Upgrade to modern mobile development
Cordova pioneered hybrid mobile apps, but it's outdated. NextNative uses Capacitor—Cordova's modern successor—with Next.js for better performance, modern APIs, and active development.
Quick Answer
If you're using Cordova, it's time to upgrade. Use Capacitor (Cordova's modern successor) with Next.js. You get better performance, modern APIs, and active support—Cordova is being phased out.
NextNative vs Cordova
Cordova is legacy technology with declining support. Capacitor is Cordova's modern replacement, built by the same team, with better performance, modern JavaScript APIs, and active development. Combine it with Next.js for the best mobile development experience.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | NextNative | Cordova |
|---|---|---|
| Active Development | Yes (modern, active) | No (legacy, declining) |
| Performance | Better (modern WebView) | Older WebView tech |
| Native APIs | Modern JavaScript API | Callback-based (old) |
| Plugin Ecosystem | Growing (modern) | Declining |
| iOS/Android Support | Latest versions | Falling behind |
| Developer Experience | Modern (Next.js + tools) | Dated |
| Web Framework | Next.js (modern) | Any (older patterns) |
| Hot Reload | Instant (web dev server) | Slow |
| Future-proof | Yes (actively maintained) | No (being replaced) |
| Migration Path | From Cordova (easy) | N/A |
Choose NextNative if:
- You're currently using Cordova
- You want modern mobile development tools
- You need better performance than Cordova
- You want actively maintained software
- You need support for latest iOS/Android versions
- You want to future-proof your app
- You prefer modern JavaScript APIs over callbacks
- You want better developer experience
- You need faster hot reload and debugging
- You want to use Next.js with mobile apps
Stick with Cordova if:
- You have a very old app with no budget for updates
- You're comfortable with legacy technology
- You don't need modern mobile features
- You can't allocate time for migration
How to Migrate from Cordova to Capacitor + Next.js
Set up a new Next.js project with App Router
Move your existing web code (HTML, CSS, JS) into the Next.js structure
Install Capacitor and configure it for your app
Replace Cordova plugins with Capacitor equivalents (most are available)
Update callback-based plugin code to use modern async/await patterns
Configure Capacitor for iOS and Android builds
Test thoroughly on both platforms
Remove Cordova configuration and dependencies
Deploy your modernized app
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Capacitor really better than Cordova?
Yes. Capacitor was built by the Ionic team (same people) to replace Cordova with modern web technologies. It has better performance, modern APIs, active development, and easier integration with modern frameworks like Next.js.
Will my Cordova plugins work with Capacitor?
Most popular Cordova plugins have Capacitor equivalents. The Capacitor team has built modern replacements for common features. Some legacy Cordova plugins can work with compatibility mode, but it's better to use native Capacitor plugins.
How long does migration take?
For a typical app, 1-4 weeks depending on complexity. Most of the time is rebuilding your UI with Next.js and replacing plugins. The Capacitor team provides migration guides to help.
Is Cordova being discontinued?
While not officially discontinued, Cordova is in maintenance mode with minimal new development. The industry has moved to Capacitor for hybrid apps. It's wise to migrate before Cordova loses support entirely.
Will my app perform better with Capacitor?
Yes. Capacitor uses modern WebView technology and better integration with native platforms. Combined with Next.js's optimizations, your app will be faster and more responsive than with Cordova.
Can I modernize my app gradually?
You can migrate incrementally, but it's often cleaner to rebuild with Next.js + Capacitor. This is a good opportunity to improve your code architecture and user experience while modernizing the tech stack.
Conclusion
If you're using Cordova, migration to Capacitor + Next.js is inevitable. Cordova is legacy technology being replaced by Capacitor. Make the switch now while you have time to do it properly—get modern performance, better APIs, and a future-proof foundation.
Modernize with Capacitor + Next.js
NextNative provides everything you need to migrate from Cordova: modern Capacitor setup, Next.js configuration, and all the plugins you need.
🎁50% off for the first 40 customers, 5 left
Ready to Get Started?
Follow these step-by-step tutorials to build your mobile app
How to Convert Your Next.js App to iOS & Android
30 minutes • beginner
Learn how to transform your Next.js web application into fully functional iOS and Android mobile apps using Capacitor. This guide covers installation, configuration, and deployment to app stores.
How to Add Push Notifications to Your Next.js Mobile App
45 minutes • intermediate
Implement push notifications in your Next.js mobile app using Capacitor's Push Notifications plugin and Firebase Cloud Messaging. Send notifications to iOS and Android users.
How to Add In-App Purchases to Your Next.js App
60 minutes • intermediate
Monetize your Next.js mobile app with in-app purchases and subscriptions using RevenueCat. This guide covers setup, implementation, and testing for both iOS and Android.