Ensuring your participants and your team are using compatible devices and browsers is a critical part of preparing for a study. Using unsupported configurations can lead to failed session joins, audio/video issues, or incomplete recordings.
Moderator & Observer compatibility
For anyone moderating or observing a live session (e.g., LiveShare):
Use Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, or Brave
Must be on a desktop or laptop computer
Keep the browser updated to the latest version
Moderation and observation are not supported in:
mobile browsers
unsupported or older browser versions
unsupported operating systems
Compatibility for replay and review
To replay previously recorded sessions, the best experience is also with:
Google Chrome
Microsoft Edge
Brave
Other modern browsers - such as Safari on desktop - may work, but may offer a less consistent experience compared to the recommended browsers.
Participant compatibility
Participants may join from desktop/laptop computers, iOS/iPadOS devices, or Android devices, depending on your study setup.
Desktop and laptop computers
For participants using a computer:
Supported browsers:
Google Chrome (version 121 or newer)
Microsoft Edge (version 121 or newer)
Brave (version 121 or newer)
Supported operating systems:
macOS 10.15 (Catalina) and newer
Windows 10 and Windows 11
Chrome OS 121 or newer
iOS / iPadOS
Participants on mobile Apple devices can join if:
iOS version is 12.2 or above
iPadOS version is 13.1 or above
Important note:
iOS 13.0 has known issues that prevent the Participate app from working properly. If participants are on iOS 13.0, ask them to update their device before joining.
Android
Participants on Android devices must be running:
Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) or above
Because Android OS can vary widely across devices, manufacturers, and customizations, behavior may differ even on the same OS version. If possible, test with the participant’s actual device prior to a live session.
Operational notes and recommendations
Test in advance
Device compatibility is often the cause of failed or incomplete sessions. Always:
test the participant’s device before a moderated session
use Preview Links & Preview Sessions to validate setup without consuming session quotas
Mobile caveats
Mobile testing — especially with prototypes or web-based content — may behave differently in the Participate app than in a native browser:
some elements may not load as expected
gestures or certain interactions may differ based on OS and manufacturer
See the troubleshooting articles for guidance on addressing mobile test anomalies.
Participant communication
When inviting participants, explicitly state:
which devices and browsers are supported
that they should update their OS and browser before joining
that a headset/microphone and stable internet improve session success
Clear expectations reduce confusion and session failures.
Summary of core compatibility rules
Role | Supported Platform | Recommended Browsers |
Moderator / Observer | Desktop/Laptop | Chrome, Edge, Brave |
Participant (Desktop) | macOS, Windows, ChromeOS | Chrome, Edge, Brave |
Participant (Mobile) | iOS 12.2+, iPadOS 13.1+, Android 6.0+ | Participate app |