🤿 Diving into Webflow apps

What they are and a step-by-step guide to setting up the local demo with Ngrok

Hi friends!

It’s been a few months since Webflow updated its app and developer platform, and big names like Make and Jasper have already built native integrations. It's an exciting time, offering opportunities for both indie makers and established companies. I’ve been eager to explore their new integration platform and finally got the opportunity so wanted to dive in and share!

What is a Webflow app?

Think of a Webflow app as what you'd typically understand to be an integration or plugin. It enhances Webflow's functionality, and users can add these directly within the platform. Webflow provides a detailed overview of three types of apps you can create. Here is a high-level summary:

Data clients

These apps let you interact with server-side data like pages and forms. If you're planning to connect to other platforms via APIs, this is where you'll do it. Webflow offers a Figma diagram to show what the API can access. Choose this if you need to handle complex data manipulations or want to interact with Webflow’s Rest APIs.

Screenshot of Webflow’s API diagram, sourced from their Figma design.

Designer extensions

These extensions operate within the Webflow designer, letting you tweak elements, styles, and pages right on the Webflow Canvas. It provides an in-context integration experience for your Webflow app. Opt for this if you need users to make changes within the Webflow editor itself.

Webflow designer extension diagram, sourced from their official documentation.

Hybrid apps

Hybrid apps blend the features of designer extensions and data clients. You can manipulate server-side data while working directly with the Webflow designer. Ideal for feature-rich integrations looking for versatility. This is your go-to if you need a mix of both data handling and UI enhancements.

Webflow Hybrid App diagram, sourced from their official documentation.

How to build a Webflow app

Webflow has a ton of beginner-friendly resources. Among all the options, I find hybrid apps particularly exciting for their versatility. To give you a hands-on view, I've run Webflow’s hybrid app example and have shared a play-by-play.

Are you as excited about Webflow apps as I am? What are you planning to build? I'd love to hear your thoughts. Shoot me a tweet at @ojabowalola or respond to this email.


Lola