convert arduino web code to an app.

I have a working code, running on an esp8266, that I would like to convert to an app-based-program vs web server. Currently, the esp8266 turns itself into a wifi access point on first boot. Once the user connects to it, they can instruct the esp to connect to their home wifi (they can select what ssid they want to connect to and then provide the password.) After they set that up, the webpage reloads and the user disconnects from the esp and reconnects to their wifi. The user then needs to find what IP address the esp is using and connect to it via a web browser. After they’ve connected to their own wifi, the user can connect to the esp to control the lights. This is how it currently works. I would like to create an app that hosts all of the web server information for the esp, thus freeing up the esp hardware. The app must also be able to communicate with the esp. The first time it is turned on, the esp should automatically create an access point. The user can connect to the access point, and the app will prompt the user to tell the esp which wifi to connect to on next boot (and store the password.) Once the esp and the app are connected to the same wifi, the app will have the ability to auto-discover the esp (so the user won't need to know what ip it gets.) After it auto-discovers the esp, the app will display all user-friendly controls for the lights. The user should be able to select what effect, color, and speed they want to run. The user will also be able to choose how long each effect will run for, and set a shut-off timer if desired. (All options available through the current web server.) All transitions should be smooth-- fading from effect to effect with no abrupt darkness or flashing light. I have attached what the current web server looks like so you can see what I have already.