Why a Glide App Works in One Browser (or Device) But Not Another
Sometimes, a published Glide app might work perfectly for one user, but appear broken, offline, or unresponsive for another — even if they’re using the same link. This is usually caused by differences in browsers, device settings, or local networks. Here’s how to troubleshoot.
🔍 Common Causes (All Devices)
1. Browser Version or Compatibility
Glide apps work best in modern browsers that support service workers, JavaScript, and WebAssembly. Outdated browsers may fail silently or show an “offline” error.
✅ Supported: Latest versions of Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge
⚠️ Not supported: Internet Explorer, some older Android WebViews
Try this:
Update to the latest version of your browser.
2. Local Cache or Service Worker Problems
Glide apps use service workers to cache data. If something goes wrong (e.g. during a deploy or bad connection), the app may get stuck in a broken offline state.
Try this:
Do a hard refresh (hold
Ctrl+F5orCmd+Shift+R)Open the app in incognito/private mode
On mobile, reboot the device or clear Safari/Chrome app cache
3. Network or Firewall Restrictions
Some corporate or school networks block domains like glide.page, glideapps.com, or our CDN (like Cloudflare). This can make the app appear offline or stuck on a loading screen.
Try this:
Switch to a different network (e.g. mobile data)
Try loading https://glide.page directly
Run a traceroute to
glide.pageif you're on desktopAsk IT to whitelist
*.glide.pageand*.glideapps.com
4. Browser Extensions or Privacy Settings
Extensions like ad blockers or anti-tracking tools may block Glide's scripts or local storage, especially on desktop browsers.
Try this:
Disable extensions
Test in an incognito window with no extensions enabled
📱 Mobile-Specific Issues
1. App Opens in In-App Browser
If a user opens your Glide app from a link in an app like Instagram, Gmail, or Slack, it may open in a limited in-app browser (not full Chrome or Safari). These browsers can block key features like camera access.
Try this:
Tap the "•••" menu and choose Open in browser (Safari or Chrome).
2. Low Power Mode or Background App Restrictions
On mobile, Low Power Mode or strict background app settings may interfere with how the app syncs or loads new data.
Try this:
Disable Low Power Mode
Make sure Safari or Chrome is allowed to run in the background
If using iOS, make sure “Web Content” restrictions are off
3. Offline or Limited Connectivity
Phones may automatically switch between Wi-Fi and cellular. If the app tried loading during a weak signal, it may have cached a broken version.
Try this:
Toggle airplane mode off/on
Reopen the app once a solid connection is available
If the problem persists, clear Safari/Chrome website data
💡 If You're Still Stuck
If the app still won’t load or shows the wrong data:
Try a different browser (Chrome, Safari, Firefox)
Restart the device
Ask another person on the same network to try the link
Open the app in the Builder interface and start a chat with Support
🛠️ If the App Was Installed (PWA via "Add to Home Screen")
When a Glide app is installed via "Add to Home Screen," it runs as a Progressive Web App (PWA) in standalone mode, which can introduce unique behaviors.
Common Issues with Installed Apps
App shows old data or won’t update
Try force-quitting the app and reopening it. This resets the service worker.
App stuck offline even with internet
You may be seeing a cached version. Try opening the app URL in your browser and refreshing.
No refresh or back button
PWAs don't include browser controls. To refresh, close and reopen the app.
Login or file uploads not working
Some devices block popups or file access in standalone mode. Try using the app in Safari or Chrome instead.
💡 Pro Tip
If the app feels frozen or outdated:
Open the app link in your browser
Refresh the page
Reinstall using "Add to Home Screen"
🛠 For App Creators: Collect This Info When Reporting a Browser Issue
When reporting to Glide or your team, include:
Device model + OS version (e.g. iPhone 14, iOS 17.5)
Browser and version (e.g. Safari 17.5.1)
Network type (Wi-Fi, 5G, school/work network)
Whether it works in another browser or incognito mode
Screenshot or video of the issue