Appreciate the response pclin.
Yes, setting colors works from web view and mobile app.
No LevelShifter installed, couldn't find where buy one. Debug log had no issues once I fixed the root permissions.
Ended up just buying SK6812 and switched to SPI and everything working as it previously was. Guess i'll hang onto the WS2815 strips and save for another project if i can find an appropriate LevelShifter.