It installs on the iPhone from a web site, then runs on the iPhone offline, complete with local data storage.
Have I missed something: does this capability currently exist on the iPhone? Or this just wishful thinking?
Have I missed something: does this capability currently exist on the iPhone? Or this just wishful thinking?
Web sites can also declare themselves to be "web apps", in which case the user can link them to the phone's home screen, and they can look just like native apps, with splash screens on startup; even hiding the usual safari navigation if you want.
... There’s no easier way to get an app than by installing it right from its website - that’s right, easier than the App Store. One tap and you’re set. Because it’s a web app, see. Not one of those where you need to be online either - once you add Pie Guy to your home screen, it’ll run even when you’re not connected to the Internet. And of course, your game will be saved to a local database. Read on...
Here's an example tutorial targeting web developers:
I feel a bit stupid now. But I'm also wondering how I've managed to remain completely ignorant of this alternative for deploying apps to the iPhone, when I try to follow this stuff pretty closely...
I think the extended soap opera about App Store riches, unfair refusals, Section 3.3.1, etc. has managed to eclipse this deployment possibility. It's a shame, really. Everyone (incl. Apple) might be better off if the issue were less polarised.