Install App on iPhone

Install Essential Protocols as a Progressive Web App on your iPhone or iPad

Essential Protocols can be installed on your iPhone or iPad as a Progressive Web App (PWA). This gives you a native app-like experience with quick access from your home screen, offline capabilities, and a full-screen interface.

Installation Steps

  1. 1
    Open Safari and navigate to essentialprotocols.com or scan this QR code from your device.
    Safari address bar showing Essential Protocols URL
  2. 2
    Tap the Share button (square with an arrow pointing up) at the bottom of the screen
    Safari share button location
  3. 3
    Scroll down in the share menu and tap "Add to Home Screen"
    Add to Home Screen option in share menu
  4. 4
    You can customize the app name if desired, then tap "Add" in the top-right corner
    Confirm add to home screen dialog
  5. 5
    The Essential Protocols icon will now appear on your home screen
    Essential Protocols app icon on iPhone home screen
  6. 6
    Tap the icon to open Essential Protocols as a standalone app

Important Notes for iPhone Users

There are a few important things to know about PWAs on iOS:

Benefits of Installing the PWA

  • Quick Access: Launch directly from your home screen
  • Full-Screen Experience: No Safari toolbar or address bar
  • Offline Access: View saved protocols even without internet
  • Automatic Updates: Always have the latest version
  • Better Performance: Faster loading and smoother navigation
  • Native App Feel: Works just like an App Store app

Troubleshooting

Can't Find "Add to Home Screen"?

If you don't see the install option:

  • Verify you're using Safari - this is the most common issue!
  • • Make sure you're tapping the Share button (square with arrow), not the bookmark button
  • • Update iOS to the latest version in Settings → General → Software Update
  • • Try closing Safari completely and reopening it
  • • Clear Safari cache: Settings → Safari → Clear History and Website Data

App Won't Install?

If installation fails:

  • • Check that you have enough storage space on your device
  • • Ensure you have a stable internet connection
  • • Try restarting your iPhone
  • • Remove any existing version of the app and try again

App Looks Different from Safari

This is normal! The installed PWA runs in full-screen mode without the Safari toolbar. If you need to access the URL bar or Safari features, open the site in Safari instead of using the home screen icon.

How to Uninstall

To remove the app from your device:

  • • Long-press the Essential Protocols icon on your home screen
  • • Tap "Remove App" from the menu
  • • Confirm by tapping "Delete App"

iOS-Specific Limitations

Due to iOS restrictions, PWAs have some limitations compared to native apps:

  • • Push notifications are not supported on iOS PWAs (as of iOS 16)
  • • Background sync is limited
  • • The app cache may be cleared if not used for several weeks
  • • Some advanced features may work differently than on Android

Adding to iPad

The installation process is identical on iPad. Follow the same steps using Safari on your iPad to add Essential Protocols to your home screen. The app will take advantage of the iPad's larger screen for an enhanced viewing experience.