How to convert your Vercel web app into a native app
Already built a web application on Vercel? Take it further by turning your web app into a native iOS and Android app with Median.co — no heavy mobile coding needed. Unlock native capabilities like push notifications, offline support, and direct app store publishing to deliver a complete mobile experience. Read more below.
Vercel makes it easy to deploy fast, scalable web apps with Next.js and modern frameworks. But today’s users expect more than just a browser experience — they live on mobile.
If your Vercel app isn’t available as a native iOS or Android app, you’re leaving behind opportunities for deeper engagement, retention, and revenue.
With Median.co, you can convert your Vercel web app into a fully featured native app — complete with push notifications, offline access, and app store publishing — all without the heavy lift of mobile development.
Enter your Vercel URL and build a native app now
What is Vercel?
Source: Vercel
Vercel, a cloud platform, enables developers to build, deploy, and scale modern web applications. It allows for a seamless workflow for frontend developers with tools and infrastructure optimized for speed, scalability, and collaboration.
Vercel is a cloud platform built for developers to easily build, deploy, and scale modern web applications.
It streamlines the entire development process by offering an optimized workflow that integrates seamlessly with frameworks like Next.js, React, and other popular frontend technologies.
By providing infrastructure that automatically handles scaling, performance tuning, and edge delivery, Vercel allows developers to focus on building rather than managing servers.
What are the key features of Vercel?
Here are Vercel's key features that make it a powerful platform for building and deploying modern web applications ⬇️
Performance & scalability
Framework support. Vercel supports leading frameworks like Next.js, SvelteKit, Nuxt.js, and Astro, many deployable with zero configuration.
Global edge network. Apps are delivered via a global edge network, ensuring low latency and high availability worldwide.
Scalability. Applications scale automatically to handle traffic spikes, with serverless and edge functions adjusting on demand.
Vercel Functions. Serverless functions adapt seamlessly to traffic, powering APIs, background tasks, and dynamic content.
Collaboration & workflow
Automatic deployments. Every commit or pull request triggers a new deployment with a preview URL for testing.
Preview environments. Preview URLs are generated for each branch, enabling collaboration and feedback before launch.
Integration with databases and APIs. Developers can connect apps to databases, APIs, and CMSs with integrations available in the Vercel Marketplace.
Observability & security
Observability and analytics. Vercel includes logging, tracing, and privacy-friendly analytics to track performance and Core Web Vitals.
Security. Built-in DDoS protection, firewalls, and WAF are paired with compliance to SOC 2, ISO 27001, and GDPR standards.
We are proud to announce our SOC 2 attestation, reinforcing our commitment to security and compliance!
Flexibility & cost efficiency
Multi-runtime support. Developers can use Node.js, Python, and other runtimes across routes or entire applications.
Cost efficiency. The serverless architecture ensures you only pay for the resources you use, minimizing costs during low-traffic periods.
Instant app store facelift. No designer required.
Unlock Median’s 500+ free Figma app store screenshot templates designed to meet iOS and Android guidelines. Your app will look its best across platforms, resulting in more downloads and a more powerful app store presence.
Why convert your Vercel web app into a native app?
Converting your Vercel web app into a native mobile app is the best way to give users a more seamless experience.
With a native app, you can achieve higher engagement rates and better performance than web apps. Some of the benefits of converting to a native app include:
Native app features: With native apps, you can access device-specific features, such as push notifications, GPS, haptic feedback, and camera integration — features that aren’t possible with websites and web apps. These tools can significantly improve how users interact with your app, driving more engagement.
App store presence: Native apps offer the opportunity to publish your app on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, where users can easily discover, download, and engage with your product. A spot in the app store is a major advantage for brand visibility and customer acquisition.
Offline access: One of the most significant benefits of native mobile apps is offline functionality. Unlike web apps, which require a constant internet connection, native apps store data locally and allow users to interact with the app even when offline.
Improved user engagement and retention: Studies show that mobile apps have much higher engagement and retention rates compared to web apps. Apps can offer more personalized experiences with features like user notifications and reminders, all of which are highly effective for driving repeat usage.
How Median.co can help convert your Vercel web app into a native app
Median.co offers a simple and cost-effective solution to make your Vercel web app a native iOS and Android app.
Using Median’s App Studio, you can convert any website into a mobile app with native features such as push notifications, haptic feedback, and device-specific functionality like GPS and camera access.
Here are some key benefits of using Median.co:
Extensive native plugin library: Median.co's App Studio includes a wide range of native plugins that allow you to easily add advanced native features to your app, such as push notifications, haptics, Face ID/Biometric login, and more — including SDK integrations for leading mobile vendors.
Real-time app building: The platform lets you see real-time updates of your app as you customize it, ensuring you get the exact look and feel you want.
Easy publishing: With Median.co’s publishing service, our team will submit your app to the Apple App Store and Google Play Store while you focus on bigger business projects.
With Median.co, the conversion process is streamlined, and you don’t need to be a developer to create a fully functional mobile app.
