Subscribe from the Desktop (PWA)

The NotifyHero web app can be installed as a Progressive Web App (PWA), which means it behaves like a native desktop or mobile application.

What is a PWA?

A PWA is a website that can be "installed" on your device. Once installed, it:

  • Has its own icon on your home screen/dock
  • Opens in its own window (no browser chrome)
  • Can work offline
  • Receives push notifications like a native app

Installing the PWA

Chrome / Edge

  1. Go to app.notifyhero.com
  2. Click the install icon in the address bar (⊕ or ↓)
  3. Click "Install"

Or: Menu (⋮) → "Install NotifyHero..."

Firefox

Firefox doesn't support PWA installation natively, but you can:

  1. Use an extension like "Progressive Web Apps for Firefox"
  2. Or simply bookmark the page

Safari (macOS)

  1. Go to app.notifyhero.com
  2. File → "Add to Dock..."

iOS Safari

  1. Go to app.notifyhero.com
  2. Tap the Share button
  3. Tap "Add to Home Screen"

Android Chrome

  1. Go to app.notifyhero.com
  2. Tap Menu (⋮)
  3. Tap "Add to Home screen" or "Install app"

PWA vs Native App

| Feature | PWA | Native App | |---------|-----|------------| | Installation | From browser | From app store | | Updates | Automatic | Via app store | | Notifications | Yes | Yes | | Offline | Limited | Full | | Instant delivery | No | Yes (Android) | | Background sync | Limited | Full | | Battery usage | Low | Low |

When to use the PWA

  • You want quick installation without app store
  • You primarily use desktop
  • You don't need instant delivery
  • You want automatic updates

When to use the native app

  • You need instant delivery (Android)
  • You want full offline support
  • You prefer app store updates
  • You need UnifiedPush support

Troubleshooting

PWA not installing?

  • Make sure you're on HTTPS
  • Clear browser cache and try again
  • Check browser supports PWAs (most modern browsers do)

Notifications not working?

  • Grant notification permissions in browser settings
  • Make sure the PWA is not blocked by system notification settings
  • On macOS, check System Preferences → Notifications

PWA feels slow?

  • The first load may be slow while caching resources
  • Subsequent loads should be instant
  • Check your internet connection