Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) started gaining popularity around 2007 with the launch of the iPhone and advances in HTML5. While early mobile operating systems supported embedded web apps, technical limitations prevented high quality experiences. PWAs address these issues using technologies like service workers, manifest files, and app shells to deliver app-like experiences through the web. They provide benefits like being always up-to-date through background syncing, working offline, and feeling like native apps through features like home screen installation. Many companies see increases in engagement, conversion rates, and reduced load times and bouncing by implementing PWAs.