Want to know how it all works?
Get hands-on with Median’s comprehensive documentation, and build your app with ease.
How to convert your Vercel web app into a native app using Median.co
Ready to convert your Vercel web app into a native app? Get started with a step-by-step guide to using Median.co's App Studio.
Step 1: Build your app in the Median.co App Studio
Start by visiting https://median.co/app. Enter your Vercel URL as the "Website URL" and update your "App Name" as needed.
An email address is required for ongoing access to your app in the App Studio — you’ll then receive an email with a link to verify your account. To continue, click “Start Building my App!”
Step 2: Preview & test your new app
Median.co offers browser-based simulators to easily preview your app on iOS and Android devices without leaving your web browser.
As a starter, test that the basic functionality within your new app is performing as expected.
Step 3: Customize your app
In the Branding tab, you can upload an app icon and splash screen image or animation, and set theme colors to fully customize your app and align with your brand.
Additionally, you can explore options for Interface Settings, Link Handling, Website Overrides, and Permissions to tailor your app user experience to meet your requirements.
Native Navigation is where you can create a natural native app experience for your users, as well as finding help to meet Google and Apple design requirements.
Finally, you can explore Median’s Native Plugins to add advanced native features and integrations like push notifications, haptic feedback, and analytics to enhance user experience and maximize outcomes for your app.
Want to learn more about our plugins?
Launch a full-feature native app without native development!
Step 4: Test your app
Now that your app is customized, it’s crucial to test it on different devices before submitting it to the App Stores. Median.co offers:
Browser-based simulators to help ensure everything is functioning properly.
A convenient Public Sharing Link to provide access to stakeholders during testing.
Functionality to easily test on physical devices (an Apple Developer account is required for iOS).
Step 5: Launch your app
Access the License tab to choose a license and annual plan that suits your needs. Median.co offers various tiers based on the functionality needed for your app.
Additionally, Median offers a service whereby our team will manage the publishing process to ensure your app is approved by the Apple App Store and Google Play.
Enter your Vercel URL to build a free native app
Why native apps offer better business results
Converting your Vercel web app into a native mobile app is not just about better features — it's also about driving tangible business results. Here's how.
Easier user acquisition: Having your app in the app stores gives your business more credibility. Customers are more likely to download an app that is easily accessible from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Plus, depending on your expected user base, you can serve app install ads to acquire new user app installations, leading to increased downloads and conversions.
Engagement and retention: Native mobile apps have a higher retention rate than web apps. They provide a more personal and interactive experience through personalized push notifications powered by analytics that can be used to increase user retention. They also offer offline access and native device features, such as your app icon being present on user’s home screens, providing easy access to your app and ensuring users stay engaged longer.
Better user experience: Native apps offer faster load times and smoother transitions compared to web apps, which can lead to greater customer satisfaction and higher reviews on app stores. They also offer an improved app navigation experience, boosting user satisfaction.
Revenue generation: With access to in-app purchases, advertisements, and subscriptions, native apps provide more opportunities for monetization compared to traditional web apps.
Case Studies
Discover how Median empowers companies to speed mobile app development, engage users, and reduce expenses.
Summary
In a nutshell: Vercel is a leading platform for building and deploying modern web applications, giving developers speed, scalability, and collaboration tools to deliver production-ready apps.
But with an app development platform like Median.co, you can extend that experience to mobile and unlock powerful native features that push your project even further.
Whether your goal is driving deeper engagement, building a stronger community, or simply improving mobile accessibility, converting your Vercel web app into a native iOS and Android app can open new opportunities.
Median.co takes your Vercel project to the App Store and Google Play without the hassle of hiring mobile teams or managing complex infrastructure.
Ready to get started? Take the first steps with Median.co and find out firsthand what benefits you can enjoy with a native app today.
Frequently asked questions
Can I turn my Vercel app into a native iOS and Android app?
Yes. With Median.co, you can convert your Vercel web app into a fully functional native iOS and Android app. This allows you to keep your existing Vercel workflow while adding native features like push notifications, offline support, and app store publishing.
Do I need mobile development skills to build a native app from Vercel?
No. Median.co is designed so you don’t need to hire iOS or Android developers. Your Vercel app serves as the foundation, and Median.co handles the native app layer, making the process nearly code-free.
Why should I convert my Vercel app into a native app instead of relying on mobile browsers?
Native apps offer stronger retention, higher engagement, and better monetization than mobile browsers. Features like push notifications, app store visibility, and offline access give your users a richer experience than a standard web app.
How does Median.co integrate with my Vercel workflow?
Median.co doesn’t replace your Vercel workflow — it complements it. You can continue deploying and scaling your app with Vercel’s tools while Median.co handles the native app conversion and publishing to the App Store and Google Play.
Do I need a UDID to test my Vercel app on iOS devices?
Yes. If you’re testing an iOS app built from your Vercel project, you’ll need to get UDID (Unique Device Identifier) for your device. This is required to register your iPhone or iPad for app testing before publishing to the App Store.
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