Hotjar to identify:
- Most visited pages: These are your app's must-haves. Look at metrics like pageviews and time spent on pages (e.g., product listings, or dashboards).
- High-exit pages: If users frequently leave from certain pages, consider improving their experience in the app.
In Google Analytics, go to Behavior> Site Content > All Pages to see which parts of your site get the most attention.
Step 2: Identify Mobile Pain Points
Analyze feedback and Behavior to understand what frustrates your mobile users:
- Use Session Replay Tools (e.g., Hotjar, FullStory) to watch how users interact with your site.
- Look at mobile user bounce rates in Google Analytics. High rates may indicate that users need help to complete actions like checkouts or form submissions.
If your checkout process has a high bounce rate, plan for a simplified, one-tap process in your app using tools like Apple Pay integration.
Step 3: Map Essential Features
Ask yourself:
- What drives revenue? Prioritize these features (e.g., fast product browsing or seamless booking).
- What needs improvement? Identify parts of your site that are clunky or slow and plan to enhance them in the app.
Use Miro or Lucidchart to create a visual flowchart of your website's core features and map how they should function in the app.
Step 4: Get Customer Feedback
Ask your current users what they want from an app:
- Run a survey using tools like Typeform or Google Forms.
- Use website pop-ups with Qualtrics or Hotjar Polls to collect insights directly from users.
Question Examples:
- "What would make using our platform easier for you?"
- "What features would you love to see in a mobile app?"
Your Plan Should Look Like This:
1. Create a prioritized list of features by analyzing your website traffic and collecting customer feedback. Use tools like Google Analytics for data and Hotjar Polls for user insights.
2. Separate must-haves from nice-to-haves. Focus first on the features that are essential for user satisfaction and engagement, such as:
- Product Pages: Make browsing seamless with intuitive navigation and clear CTAs.
- Accounts: Offer fast logins, personalized dashboards, and order history.
- Checkout: Implement one-tap payment options like Apple Pay for faster conversions.
Learn which MVP features to prioritize and how they impact app development costs here.
3. Use this prioritized list to design your MVP (Minimum Viable Product). This ensures your app is lean, functional, and aligned with user expectations from the start.
By focusing on the features that matter most and avoiding unnecessary complexity, you’ll create an app that solves real customer problems and provides immediate value.
2. PWA vs Native iOS App vs Hybrid: What’s Best for Your Website?
Don’t just pick the cheapest option—choose the one that aligns with your goals, whether it’s user experience, scalability, or time to market.
1. Define your priorities.
- Do you need premium performance and user experience? Go with a native iOS app.
- Do you want cross-platform reach on a budget? Choose a hybrid app.
- Are you looking for a quick, cost-effective solution? Start with a PWA.
2. Talk to an expert.
Tools like Flutter or Swift can feel overwhelming if you’re new to app development. Consult a developer to determine the best approach for your business goals.
Find the best experts to guide your app development in our listing of top Flutter development companies.
3. Think long-term.
A PWA might be a good starting point, but if your business is scaling quickly, investing in a native or hybrid app early can save time and money later.
App Type Comparison Table
3. Tools to Convert Website to iPhone App (With and Without Code)
Frameworks for iOS Development
Flutter: If you’re looking to develop for both iOS and Android with minimal costs and quicker turnaround, Flutter is a reliable choice.
Learn about Flutter's strengths, weaknesses, and how to overcome them from our lead Flutter developer, Sukhrob Djumaev, here.
Swift/SwiftUI: For apps designed specifically for iOS, Swift offers the best performance and seamless integration with Apple features like Face ID, gestures, and native animations. It’s the right fit if you want to prioritize user experience on Apple devices.
No-Code Tools to Convert Website to iOS App (Free & Fast)
If you need a fast and budget-friendly way to turn your website into an iOS app, the following no-code tools can help. They're ideal for basic use cases and MVP validation, and some of them offer completely free plans:
These platforms work well if you’re just starting out and need to test your idea quickly. However, keep in mind that:
- Performance and UX will be limited compared to native or hybrid apps.
- You won’t have full access to iOS features like Apple Pay, Face ID, or advanced animations.
- They’re best suited for content-based apps, simple catalogs, or platforms with minimal interactivity.
If you’re aiming for a scalable, user-first iOS experience, scroll down to explore frameworks like Flutter or Swift.
4. Plan Essential iOS App Features for Success
Focusing on the features that truly matter is crucial to meeting your users' expectations and achieving your business goals.
1. Deep Linking
Enable users to jump straight to specific pages in your app from external links or your website. For example, clicking on a product link in an email should take them directly to that product in the app.
2. Push Notifications
Stay connected with your users by sending real-time alerts about offers, abandoned carts, or personalized updates.
Push notifications have an open rate of up to 90%, making them one of the most effective tools for re-engaging users and boosting conversions.
