Free apps for all Android, iOS, Linux and Windows devices

What types of applications do we offer?

Our apps are divided into three main groups. On this page, we explain more about these three groups. Click on one of the following links to learn more about each type of app:

• PWA: Progressive Web App

• APK: For installation on Android devices

• WEB: For use directly on this website

At Ufumbuzi, we create PWA-style web applications that are easily installed on any device with a browser and internet access, improving user experience and accessibility.

PWA: Progressive Web App

What is a PWA?

A Progressive Web App (PWA) is a type of web application that aims to provide users with an experience similar to a native mobile app while being accessible through a web browser. Think of it as a website that can do many of the things a regular app on your phone can do.

Here's a breakdown of what that means:

Key Characteristics of PWAs:

Progressive: They work for every user, regardless of their browser choice because they're built with progressive enhancement as a core tenet.

Installable: They can be added to the user's home screen without going through an app store, offering a native app-like experience with an icon and the ability to launch in full-screen mode.

Connectivity independent: They can work offline or on low-quality networks thanks to service workers, which cache important resources.

App-like: They offer smooth interactions, animations, and navigation that feel like a native app.

Always up-to-date: Updates happen in the background, so users always have the latest version without needing to manually update.

Secure: Served via HTTPS to ensure security and data integrity.

Discoverable: Because they are essentially websites, they can be easily found through search engines.

Responsive: They adapt to any device form factor (desktop, tablet, mobile).

In simpler terms:

Imagine a website that you can "install" on your phone like a regular app. It will have an icon on your home screen, open in its own window (without the browser address bar), and can even work if you lose your internet connection. Plus, it updates automatically!

Faster loading times: PWAs are generally faster than traditional websites, improving user experience.

Reduced storage space: They typically take up less space on a device compared to native apps.

Wider reach: Accessible to anyone with a web browser, without the need for app store downloads.

So, a PWA bridges the gap between traditional websites and native mobile applications, offering a compelling user experience with the benefits of both.

APK: To install on Android devices

What is an APK?

An APK (Android Package Kit) is like the installation file for apps on Android devices. Think of it as the equivalent of the ".exe" file you use to install programs on a Windows computer, or the ".dmg" file on a Mac.

Key points to understand what an APK is:

It's a package: An APK is not just the app itself, but a compressed file that contains all the elements necessary for an app to successfully install on your Android device. This includes:

• The app's code.

• Resources such as images, sounds, and videos.

• Security certificates.

• Manifest files that describe the app to the Android system.

• Libraries and other files necessary for its operation.

In short, think of an APK file as the box that contains everything you need to install an app on your Android phone or tablet.

WEB applications

What is a WEB application?

"A web application, also known as a web app, is a software program that you access and use through a web browser (such as Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge), instead of installing it directly on your computer or mobile device like a traditional application (desktop or mobile).

Key points to understand what a web application is:

Runs on a server: The majority of the processing and logic of the web application occurs on a remote server (a powerful computer connected to the internet). Your web browser primarily acts as an interface to interact with that application.

Access via a URL: You access a web application by typing its web address (URL) into your browser, just as you would with any webpage.

Does not require local installation: Unlike native desktop or mobile applications, you don't need to download and install a web application on your device. You simply open your browser and access it.

Operating system independent: Because they run in a browser, web applications are usually compatible with different operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS) as long as they have a modern web browser.

Requires internet connection: To function, most web applications need an active internet connection to communicate with the server where they run.

In summary, a web application is software that you experience and use directly within your internet browser. You don't need to install anything on your device, and it generally works on any operating system with a browser and internet connection."