Installed App
When you install SpotPatrol as an app on your device, you get native push notifications that work even when your browser isn't open. This provides the most reliable notification experience.
Note: This isn't a traditional app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Instead, it's a special browser mode that lets SpotPatrol work like a standalone app on your device. You install it directly from our website while using your browser.
How Background Notifications Work
Once you install the app and allow notifications, SpotPatrol uses Web Push technology to send alerts directly to your device's notification center. These work even when:
- The app is completely closed
- Your browser isn't running
- Your device is locked or sleeping
- You're using other apps
This is completely different from browser notifications, which only work when you're actively on the SpotPatrol tab.
Installing SpotPatrol as an App
Desktop (Windows/Mac) - Works great with Chrome or Edge. Go to Notification Methods on your dashboard, expand the Additional Contact Methods section, and look for the Install button in the Installed App area. Click it for additional instruction. Depending on your machine or device type, and the app can be added to your Taskbar or Home screen. Once installed, you'll get notifications on your device even when your browser is closed.
Android phones - Use Chrome to visit SpotPatrol and tap the Install App prompt. The app will appear on your home screen and give you full background notifications.
iPhones with Safari - Visit SpotPatrol in Safari, tap the Share button, then Add to Home Screen. This creates an app icon, but iOS limits background notifications, so email or SMS might be more reliable for iPhone users.
Why the Installed App is the Best Option
Browser notifications only work when you have the SpotPatrol tab open and active in your browser.
Installed app notifications use advanced Web Push technology to deliver alerts to your device's notification center - just like notifications from Facebook, Twitter, or any other app. They work completely in the background, even when SpotPatrol is closed.
Device Support
Desktop computers - Full support on Windows and Mac with Chrome or Edge. Linux has limited support depending on your browser.
Android - Full background notification support. Works great.
iPhone/iPad - Limited due to Safari restrictions. The app works, but background notifications aren't as reliable. For iPhone users, email and SMS notifications tend to work better.
Setting Up App Notifications
Once you've installed the app, go to Notification Methods on your dashboard and expand the Advanced Notification Methods section to access the Installed App options. Enable browser notifications in your dashboard - your device will ask for permission, say yes, and notifications will automatically work through the installed app.
Not Getting App Notifications?
Here are some things to try:
Desktop issues - Check your Windows or Mac notification settings and make sure SpotPatrol has permission. Also verify that browser notifications are turned on in your dashboard.
Android troubles - Check your phone's notification settings for SpotPatrol and make sure the app can run in the background.
iPhone limitations - iOS restricts background notifications, so the app needs to be used recently for best results. For reliable iPhone notifications, email or SMS work better.
Can't install the app? - Make sure you're using a recent version of Chrome or Safari. Some older devices don't support app installation.
Still having trouble? Contact us and we'll help you get it sorted out.