The Decision to Go Native

When we started Fitnit, our web app served millions of workouts. So why spend months building a native iOS app? The answer comes down to three things: performance, integration, and experience.

The Performance Gap

Pose Detection Speed

Our AI pose detection needs to process video frames in real-time. Here's what we found:

Web App (Progressive Web App):

  • 15-20 frames per second processing
  • Occasional frame drops during complex movements
  • Higher battery drain

Native iOS App:

  • 30+ frames per second processing
  • Consistent performance throughout workouts
  • 40% better battery efficiency

App Launch Time

  • Web App: 2-3 seconds to interactive
  • Native iOS: Under 0.5 seconds
When you're about to start a workout, every second counts.

Apple Ecosystem Integration

Apple Health

The native app can write directly to Apple Health:
  • Workout duration and calories
  • Heart rate data (if available)
  • Nutrition information
  • Activity rings contribution
This isn't possible with a web app due to browser security restrictions.

Notifications

Native push notifications that:
  • Remind you to work out
  • Celebrate achievements
  • Update you on referral earnings

Offline Capability

True offline mode with:
  • Full workout tracking without internet
  • Local storage of your workout history
  • Background sync when connected

The User Experience

Gestures and Animations

Native iOS lets us build:
  • Smooth 60fps animations
  • Natural swipe gestures
  • Haptic feedback on achievements
  • Camera integration without permission prompts every time

Reliability

No browser updates breaking functionality. No "Add to Home Screen" confusion. Just a real app from the App Store that works consistently.

What This Means for You

When Fitnit iOS launches, you'll get:

  • Faster workouts: Less time waiting, more time exercising
  • Better tracking: More accurate rep counting with faster processing
  • Seamless integration: Your fitness data flows to Apple Health automatically
  • True offline mode: Track anywhere, sync later
  • Premium experience: The polish of a native app

The Web App Isn't Going Anywhere

Our web app will continue serving:

  • Android users (native Android app coming later)
  • Desktop users
  • Anyone who prefers browser-based access
But for iPhone users who want the best Fitnit experience, native iOS is the answer.

Join the iOS Waitlist