WHEN YOU THINK of smartphones, the first thing that usually comes to mind are apps. It’s understandable since they’re front and centre of the experience, but sometimes you may find it easier to just check the browser version instead.

If you find yourself visiting a site often, or you’re not a fan of the app experience, the next best thing is to create a web shortcut instead.

Think of it as a bookmark for a favourite site that you can access directly on your phone, but appears alongside your regular apps, which is handy for those with limited space on their phones.

The obvious caveat is that for any of these shortcuts, there needs to be a browser equivalent and you need a web connection to use them. Otherwise, you’re good to go.

iPhone (Safari)

When you’re on the web page you want saved, tap the share icon at the bottom of the page and choose ‘Add to home screen.’

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Android (Chrome)

At the top-right hand corner, hit settings (the three dots) and scroll down until you see ‘Add to Home Screen.’

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Windows Phone (Internet Explorer)

Tapping settings in your browser (noticing a pattern here?) will bring up the option ‘add to tile screen’ near the bottom.

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When to opt for the app version

That said, not all experiences should be replaced by this method as there are a number of instances where using the app is better.

For example, if you visit a particular site often, then having the app will mean less data in the long-run is used since it doesn’t have to load up the template again and again.

Also, apps allow for greater functionality so by opting for the web version, you will be sacrificing elements like pull to refresh, swipe gestures and other features as a result.

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