How to Create an App from a Website | 2025 Guide

Turning your website into an app is one of the best ways to enhance your digital presence, engage users, and grow your business.

With most internet traffic coming from mobile devices and 85% of users favoring apps over mobile sites, there's never been a better time to invest in transforming your website into an app.

This guide will walk you through how to create an app from a website, exploring the benefits, methods, and actionable steps to help you get started.

Whether you aim to boost customer engagement, improve conversion rates, or stay ahead of competitors, this guide will set you on the right path.

Why Turn Your Website Into an App?

Before jumping into the process, it’s essential to understand the benefits of creating an app from a website:

1. Better User Experience

Apps provide an optimized interface and seamless navigation designed specifically for mobile devices. Unlike websites, apps can fully utilize native device features like cameras, GPS, and push notifications, making interactions smoother and faster.

2. Ease of Access

Apps live on users’ home screens. Launching an app is as simple as a single tap, while visiting a website often requires opening a browser and typing in a URL. This ease of access significantly increases user engagement.

3. Push Notifications for Direct Communication

Unlike email marketing, push notifications go straight to the user’s device. Whether you want to announce a sale or share updates, push notifications keep your brand top-of-mind without the hassle of email open rates.

4. Increased Conversions

Did you know mobile apps convert 157% better than websites? Apps facilitate faster checkout processes, offer personalized experiences, and allow loyalty tracking, all of which drive higher revenue.

5. Competitive Advantage

If your competitors have an app, not having one can make you appear outdated. If they don't, you can beat them to the punch, gaining a significant edge in customer loyalty and market share.

6. Offline Support

Unlike websites that require constant internet access, mobile apps can provide offline support for certain features,ensuring users can still benefit even when they’re not connected.

For more insights into the advantages of mobile apps, check out Statista's mobile app statistics.

Methods to Create an App From a Website

There are several ways to transform a website into an app, each with its costs, customization options, and scalability. Below are the most popular methods with their pros and cons:

1. Website-to-App Conversion Tools

Tools like BuildFire make creating apps easy by repurposing your existing website into an app. While they’re quick and affordable, they can be limited in features.

Pros:

● Cheap and fast

● No coding required

Cons:

● Limited customization

● May lack advanced features like native API support

2. Coding the App Yourself

If you’re a developer (or willing to learn how to code), creating an app from scratch gives you full control and unlimited customization.

Pros:

● Full creative freedom

Access to advanced features

Cons:

● Requires significant time and expertise

● You’ll need to maintain the backend yourself

3. Hiring a Freelancer

Freelancers offer an affordable custom development option, but risk and delays are common concerns.

Pros:

● More affordable than agencies

● Offers customization

Cons:

● Hard to vet quality developers

● High dependency on one individual

4. Partnering With a Development Agency

Agencies provide a polished product with design, development, and often post-launch support.

Pros:

● Access to a full team of experts

● High-quality apps with robust features

Cons:

● Can be expensive

● Strict contracts in some cases

5. Using No-Code Platforms

No-code app builders like GoodBarber and Wix allow you to design and publish apps without technical skills. They use templates and drag-and-drop interfaces that make it easy for beginners.

Pros:

● Cost-effective

● No coding required

● Supports both iOS and Android

Cons:

● May lack scalability and complex customizations

6. Choosing BuildFire

BuildFire stands out by offering a hybrid solution. It combines the simplicity of an app builder with the power of custom development services, making it perfect for small businesses and enterprises alike.

Pros:

● Scalable with custom features

● Integrated publishing to app stores

● Affordable DIY and full-service options

Cons:

● Not ideal for gaming or VR apps

● For an in-depth look, visit BuildFire’s app builder platform.

7 Steps to Create an App from a Website

Now that you know the methods, here’s a step-by-step blueprint to create your mobile app in 2025:

Step 1: Assess the Need

Ask yourself why you need an app. Conduct market research to ensure demand exists for your app and analyze your competitors’ offerings to identify gaps you can fill.

