How I Added PWA Support to a Next.js App

While contributing to Accuguide — an open source platform that helps people discover accessible places and services — I implemented Progressive Web App (PWA) support so users can install it on their phone like a native app. In this article I'll walk through exactly what a PWA needs, how Next.js handles it, and every file I created or modified. What is a PWA? A Progressive Web App is a website that can be installed on a device and behaves like a native app. When installed: It gets its own icon on the home screen It opens without browser UI (no address bar) It can work offline It loads faster on repeat visits What a PWA Needs Three things are required: manifest.json — tells the browser the app's name, icons, and colors Service Worker — handles caching and offline support Meta tags — links the manifest and configures mobile display Step 1: Create public/manifest.json This file describes your app to the browser: { "name" : "Accuguide - Discover accessibility" , "short_name" : "Accuguide" ,