ⓘ This article is for Event Organizers
Expo Pass offers two powerful options for delivering a mobile-first experience to your event attendees: a Native Mobile App and a Web-Based App (Web App). Each is built to support different types of attendee needs — but using both can lead to confusion, especially when attendees are using Magic Links to access the platform.
Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which option is best for your event — and why we recommend choosing one or the other, not both.
🚀 The Basics: Native App vs. Web App
Feature | Native Mobile App (iOS & Android) | Web App (Browser-Based) |
How It’s Accessed | Download from App Store / Google Play | Open instantly in any browser |
Offline Capabilities | Internet required when downloading App, but not after that | No – Internet required |
Ease of Use | Familiar experience, but requires installation | Instant access, no download |
Device Restrictions | May be blocked on corporate or gov devices | Works on any internet-enabled device |
Magic Link Experience | Requires download + login steps | Seamless 1-click login from email |
Sponsorship Visibility | Standard | High – includes banners, homepage takeovers |
Event Homepage | Static info | Fully customizable with media, messaging, schedule highlights |
Pre-, During, and Post- look | Not available | Easily able to change the look and feel depending on the event dates |
🧠 Why Not Both?
While both platforms are excellent, offering both at once can cause friction for attendees:
Magic Link Confusion: Attendees may receive a Web App Magic Link, open it on a mobile browser, and assume they need the native app — or vice versa. This leads to login issues, support tickets, and unnecessary frustration.
Split Experience: Users end up scattered across two platforms with different interfaces and limitations. Consistency suffers.
That’s why we strongly recommend picking one mobile app experience for your event — and sticking with it.
📱 When to Use the Native App
The Native App is a great choice if your event needs:
Offline access, like scanning exhibitor leads without Wi-Fi
Traditional mobile app features, like native push notifications
A familiar experience for users who prefer App Store downloads
Great for events where tech-savvy users will download the app in advance.
🌐 When to Use the Web App
The Web App is ideal if your priority is:
Fast, frictionless access – no downloads needed
Broad device compatibility – including locked-down work phones
Dynamic branding and enhanced sponsor placements
A modern, sleek user experience available instantly to all
Best for fast-moving, high-volume events where you want to make the experience as easy and accessible as possible for every attendee.
💡 TL;DR – Our Recommendation
Choose either the Native App or the Web App for your event — not both.
If offline access is key → go Native.
If ease of access, branding, and modern user experience matter most → go Web.
Need help deciding? Reach out to Expo Pass Event Success for more information.
Need help or have questions?
Just click the red Chat Bubble in the bottom right corner of Expo Pass — we’re here to support you!