Step 2: Plan Your Features

List the core functionalities your app will provide, focusing on features that differentiate it from your website. For example, loyalty programs, push notifications, or offline capabilities.

Step 3: Set Your Budget

Your budget determines whether you should hire developers, use an app builder, or opt for a hybrid approach. For startups, app builders are affordable entry points.

Step 4: Choose a Development Method

Select the most suitable method based on your goals, budget, and technical expertise. Focus on long-term scalability to avoid starting over in the future.

Step 5: Design Your App

Begin with wireframing to outline essential components and user flow. Whether starting from templates or customizing completely, prioritize a sleek, user-friendly interface.

Step 6: Test Thoroughly

Launch beta testing on both iOS and Android before publishing. Evaluate speed, navigation, offline functionality, and cross-device performance.

Step 7: Publish to App Stores

Prepare your metadata (app name, description, screenshots) for submission to the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Familiarize yourself with their guidelines and optimization tips.

For streamlined publishing, try BuildFire’s one-click submission process, where they handle the technical aspects for you.

Learn more: How to Create an App and Make Money

Creating an app from a website is no longer just an option; it’s becoming a necessity for businesses that want to thrive in a mobile-first world. Apps offer better user experiences, drive more engagement, and ultimately lead to higher revenues.

Whether you use a no-code platform like GoodBarber, a hybrid like BuildFire, or collaborate with freelancers or agencies like NewWebOrder, the key is choosing a method that aligns with your goals and resources. Get started today and take your website to the next level!

FAQ - How to Create an App from a Website

1. Why should I turn my website into an app?

Apps offer a variety of benefits, including:

● Faster access for users compared to websites.

● Improved user experience with better navigation and interface.

● Increased engagement through push notifications.

● Higher conversion rates, up to 157% more than mobile websites.

● Enhanced customer loyalty as apps stay visible on users' home screens.

2. How much does it cost to create an app from a website?

The cost varies depending on the method:

● App builders (e.g., BuildFire): Starting around $159/month, they’re cost-effective for small businesses.

● Freelancers: Usually affordable but can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars based on complexity.

● Development agencies: High-quality apps can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000+.

● DIY coding: Relatively cheap but requires significant time and skill.

3. Do I need coding skills to create an app?

Not necessarily. No-code platforms like GoodBarber or BuildFire allow you to create apps without any technical knowledge by using intuitive drag-and-drop tools. However, for complete customization, some coding or hiring developers might be necessary.

4. Which platform should I choose for my app, iOS or Android?

It depends on your target audience:

● iOS apps tend to perform better in markets like North America and Western Europe.

● Android apps dominate globally due to higher market share.

● If possible, create apps for both platforms to reach the widest audience. Many app builders help you build for both simultaneously.

5. What’s the difference between a Native App and a PWA?

● Native Apps are designed for specific platforms (iOS or Android) and offer advanced functionality using device features like cameras and GPS. They require downloading from app stores.

● PWAs (Progressive Web Apps) function like websites but mimic native apps. They don’t require app store downloads and work on browsers, with offline capabilities.

6. How long does it take to turn a website into an app?

● Basic apps using builders can take as little as a few days to a few weeks.

● Custom apps developed by agencies or freelancers may take months depending on complexity. Testing and app store approvals also add time to the process.

7. Can I add special features to my app?

Yes, features like loyalty programs, push notifications, offline functionality, or integration with APIs can be added. However, the ability to include features depends on the app building tool or development method you choose.

8. How do I publish my app on app stores like Google Play and the Apple App Store?

● Register as a developer:

● Apple Developer Program costs $99/year.

● Google Play Developer account costs a one-time $25 fee.

● Follow each platform’s guidelines for submitting your app, including metadata, screenshots, and app descriptions. Platforms like BuildFire simplify the publishing process with one-click submissions.