People are glued to their phones. Whether it’s checking the weather, ordering tacos, stalking their favorite online store, or doom-scrolling at 2 a.m., phones are where the magic happens.

And if a business already has a website? Great start. But turning that website into a mobile app? That’s how things go next-level. A decent website can already do a lot, especially if it’s mobile-responsive.

Turning a Website into a Mobile App: Step-by-Step

Now onto the fun part. Here’s how to turn a regular website into a full-blown mobile app—without needing a computer science degree.

Step 1: Figure Out What Really Matters on Your Website

Start by asking: What are people actually using on the site? Is it the product catalog? Booking form? The blog? That’s what needs to shine inside the mobile app. No fluff. Just the stuff people care about.

Step 2: Decide What Kind of App Makes Sense

There’s more than one way to build an app. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• PWA (Progressive Web App)
• Hybrid App
• Native App

If the budget’s tight but functionality matters, a hybrid app is often the sweet spot.

Step 3: Pick How You’ll Build It

You’ve got two options here:

• Use a trusted app builder platform (these are quicker but more cookie-cutter)
• Hire a professional team (custom, polished, and flexible)

Step 4: Make It Easy to Use

A mobile app shouldn’t feel like a shrunk-down website. It should be smooth, clean, and stupid simple to navigate. Key things to include:

• Large buttons (for big thumbs)
• Minimal scrolling
• Easy logins
• Fast loading
• Clear menus

Step 5: Test, Fix, Repeat

Before hitting publish, the mobile app needs to be tested like crazy. Not just on one phone. Test it on Androids, iPhones, tablets, old phones, new ones—you get the idea.

Look for:

• Buttons that don’t work
• Pages that load weird
• Forms that freeze
• Bugs during checkout or login

Better to catch issues before they are reviewed.

Step 6: Launch

Once it’s ready, submit it to the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Once approved, let the world know. Ways to promote it:

• Pop-ups on the website
• Social media posts
• QR codes in-store
• Email blasts
• Discounts for app users

FAQs

1. Does this mean rebuilding the whole site?

Not at all. Most of what’s already on the site can be reused. The mobile app just re-packages it in a way that’s easier on phones.

2. How much does it cost to turn a site into an app?

It depends on what kind of mobile app is being built. PWAs are more affordable. Native apps are more powerful and pricey. A hybrid app is often a solid middle ground.

3. Will people still be able to visit the site?

Absolutely. The mobile app is just an extra, more convenient option. The website still works as usual.

Conclusion

Turning a website into a mobile app isn’t just for big brands or tech startups anymore. These days, even local shops, creators, and service pros can have a fully functional app in the app store—and it can completely level up the customer experience.

The key is to keep things simple, focus on what matters to users, and work with a team that knows how to get it done right.

Need help building something that actually works, looks good, and gets results? The crew over at American Web Builders has helped tons of businesses turn their websites into real-deal mobile apps. Worth checking out if you’re ready to level up.