3. Offline Access
Allow users to access important content, such as saved articles, forms, or product catalogs, even without an internet connection.
4. Fast Checkout
Streamline the checkout process for eCommerce apps by integrating payment solutions like Apple Pay.
5. Personalization
Add features like user accounts, saved preferences, and tailored recommendations. Show recently viewed items or suggest products based on past behavior.
Latest iOS App Features to Boost Customer Engagement
Discover a complete guide to modern app features across industries, including costs and tech stack recommendations, in this article.
5. Integrate Your App With Existing Systems
Connecting your app to your existing systems ensures users get a smooth, unified experience while simplifying your operations. Done right, it saves time, reduces duplicate work, and keeps your data reliable.
Sync Your App With Key Systems
- CRM Integration: Link your app with your CRM to manage user profiles, track activity, and sync purchase history. This allows you to deliver targeted marketing campaigns and personalized experiences.
- CMS Integration: Connect your app to your content system so updates like blog posts, product details, or news are reflected in real time. This is crucial for content-driven platforms.
- Payment Systems: Integrate payment solutions like Stripe, PayPal, or Apple Pay for secure and seamless transactions, especially for eCommerce apps.
Use reliable APIs to ensure data syncs instantly and accurately across platforms.
Ensure a Unified User Experience
To make your app feel like an extension of your website:
- Allow single logins so users don’t need separate credentials.
- Sync order history and preferences like saved carts or wishlists across both platforms.
- Test real-time updates—for example, an item added to the cart on your website should instantly appear in the app.
By integrating key systems thoughtfully, you streamline both your customer’s journey and your internal processes.
6. Test and Optimize the App for iOS Devices
If you’re not developing the app yourself, you’ll likely hire an outsourced development team. To ensure they deliver a high-quality product, focus on clear performance metrics that reflect the app’s functionality, reliability, and user experience.
Key App Testing Metrics and How to Verify Them
iOS App Cost: How Much to Turn a Website Into an App?
Let’s be honest: the cost of converting your website into an iOS app depends on many moving parts. Are you looking for something simple—a clean, mobile-friendly version of your website? Or are you aiming for a feature-rich app that feels tailor-made for your users?
Here’s what really influences the price:
- The simpler the app, the lower the cost: Basic apps with minimal features are quicker to develop. But the price goes up if you need advanced options like push notifications, offline access, or integrations with systems like CRM or payment gateways.
- The level of design customization: A simple app can use ready-made templates, but if you’re looking for a custom UI/UX that matches your brand, expect higher costs.
- Backend integrations: Connecting your app to existing systems like CMS (for content) or payment gateways takes extra time but adds huge value for your users.
- Tools and development approach: Native iOS apps (Swift/Swift UI) offer the best performance but require more work. Cross-platform solutions like Flutter can reduce time and costs by covering iOS and Android at once.
Want to know how app development costs vary by app type — like marketplaces, fintech, or social platforms? Check out our full breakdown by app category here.
iOS App Development Cost Breakdown
App type affects not only performance and UX — but also cost. See how each option stacks up below.
Want a precise cost tailored to your app idea? Try our AI-powered tool.
When NOT to Convert Your Site to an App
Converting your website to an iOS app sounds exciting — but it's not always the right move. Here’s when you might want to hold off:
1. 90%+ of Your Traffic Comes from Desktop or SEO
If most of your users visit via desktop and rely on long-form content or Google search — don’t rush into building an app. Mobile apps aren’t SEO-indexed like websites, so you’ll lose discoverability without gaining much engagement.
Optimize your mobile website. It’ll cost less and keep your traffic flowing.
2. You Haven’t Validated the Idea Yet
If you haven’t validated your offer or content through user interviews, analytics, or basic A/B tests — building an app is premature. You'll end up digitizing guesswork.
Use tools like Typeform, Hotjar, or even a simple landing page to test your assumptions first.
3. You Don’t Have a Budget for Maintenance
Apps aren't “set it and forget it.” They require regular updates, iOS compatibility fixes, App Store compliance, and user support. If your dev budget ends after launch — skip the app for now.
Start with a Progressive Web App (PWA). It behaves like an app but updates like a website — lighter on your wallet.
4. Your Website is Static or Informational
If your site is basically a business card — a few pages, no user accounts, no actions to take — an app won’t add value. People won’t download it just to “read about you.”
Make sure your website is mobile-optimized and fast. That’s all you need for now.
5. You Expect the App to Magically Increase Sales
An app can improve retention and UX — but it won’t fix a bad funnel or a product nobody wants. If conversions are low, start with CRO and UX audits before spending on development.
Focus on solving user pain points first — then build an app around that.
If your product-market fit is shaky, your site is low on traffic, or your budget’s tight — fix that first. Then come back and build something people actually want to keep on their home screen.
