We design and develop for both the Apple App Store and Google Play. The app development process is largely the same as building a website from your perspective as the client, but from our perspective the process is an order of magnitude more difficult. If you're looking to build an app you should consider that building an interactive page in an app often takes ten times longer to perfect than its website counterpart, which consequently leads to higher prices and longer timelines.
Often, the most practical circumstance under which to build a real, downloadable app is when you already have a business with revenue to support its development and a real-world need for some function that a website can't handle. Very often, a progressive web app can be just as effective. Of course, it all depends, and we will be blunt in our assessment of what direction we recommend for you and your business.
Don't hesitate to reach out to us for more information.