There’s a quiet shift happening in how web apps are being built.
More developers are creating tools that don’t require accounts: no signup, no onboarding, just open and use.
The Problem With Logins
“Create an account to continue” is still one of the biggest drop-off points.
Even with Google auth or magic links, users hesitate:
- They’re not ready to commit
- They just want to try something quickly
- They don’t trust the app yet So they leave.
The Rise of Instant-Use Tools
We’ve all used these:
- JSON formatters
- Image compressors
- Text tools
They solve a problem instantly: no friction.
Now developers are applying that same idea to more complex tools: small, focused apps designed for quick sessions instead of long-term retention.
Distribution Is the Hard Part
When you remove accounts, you also remove built-in growth loops.
No emails. No dashboards. No retention funnels.
That makes discovery the real challenge.
A Different Way to Surface Apps
Traditional platforms don’t fit well with these lightweight tools.
You don’t always need a full SaaS listing or a big launch, just a place where people can find and use your app.
That’s why I find platforms unstore interesting. They lean into this idea of quick, direct access to web apps without the usual overhead.
Closing Thought
Not every app needs users, accounts, and retention metrics.
Some just need to be useful instantly.
And maybe that’s where the web is heading again.
