An HTML app is an application whose interface and logic are written in HTML, CSS and JavaScript. On Android it runs inside a WebView — Chrome's engine embedded in an app — packaged as an APK. Because the files ship inside the app, an HTML app can work completely offline.
- Built with
- HTML, CSS, JavaScript
- Runs in
- Android WebView
- Offline
- Yes, files are bundled
- Packaged as
- APK / AAB
How an HTML app runs on Android
The APK contains a small native shell and your web files in its assets folder. When the app opens, the shell starts a WebView and loads your index.html from inside the APK — no server, no internet. JavaScript runs at full speed, and data saved with localStorage or IndexedDB stays on the phone.
What HTML apps can do
| Capability | Web API |
|---|---|
| Save data offline | localStorage, IndexedDB |
| Graphics & games | Canvas, WebGL |
| Camera & microphone | getUserMedia (app permission needed) |
| Location | Geolocation |
| Sound | Web Audio, <audio> |
| Vibration | navigator.vibrate |
| Keep screen on | Wake Lock |
HTML app vs URL app
An HTML app carries its content inside; a URL app loads a website. HTML apps are faster and offline, URL apps update without rebuilding. Detailed comparison.
Make one
- Write or generate index.htmlBy hand or with an AI — keep CSS/JS inline for a first app.
- Test in a phone browserOpen the file in Chrome.
- Package itHTML to APK → pick the file or ZIP → build.
Questions people ask
Are HTML apps slow?
Not for typical apps — Android's WebView is the same engine as Chrome. Heavy 3D games are where native wins.
What is the best app for writing HTML on Android?
Any code editor app works; you can also let an AI write it and only paste the result.