Troubleshooting Desktop App Handoff and Launch

Resolve issues when opening test recordings or running tests locally through the TestOwl Desktop App.

TestOwl allows you to record user journeys in real local browsers and execute tests against local development environments using the TestOwl Desktop App.

When you click Record in Desktop App or Open in Desktop App from the web dashboard, your browser hands off the session directly to your installed TestOwl application via an operating system link (testowl://).

Common Issues & Solutions

1. Browser Prompt Does Not Open the Desktop App

When you trigger a desktop action from your web browser, the browser displays a standard prompt asking: "Open TestOwl?"

If you accidentally clicked Cancel: Click the button again in the dashboard and select Open TestOwl (or check "Always allow testowl.ai to open these links").
If the prompt never appears: Verify that the TestOwl Desktop App is installed on your computer. If not, download and install the latest version from testowl.ai/download.

2. Desktop App Is Not Signed In

For the desktop app to open your project and record:

Launch the TestOwl Desktop App from your Applications (macOS) or Start Menu (Windows).
Sign in with the same email and credentials you use on the web dashboard.
Select your project to confirm you have access.

3. macOS or Windows Security Warnings

When launching TestOwl for the first time:

macOS: If prompted with a security message regarding an app downloaded from the internet, click Open in System Settings → Privacy & Security.
Windows: If Windows SmartScreen appears, click More info and select Run anyway.

4. Updating the Desktop App

If you experience unexpected behavior or missing features, ensure your desktop client is up to date:

In the Desktop App, check Help → Check for Updates or download the latest release directly from testowl.ai/download.