OS-Detection Plugin for Targeted Lightbox Display

Overview

A client in Switzerland approached me with a unique request—to develop a custom plugin for their Wix website that detects a visitor’s operating system (Android or iOS) and triggers a corresponding lightbox with OS-specific content. The goal was to create a seamless, device-aware user experience that maximized relevance without sacrificing performance.

Using Wix Velo, browser APIs, and efficient JavaScript logic, we crafted a plugin that not only delivered this functionality smoothly but also maintained top-tier performance across all devices.

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The Problem: One-Size-Fits-All Pop-Ups Missed the Mark

Before the plugin was introduced, the client’s website treated all visitors the same—regardless of their device. This generic approach meant missing out on a valuable opportunity to serve personalized, OS-specific content that could drive better engagement and conversions.

Key challenges:

• No Device Awareness: All users saw the same lightbox, whether they were on Android, iOS, or desktop—missing the chance to promote platform-specific apps or offers.

• Disconnected User Experience: The pop-ups often felt out of place and failed to align with the user's device context, leading to reduced relevance and user friction.

The Solution: Smart Plugin with OS-Aware Lightboxes

To create a smart, responsive user experience, we developed a custom OS-detection plugin using Wix Velo, JavaScript, and browser detection APIs. Here’s how we tackled the project:

1. Accurate Cross-Platform OS Detection

We implemented lightweight JavaScript that identifies the user's OS at page load, distinguishing between Android, iOS, and desktop devices. This allowed for highly targeted lightbox displays.

2. Conditional Lightbox Triggers

Each OS had its own pre-built lightbox in Wix. Once the plugin determined the device type, it triggered the appropriate lightbox. we also added a fallback mechanism to display a default lightbox in case detection failed.

3. Seamless Integration with Wix

Despite Wix’s limitations, we smoothly integrated the plugin using Velo APIs to trigger Wix lightboxes without delays or UI conflicts. The result was smooth, context-sensitive interactions.

4. Lightweight & Optimized for Speed

The entire solution was designed to be lightweight and non-intrusive, ensuring zero impact on the website’s load speed or performance. Efficient coding practices kept the detection process fast and invisible to users.

5. Rigorous Cross-Browser & Device Testing

We tested the plugin thoroughly across all major browsers (Chrome, Safari, Firefox) and devices to ensure consistent behavior. Edge cases were handled gracefully to avoid missed triggers or UI bugs.

Results & Impact

✅ Increased Engagement: Users received relevant content tied to their device, making the lightboxes more engaging.

✅ Higher Conversion Potential: Tailored content led to improved click-through and interaction rates.

✅ Positive Client Feedback: The client appreciated the smooth performance, professional execution, and the value the feature added to their brand.

✅ Zero Performance Trade-off: Despite the dynamic behavior, the site remained fast and reliable.

Technologies Used

• Wix Velo – For lightbox management and plugin control logic

• JavaScript – For OS detection and event-driven lightbox triggering

• Browser APIs – To determine device operating system in real-time

Let’s Build Smart User Experiences Together!

Looking to deliver device-specific experiences, promote your mobile app, or increase engagement with context-aware features? We can help you bring those ideas to life with custom plugins and smart UI tools built on Wix.

📩 Contact us today, and let’s make your website more powerful, personalized, and engaging!