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What can an HTML app not do on Android?

An HTML app running in Android WebView cannot run code while closed (background sync, alarms), use Web Push or the Notification API, download files or show PDFs itself, use Web Share, Bluetooth, USB or NFC APIs, or play audio in the background.

Updated 12 October 2026By HTML2APK Editorial Team
Answer

An HTML app running in Android WebView cannot run code while closed (background sync, alarms), use Web Push or the Notification API, download files or show PDFs itself, use Web Share, Bluetooth, USB or NFC APIs, or play audio in the background. Most have a workaround: native push from the app shell, opening links in other apps, or a server.

Not availableWorkaround
Web Push / Notification APINative push via the app shell (HTML2APK Pro uses OneSignal)
Background tasks and timersCompute from timestamps when the app reopens; use a server
File downloads, PDF viewerOpen the file's https link in the browser; show content as HTML
Web Share APICopy-to-clipboard, or links to share URLs
Bluetooth, USB, NFC, SerialA native app or plugin framework (Capacitor)
Background audioA native media app
VibrationTreat as optional; may be ignored

Full support details: WebView HTML5 support table.

Frequently asked questions

Can an HTML app send notifications?

Not through the web Notification or Push APIs. The app shell can receive native push notifications if the builder supports it.

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HTML2APK Editorial Team
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