Best Hybrid App Examples To Inspire You In 2024

1. Uber

Undoubtedly, the top hybrid app example, Uber Technologies Inc. operates digitally and reaches customers via its hybrid application. The company’s massive network and technology offer services like food, grocery, mobility business, and other delivery services. Their application is focused on connecting individuals and businesses with service providers. Uber’s revenue comes from food delivery (formerly Uber Eats – 42%), mobility services (formerly Uber Rides – 39%), and Freight Services (approximately 19%).

Uber’s app is one of the best hybrid app examples because

• User Interface – Developed using HTML for app structure, CSS for layout styling, and JavaScript for interactivity, Uber replicates a consistent user experience across different platforms.
• Native Container – Since Uber’s code is mostly web-based, to ensure they run on mobile devices and are compatible with these platforms, the code is encapsulated within a native container. This helps render the web code and bridge differences between a native app and a hybrid app.
• Platform-Specific APIs – Web technologies do not allow certain functionalities like location which is where platform-specific integration comes in. These are accomplished with the help of the relevant APIs geared toward the platform.
• Distribution To Users – Since Uber is a hybrid app, Uber can be easily distributed to users via the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. You can easily download the app on your mobile device and enjoy an experience similar to native apps.

Want to develop an app like Uber? Get in touch with a professional development company and start today!

2. Airbnb

One of the top hybrid app examples, Airbnb offers users a digital marketplace for homestays, hotels, and other properties. Users can book short-term or long-term stays as they deem fit. Currently, the application also allows users to book vacation experiences at their preferred locations. But, what is there to learn from Airbnb, one of the top examples of hybrid apps? Let’s look at a few pointers below:

• User Interface – Airbnb also uses HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to offer better interactivity and allow users to use the application on devices with different resolutions and screen sizes.
• Native Container – The web-based code of Airbnb is wrapped in a native container called WebView that allows developers to render web content into a mobile application.
• Platform-Specific Integrations – Airbnb’s mobile application requires both camera and location access which cannot be developed with web technologies. This is why developers use platform-specific APIs accessed via JavaScript interfaces for better functionality.
• Offline Functions – For better user convenience, Airbnb uses technologies like local storage and cache to store data on local devices and allow users to perform certain functionalities even without internet connectivity.
• App Distribution – Similar to other hybrid apps and native apps, Airbnb is available on both Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Users can easily download the application and use it on their preferred device.

Want to create an app like Airbnb? Get in touch with a professional app development company to get the support you need.

3. Instagram

With over 2 billion users, Instagram is one of the best hybrid app examples available in the industry. Run by Meta, Instagram allows users to publish pictures and share them with their network. The platform has completely revolutionized the social media scene and changed the way we lead our lives. But, why is Instagram included in one of the top hybrid mobile app examples? Some common features are:

• User Interface – although Instagram is built using native technologies specific to Android and iOS, some app features and interfaces utilize web technologies.
• Web View – The web view native renders the web-based code within the native app and allows a seamless user experience.
• Other Hybrid Features – Instagram uses a few hybrid features to implement certain interfaces and functionalities. The app’s content recommendation and user algorithms are run on the server side while users view them via the app’s web-based elements.
• Progressive Web App – Although Instagram is mostly accessed by users via their mobile devices, the app has a PWA version. This version is a scaled-down one and offers only the core functionalities.

The cost to develop a social networking app like Instagram? ranges between $30,000 to $2,50,000. We recommend getting in touch with a professional development company for a better price estimate based on your business needs and the features to be included.

4. Spotify

As of 2023, Spotify has a user base of over 517.69 million among which 229 million are premium subscribers. Hence, it can be easily considered one of the top music streaming service providers and one of the finest hybrid app examples. The app models hybrid app development in the following ways:

• User Interface – Spotify’s user interface is built with the help of native technologies allowing seamless user experiences on both Android and iOS. This is exactly why Spotify offers optimized performance and easily integrates with other device features.
• WebView Integration – The app uses WebView components with native app features for the seamless view and integration of web-based functionalities. This is why users can consistently browse and interact with the different features
• Features Powered By Web Technologies – Although most of Spotify’s app features are built with native technologies, Spotify’s web player offers a lot of functionalities implemented with web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
• Progressive Web Apps – Spotify often experiments with its web-based player, but they do not have a dedicated PWA.
• App Distribution – Just like the other hybrid application examples, Spotify is available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store for users to download and install.

5. Netflix

A revolutionary over-the-top subscription streaming service, Netflix is one of the top application examples available in today’s market. Although Netflix does not provide a hybrid app design and development, its benefits make it worth a mention. However, another point you need to consider is that Netflix offers a Progressive Web App (PWA), making it similar to the development approach of the other hybrid app examples.

6. Evernote

One of the most popular productivity apps, Evernote is also one of the top hybrid app examples available. The best part about the application is its rich design and strong performance which helps offer a seamless user experience. Some features of Evernote are:

• Syncs user notes across a wide range of devices.
• Allows users to share notes and help others they know.
• Offers a scanning feature with camera permissions.

7. Twitter

Another famous social media platform, Twitter is one of the top hybrid app examples available. Some common features of the application are:

• Allows users to add and share content with their audience.
• Users can use third-party applications for added usability.
• Integrates photo-sharing features with polls, comments, and much more.

8. Gmail

Although a free service offered by Google, Gmail is one of the top hybrid app examples in the industry. Some of its features are:

• Allows better organization of emails under appropriate categories.
• Accessible to users across different devices.
• Offers security from spam messages and offensive senders.

9. WhatsApp

One of the best cross-platform messaging applications, WhatsApp is one of the best hybrid app examples. Other than their prime VoIP services, WhatsApp allows smooth communication between users.