Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) Browser Support
Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) have reshaped how we build and use web applications—offering native app-like experiences, offline support, push notifications, and the ability to install web apps directly to your home screen. But how well are they supported across different browsers? Let’s break it down.
What Browsers Support PWA Apps Exactly?
For a browser to fully support PWAs, it must include:
- Service Workers – Enables offline use and caching.
- Web App Manifest – Allows the app to be installable.
- HTTPS – Required for security and background functionality.
- Install Prompt Support – For native installation without relying on user workarounds.
Browser-by-Browser Support Overview
✅ Fully Supported Browsers
- Google Chrome (Desktop & Android)
Full support for all PWA features, including install prompts, push notifications, background sync, and offline access. - Microsoft Edge (Chromium)
Identical to Chrome in PWA support; allows installation and integrates well with Windows. - Opera
Based on Chromium, offers complete support for PWAs. - Samsung Internet
Full support on Android with installation and offline features. - Brave
Full PWA compatibility thanks to its Chromium base. - Vivaldi
Supports all core PWA features; apps can be installed and run like native apps.
⚠️ Partially Supported Browsers
- Apple Safari (iOS & macOS)
Limited installation support; users can "Add to Home Screen" manually.
Lacks push notifications on iOS (though recently added on macOS).
Background sync and install prompts are restricted. - Mozilla Firefox
Supports service workers and caching, but lacks native PWA installation on desktop.
No support for install prompts or push notifications on desktop. - Floorp (Firefox-Based)
Inherits Firefox's limitations: PWA functionality exists but no native install UI.
❌ Not Supported
- DuckDuckGo Browser
Currently does not support PWAs at all.
No service worker execution, manifest handling, or install prompts.
As a privacy-first browser, many modern web APIs—including PWA-related features—are blocked or disabled.
Conclusion
If you're building or using PWAs, Chromium-based browsers like Chrome, Edge, Opera, Brave, and Samsung Internet offer the most complete experience. Firefox and Safari can run PWAs to an extent, but lack important features like push notifications and installation UI—especially on desktop.
Meanwhile, DuckDuckGo is not currently a viable option for PWAs, as it disables many of the underlying technologies. If your audience includes users of privacy browsers, make sure to offer fallback experiences or recommend alternate browsers for full functionality.