Table of contents

Why convert your WordPress site to a mobile app? Choose the right method Best WordPress plugins App builder platforms Key features App publishing and store submission Costs involved Unique challenges Bonus FAQs Getting started

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WordPress Guide → Development → Mobile App

How to convert a WordPress site to a mobile app

Turning your WordPress website into a mobile app isn’t just a trend; it’s a way to meet users where they spend most of their digital time. With mobile app usage continuing to outpace web traffic, having an app can give your brand a serious edge.

Let’s walk through how to make it happen, the best tools available, and key features to consider before hitting “publish.”

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Why convert your WordPress site to a mobile app?

Mobile apps offer a smoother, faster, and more personalized experience than mobile websites. Converting your WordPress site to an app can:

Increase user retention through push notifications
Improve performance and loading times
Provide offline access to content
Strengthen your brand presence with app store listings
Open up monetization options like in-app purchases or ads

It’s especially helpful for blogs, online stores, communities, or any site with returning visitors.

Choose the right method: plugin vs platform

There are two main ways to turn a WordPress site into a mobile app:

WordPress plugins: These install directly into your site and handle app creation from your dashboard. Ideal for syncing existing content and layouts.
App builder platforms: These are separate tools that connect to your site (via URL, API, or RSS) and generate an app independently. Great for advanced customizations or when you want full control over the design.

Each method has pros and cons depending on your site type, technical experience, and budget.

Best WordPress plugins to convert your site to an app

If you want to stay within your WordPress dashboard and skip heavy lifting, plugins are the easiest route. Here are three active, well-supported options.

1. AppMySite

AppMySite is an intuitive, beginner-friendly plugin that creates native Android and iOS apps synced to your WordPress site. You can customize app layout, colors, and branding—all without touching code.

Real-time sync with your WordPress site
Supports WooCommerce, custom post types, and pages
Push notifications via OneSignal
Preview your app on mobile before publishing

Best for: Bloggers, ecommerce stores, and small businesses

Starting at: Free (paid plans unlock publishing and advanced features)

2. AppPresser

AppPresser offers a hybrid solution with a WordPress plugin and external app builder dashboard. It’s tailored for more complex sites and shines with LMS or community features.

Visual app builder with real-time editing
Integrates with WooCommerce, LearnDash, BuddyPress
Push notifications and device previews
Extensive documentation and support

Best for: Online courses, memberships, and social sites

Starting at: $249/year

3. WebViewGold

WebViewGold isn’t a WordPress plugin but a downloadable app template (sold on CodeCanyon) that turns any website—including WordPress—into a native app using WebView technology. It’s more of a “plugin alternative” for advanced users.

Full app source code included
Offline fallback, file uploads, and camera access
iOS and Android versions available
Frequent updates and in-depth documentation

Best for: Developers or power users who want full control

Starting at: $79 (one-time)

App builder platforms (no plugin required)

If you want more freedom in how your app looks and functions, standalone app builders may be the better fit. These tools typically require connecting your WordPress site via an API or link.

Appilix

A lightweight app conversion tool that doesn’t require a plugin. Just submit your site URL and Appilix generates Android and iOS apps. Includes real-time sync, push notification support, and WooCommerce compatibility.

Best for: Site owners who want a fast, hands-off app conversion.

Median.co

Median.co is a no-code mobile app builder with powerful customization tools. It supports dynamic content, native navigation, and monetization features. You can use it with WordPress or other CMS platforms.

Best for: SaaS products, startups, or those wanting pixel-perfect control.

Bubble

While not WordPress-specific, Bubble is a no-code app development platform that lets you build fully customized mobile apps. It integrates with WordPress via the REST API or iframe embeds.

Best for: Complex app projects needing unique UI/UX or workflows.

Key features to look for in any tool

No matter which tool you choose, you’ll want to prioritize these features:

Native vs. hybrid: Native apps perform better and look more polished. Hybrid apps are faster to deploy and cheaper to maintain.
Real-time sync: Make sure your app stays in sync with your site without manual updates.
Push notifications: Vital for engaging users and promoting new content or offers.
WooCommerce integration: Required if you sell products online.
Offline access: Useful for reading content or browsing products when the user is offline.
Analytics and performance tracking: Helps you refine and improve the mobile experience.
Support and updates: Active maintenance and documentation can save you headaches down the road.

App publishing and store submission

Getting your app into the hands of users means navigating the app store process:

Apple App Store: You’ll need a $99/year developer account. Apple’s review process is strict, so your app must follow their design and functionality guidelines.
Google Play Store: Easier approval process and a one-time $25 developer fee. Android APKs can be submitted directly.

Some tools offer publishing support or even handle the full submission for you.

Costs involved and what to expect

Converting a WordPress site to an app can be affordable, but prices vary based on features and services.

Plugins: Free versions are often limited; full features typically cost $100–$500/year.
App builder platforms: Expect monthly plans from $20 to $200/month depending on what’s included.
WebView-based options: One-time costs starting around $50–$100.
Developer accounts: $99/year (Apple), $25 one-time (Google).

Also factor in maintenance, bug fixes, and version updates.

Unique challenges and limitations to keep in mind

Even the best tools have limitations. Here’s what to watch out for:

App store rejections: Apple in particular may reject apps that are just “website clones” without added functionality.
Compatibility issues: Some WordPress plugins (like sliders, page builders, or custom JS) may not render properly inside apps.
User experience: WebView apps often lack native feel unless styled carefully.
Ongoing support: You may need to troubleshoot issues when updating your WordPress site, especially with major theme/plugin changes.

Bonus: Create a PWA (Progressive Web App) as an alternative

If native apps feel like too much, a Progressive Web App (PWA) might be perfect. PWAs offer:

App-like experience in a mobile browser
Home screen installation (no app store approval needed)
Offline access and push notification support
Faster setup with fewer costs

The Super Progressive Web Apps plugin can turn your site into a PWA in minutes.

WordPress-to-app FAQs

Yes. With the right plugin or builder platform, you can convert your WordPress site into a mobile app for Android and iOS—no coding required.

You can use a plugin like AppMySite or a tool like Appilix to sync your site’s content into a mobile app. Some tools even offer store publishing services.

Absolutely. WordPress can be the backend for native or hybrid apps, especially when paired with tools that use the REST API or WebView technology.

Next steps for converting a WordPress site to a mobile app

Creating a mobile app from your WordPress site opens the door to stronger user engagement, higher retention, and better monetization. With plugins and builders offering easy-to-use tools, the process is more accessible than ever.

Start by choosing your approach—plugin, platform, or PWA—then explore the tool that fits your needs and budget best.

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