Hotwire Native is extremely future proof
- Name
- Dennis Paagman
- @djfpaagman
Yesterday, iOS 26 was released with a whole new look-and-feel called ‘liquid glass’.
You might think that getting that to work with your Hotwire Native app requires at least writing some code. But because of the tight integration with iOS (using first party, native UI components) it actually does not need any code changes at all.
Upgrading your app to the new look requires exactly 0 lines of code! Just a few clicks and some patience:
- Update Xcode.
- Rebuild your app against iOS 26.
- ✨ literally nothing else ✨.
- Push to the App Store.
And you’re ready to go. Your users will like that your app matches the new shiny looks of their OS, including all new animations and effects.
Joe Masilotti also touched on this in his Rails World 2025 keynote (check out it if you haven’t, it’s awesome).
My main take away is something else though: things like this makes Hotwire Native extremely future proof. Any changes to the underlying platforms will almost automatically just work in your app. You just need to rebuild and push a new version every now and then.
This makes building on top of Hotwire and Hotwire Native the best way to accompany your Rails app with native apps. You can have the best of both worlds and focus on building your web app the way you’re used to, adding some sprinkles for native behavior when needed.
Changes in your web app will automatically be available to your app users when you deploy and platform changes will automatically trickle down to your apps as well. It only require a new build every now and then.
This made my believe in the future of Hotwire Native and Rails even more solid. Exciting times are ahead!
Thinking of building a mobile app with Hotwire Native? I can help you create smooth native experiences with your minimal effort in your existing Rails app.
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