Ask HN: Is there still a place for native desktop apps?

Article summary

The article asks whether native desktop applications are still necessary, given the advancements in modern browsers. It questions whether everything should be developed as 'web first' or if there is still a place for native desktop apps. The author seeks input from the community on this topic. The discussion revolves around the capabilities and limitations of web apps compared to native desktop applications.

Main themes

• native desktop apps
• web apps
• performance and latency
• industry-specific requirements
• user experience
• development and maintenance
• piracy and control

What commenters say

• Native desktop applications are still necessary for tasks that require high performance, low latency, and specific hardware capabilities, such as professional audio and video editing.
• Some industries, like CAD and BIM, will always require native desktop applications due to their complex and resource-intensive nature.
• Web apps can be suitable for many use cases, but they often lack the responsiveness and hotkey functionality of native apps.
• The decision to develop a native desktop app or a web app depends on the specific needs of the user and the business goals of the developer.
• Native desktop apps can provide a better user experience, but web apps can offer more convenience and easier maintenance.
• The ability to control and update software is a key advantage of web apps, but it also means that users are dependent on the developer's decisions.
• Piracy is a concern for desktop applications, but it is not a significant issue for web apps, which can use server-side controls to manage access.
• The line between native desktop apps and web apps is blurring, with technologies like WebGL and WASM enabling more complex and performant web applications.