FAQ: How to Convert Website to iOS App for Free or Fast
Can I convert a PWA to an iOS app?
Yes — a Progressive Web App (PWA) can be wrapped inside a native container to run as an iOS app. Tools like Capacitor or WebView enable this by embedding your PWA in a native shell that meets App Store requirements.
For example, you can use Capacitor to access native iOS APIs while keeping your PWA structure intact.
What’s the best free tool to convert a website to an iPhone app?
PWABuilder is one of the best free tools to convert a website into a mobile app. It generates a Progressive Web App that mimics native app behavior and supports iOS installation (with some limitations).
Other tools like AppMySite and Convertify also offer free tiers — ideal for testing before you scale.
Can I turn a mobile-friendly website into an iOS app?
Yes, a responsive website can be turned into an iOS app using wrappers like WebView or through PWA conversion. However, to be accepted into the App Store, the app must offer value beyond just displaying your site.
Tip: Add features like offline mode, push notifications, or native navigation to improve approval chances.
How do I make my website open as an app?
Your website can open as an app by converting it into a Progressive Web App (PWA) or wrapping it in a native app framework. For example, PWAs allow users to install your website directly on their devices without using app stores, combining website accessibility with app-like functionality.
Can a website be turned into a mobile app?
Yes, a website can be turned into a mobile app using Progressive Web Apps (PWAs), hybrid frameworks like Flutter, or native development for platforms like iOS or Android. For example, many businesses use PWAs for quick and cost-effective solutions, while native apps provide superior performance and user experience.
How much does it cost to convert a website into an iOS app?
The cost to convert a website into an iOS app ranges from $5,000 to $50,000, depending on the app's complexity, features, and design customization. For example, a basic app might cost around $5,000, while an advanced app with offline functionality and integrations can exceed $20,000.
For a quick and accurate estimate tailored to your needs, try our free App Cost Calculator.
What is the difference between a mobile app and a web app?
A mobile app is a software application built specifically for a device and installed through an app store, offering offline functionality and native features. In contrast, a web app runs in a browser, requires an internet connection, and offers limited device integration, like PWAs.
Can I make an app that just links to my website?
Yes, you can create an app that links to your website using WebView or PWA technology. For example, WebView wraps your website in a native app container, allowing users to access it as an app while maintaining the site's functionality.
What website can I use to make an app?
Websites like Convertify, AppMySite, and BuildFire offer tools to convert your website into a mobile app. For example, Convertify specializes in quickly creating apps by wrapping your website into a native iOS or Android framework.
How to embed a website in an app?
You can embed a website in an app using WebView, a tool available in frameworks like Swift or Flutter. For instance, WebView acts as a browser within your app, allowing users to access your website’s content while maintaining the app’s look and feel.
Can you convert a web app to iOS?
Yes, you can convert a web app to iOS by using frameworks like Swift, React Native, or Flutter. For example, a web app built with responsive design can be integrated into a native iOS app using these tools for better performance and user experience.
Which app type is best for my business: PWA, native, or hybrid?
The best app type depends on your business needs. PWAs are cost-effective and quick to deploy, native apps offer the best performance and features, while hybrid apps balance cost and cross-platform reach. For example, PWAs are ideal for small businesses, whereas native apps suit high-performance e-commerce platforms.
Why Choose Ptolemay for Your iOS App?
At Ptolemay, we combine technical excellence with business-driven solutions. Whether you need a Flutter-based cross-platform app or a fully optimized Native iOS app, we deliver products that perform seamlessly and scale effortlessly.
We’ve developed apps for over 100 successful projects, including e-commerce platforms with seamless Apple Pay integration and fintech solutions ensuring compliance with GDPR and HIPAA standards.
Our recent collaboration with a leading education startup helped them scale their app to 50,000 users within six months, reducing churn by 30% through personalized AI-powered features.
With Ptolemay, you’re not just getting an app—you’re getting a tool that engages users and delivers measurable business growth.
Our proprietary project management approach, refined over 100+ app launches, ensures we deliver MVPs in 30% less time without compromising quality.
Take the First Step Toward Your iOS App
Transforming your website into an iOS app doesn’t have to be a guessing game. Start with a clear foundation: a detailed plan that covers features, tech stack, cost, and timelines.
At Ptolemay, we combine cutting-edge technology with a deep understanding of business goals to build apps that don’t just work—they deliver measurable growth. Let’s turn your vision into a high-performing app your users will love.
Get your personalized app plan here and move forward with clarity and precision.
Meet Our Expert Flutter Development Team
Our full-cycle Flutter development team at Ptolemay specializes in building high-quality, cross-platform apps from start to finish. With expert skills in Dart, backend integrations, and seamless UX across iOS and Android, we handle everything to make your app launch smooth and efficient.
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