A stand-alone app is a stand-alone software application that works independently of a web browser or other applications on a device. Unlike web apps that run in the browser, stand-alone apps do not require a permanent internet connection and can be used offline. This type of application is available on various platforms, including mobile operating systems such as iOS and Android, as well as desktop operating systems such as Windows and macOS.

The main advantage of stand-alone apps is that they can provide an optimised user experience as they are developed specifically for the platform in question. This allows developers to have full control over the design and functionality of the app and ensure that it works smoothly and efficiently on the specific device. Stand-alone apps are usually faster and more responsive than web apps as they can access the device's resources directly.

Another important feature of stand-alone apps is the ability to access device functions, such as the camera, GPS location or contact list. This allows developers to implement functions that are specifically tailored to the hardware and capabilities of the device. For example, stand-alone apps can access GPS data to track locations or access the camera to take photos.

Stand-alone apps are also able to store user data locally on the device, which can increase user privacy and security. As the data is not stored in the cloud, it is less susceptible to hacker attacks and data breaches.

Overall, stand-alone apps offer a variety of benefits, including an optimised user experience, access to device functions and increased privacy and security. They have become an integral part of the modern technology environment and are used in a variety of industries and use cases, from enterprise applications to entertainment and productivity apps.