Technical Requirements

Meal Counter can be utilized on a mobile device via web browser or installed application. The latter includes extended functionality such as Offline Counting and is recommended for site users.

Web Browser

Meal Counter will work on most major browsers, like Chrome, Safari, Edge, or Firefox. The latest versions of these are recommended for the best experience and security. Compatibility with outdated browsers is not supported.

As a general rule, users should select devices that are on these browser versions or later:

  • Chrome v40+

  • Safari v11.1+

  • Firefox v44+

  • Edge v17+

Mobile Application

The installed experience is compatible with the following operating systems with the listed version or later:

  • Android v7.1.2

  • iOS v11.3

Data Usage

Meal Counter App Installation / Storage: <500kb

Meal Counter App Daily Usage: 1 - 3.0 MBs

Known Issues

Kindle Fire devices are not compatible with the installed application experience of Meal Counter. As such, these tablets are not recommended. It is important to note, however, that they are capable of running Meal Counter through their native web browser, Silk.

Please Note

Meal Counter is a Progressive Web Application (PWA) and is not available through Apple's App Store or via Google Play. Installation is easy and is generally as simple as adding the site to the device's home screen like a bookmark. Users must use the device's native browser, Chrome for Android or Safari for iOS. Detailed guidelines can be found in the Meal Counter Knowledge Base.

Device Recommendations

  • Relatively New - The Meal Counter team suggests using devices that are relatively new, preferably within the last couple of years. In general, they will last longer, but they also will continue to receive manufacturer operating system updates for longer periods of time, which helps with compatibility and security. (Most manufacturers eventually stop supporting devices and will stop allowing OS updates. For example, the first generation iPad cannot be updated past version iOS 5.1 and has been deprecated since its release on May 7, 2012.)

  • Operating System - We recommend using one of the two most commonly-used mobile operating systems available, Apple iOS or Google's Android. These two fully support the installed experience. Other operating systems can be used, but they may not support the installed experience and, as such, a browser must be used.

  • Cellular Connectivity - Where possible, we recommend the selection of devices that are capable of connecting to the internet via cellular networks. This affords the greatest accessibility, especially in serving areas without access to wireless networks. When implausible, the offline counting method should be utilized if wireless networks are not available.

  • Test First! - If your organization is considering a bulk acquisition, we recommend purchasing a single device first to ensure optimal functionality.

Email Clients / Services

Meal Counter related emails can viewed on a variety of different email clients. Supported clients and services are as follows:

  • Gmail

  • Yahoo!

  • Outlook