Browsers
Discover Different Breed's browser support policy, detailing how we ensure an optimal user experience across mainstream, extended, and legacy browsers and devices.
Overview
Defining browser support is no longer as simple as ensuring a website looks and functions identically across all browsers and devices. With varying capabilities, screen sizes, and resolutions, Different Breed designs websites to deliver user experiences tailored to the capabilities of each browser or device. While most users will have access to core functionality, those with more advanced technology will enjoy an enhanced experience.
Levels Of Support
1. Mainstream Support
Mainstream support ensures consistent features and functionality across widely used and actively supported platforms. These browsers and operating systems are regularly updated by manufacturers, providing security updates and the latest features.
Criteria
Latest and most widely used browsers and devices.
Actively supported by manufacturers.
Scope
All projects include this level of support.
Features and functionality are delivered to the highest standard and fully tested.
2. Extended Support
Extended support covers older browsers and devices still actively supported by manufacturers or with reasonable consumer usage. The experience may differ slightly from mainstream support but remains functional and user-friendly.
Criteria
Legacy browsers and devices still under active support.
Reasonable consumer usage levels.
Scope
Features and functionality provide a functional user experience.
Fully tested and working, though with potential minor differences from mainstream versions.
3. Legacy Support
Legacy support defines browsers and devices that are no longer under active development or support. These platforms are not included in the standard development or testing process, and no graceful fallbacks are implemented.
Criteria
Browsers and devices not supported by manufacturers or deemed to have negligible usage.
Scope
Unsupported platforms are excluded unless specified at the project’s outset.
Additional charges apply for bespoke support and testing requirements.
Optional
Bespoke requirements must be agreed upon per project.
Defined Support
Desktop Browsers
Support for desktop browsers is based on their active development status, market share, and compatibility with modern web standards. Fully tested browsers include the latest versions of:
Google Chrome
Mozilla Firefox
Microsoft Edge
Safari
Mobile Support
Mobile browser support is determined by the operating system version, as most updates are tied to system software rather than standalone browser versions. Modern iOS and Android devices automatically install browser updates alongside system updates unless disabled by the user.
Scope:
Support is defined based on the latest OS versions for iOS and Android.
Testing focuses on the latest browser versions available for each platform.
Supporting Resources
Different Breed defines browser and device support using industry-standard resources, global usage statistics, and market share data. Some references include:
Global StatCounter
Last updated