Why WorkZerk Doesn't Support iOS 12 Devices
WorkZerk is built on Microsoft's Blazor Server technology, which unfortunately means we cannot support devices running iOS 12 or earlier. Here's why.
The Technology Behind WorkZerk
Blazor Server applications maintain a persistent, real-time connection between your browser and our servers using a technology called SignalR. This connection enables the responsive, app-like experience you get when using WorkZerk so every click, form submission, and update happens instantly without full page reloads.
Why iOS 12 Falls Short
WebSocket Limitations SignalR relies primarily on WebSockets to maintain that real-time connection. Safari on iOS 12 has known issues with WebSocket stability, causing frequent disconnections and unreliable behaviour. While SignalR can fall back to other transport methods, these alternatives don't provide the performance or reliability that a compliance platform like WorkZerk requires.
Modern JavaScript Requirements Blazor's client-side framework uses modern JavaScript features (ES6+) that aren't fully supported in iOS 12's Safari browser. This includes features essential for the UI to function correctly.
Microsoft's Browser Support Policy Microsoft officially requires Safari 15 or later for Blazor Server applications in current .NET versions. iOS 12 shipped with Safari 12, which falls well outside the supported range.
What About Installing Chrome or Another Browser?
This is a common suggestion, but unfortunately it won't help on iOS devices.
Apple requires all browsers on iOS to use WebKit Safari's underlying rendering engine. This is an App Store policy that applies to Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and every other browser. When you install Chrome on an iPhone, you're essentially getting a different interface wrapped around the same Safari engine underneath.
This means Chrome on iOS has the same JavaScript limitations, the same WebSocket issues, and the same compatibility gaps as Safari. It's completely different from desktop, where Chrome uses its own independent engine.
Additionally, Google dropped support for iOS 12 in Chrome back in 2021, so users on these older devices can't install current versions anyway.
What This Means For You
If you're using an iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, or iPad Air (1st generation) that cannot update beyond iOS 12, you won't be able to use WorkZerk on those devices.
Recommended Solutions
To use WorkZerk, you have a few options:
Update your device to iOS 15 or later, which is available on iPhone 6s and newer, iPad Air 2 and newer, and all iPad Pro models
Use a different mobile device running a current operating system
Access WorkZerk from any modern desktop browser on a computer or laptop
