Devices & System Requirements for Hungry Canadian Merchants

Choose the right device setup for reliable order management, smooth staff workflows, and fewer missed orders. This guide covers supported devices, recommended configurations, and operational best practices.
Merchants
Hardware
Setup

What matters most

Hungry Canadian works across tablets, phones, and web browsers. For most locations, a dedicated tablet provides the best in-store experience, while owners and managers may benefit from smartphone access for oversight.
Top recommendation: Android tablet (Android OS 15+)
Best for oversight: Smartphone (Owner/Manager)
Best for office work: Web dashboard

Supported devices

Hungry Canadian supports multiple device types so you can choose a setup that matches your workflow. This flexibility supports restaurants and non-restaurant merchants, including retail, specialty shops, and other local businesses.

  • Android tablets and Android phones
  • iPads and iPhones
  • Desktop and laptop computers using a modern web browser

Recommended device setup

Primary in-store device: Tablet

A tablet is recommended for day-to-day order handling because it improves visibility, reduces operational friction, and makes it easier for staff to work quickly during rush periods.

  • Clearer order viewing and faster acceptance
  • Improved staff usability compared to phones
  • Better fit for counter or kitchen workflows

Owner and manager access: Smartphone

Owners and managers may benefit from mobile access for oversight and execution when off-site, while staff operate a dedicated in-store tablet.

  • Monitor order flow from anywhere
  • Support store execution without interrupting staff workflows
  • Useful for multi-location or owner-operator oversight

Staff, manager, and owner access levels

Hungry Canadian supports role-based access so the right people have the right level of control. Staff typically handle day-to-day order operations, while managers and owners may require additional oversight and administrative access.

Mobile apps

The Hungry Canadian Orders app is used by merchants to manage incoming orders and day-to-day order operations. Keep your apps updated (or enable automatic updates) to ensure the best experience and to reduce the risk of disruptions.

Device preference hierarchy

Hungry Canadian operates across all supported devices, but field results show the following hierarchy produces the most reliable day-to-day merchant experience.

  1. Android tablet (Android OS 15 or higher) — optimized performance and stronger printer compatibility
  2. iPad and iPhone — strong option, but may require more setup guidance in some environments
  3. Web dashboard — best for admin work, reporting, and menu management; less ideal for restaurant-style receipt workflows

Printing and device compatibility

Your device choice can affect receipt printing behavior. Android tablets generally provide the smoothest setup and operation for thermal receipt workflows. For printer guidance, supported models, and troubleshooting, use:

Receipt Printers & Printing

If your device is connected but you are not seeing expected printing behavior, contact support with your device type and printer model.

Using the web dashboard effectively

Web access is ideal for administrative and office workflows, especially for merchants that do not require rapid, kitchen-style order handling. Many non-restaurant merchants prefer the web experience for day-to-day management.

  • Menu and product updates
  • Store profile and branding edits
  • Reports and analytics review
  • Store-level settings and operational management

While receipts can print to standard office printers, restaurant workflows typically require a thermal printer for speed, format, and efficiency.

POS systems and integrations

Hungry Canadian supports select POS integrations to help streamline operations. Current integration availability may vary by merchant environment.

  • Supported: Square, Lightspeed
  • Coming soon: Deliverect

Additional details are available in the POS systems and integrations guide.

Best practices for success

Small setup choices can materially reduce missed orders and improve reliability during busy service periods.

  • Keep the app updated or enable automatic updates
  • Place the primary device in a visible, consistent location for staff
  • Enable notifications and confirm alerts are allowed
  • Turn device volume up so alerts can be heard during kitchen or rush noise
  • Disable aggressive battery-saving settings that pause background activity
  • Keep the order device plugged in during service hours

Common device mistakes to avoid

  • Using a shared personal phone as the only order device
  • Running outdated operating systems or outdated app versions
  • Muted notifications or low device volume during service
  • Relying on web-only access for restaurant operations
  • Allowing the device to sleep or disconnect during service hours

Internet and power requirements

  • Stable internet is required for real-time order handling
  • Reliable Wi-Fi is recommended for in-store devices
  • Consistent power helps prevent missed orders and interruptions
  • Avoid sleep and power-saving modes that pause background activity

Page quality and verification

Last updated: 2026-01-08
Verified by: Hungry Canadian team (field testing with live merchant environments)
Verification method: Operational validation across Android, iOS, and web merchant workflows.