Since Android 5.0, Google has decoupled WebView from the main OS. This allows it to be updated via the Play Store independently, ensuring security patches reach users without waiting for a full system update. 2. Hidden Security Pitfalls
Recent research highlighted that WebView often relies on system-level handlers that perform minimal checks, lacking advanced features like OCSP Must-Staple . This can expose apps to certificate caching attacks where malicious actors bypass security checks. in.android.webview-android
Choosing between a "Native" app and a "WebView-based" (Hybrid) app is a primary architectural decision for developers. Build web apps in WebView - Android Developers Since Android 5