In today’s fast-moving digital world, keeping people engaged and informed is more important than ever. Whether it's a news update, a sale alert, or a reminder to drink water, one small tool does a big job—push notifications.
You’ve likely seen them pop up on your phone or computer. But what exactly are push notifications, and why are they such a big deal for businesses and apps?
Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What is a Push Notification?
A push notification is a short message that pops up on your phone, tablet, or computer from an app or website. It can show up even if you’re not using that app at the moment.
Think of it like a gentle tap on your shoulder from an app, saying, “Hey, I’ve got something to tell you.”
Examples of Push Notifications
- A message from WhatsApp when someone texts you.
- A weather update from your weather app.
- A sale alert from Amazon or Flipkart.
- A reminder from your calendar about a meeting.
These are all push notifications. They’re quick, direct, and helpful—when used the right way.
Types of Push Notifications
There are different types of push notifications, depending on the device or platform:
1. Mobile Push Notifications: These appear on smartphones and tablets. Most common for apps like Facebook, Instagram, or food delivery services like Zomato.
2. Web Push Notifications: These are notifications from websites. You may see them on your desktop browser or even mobile browser. For example, news sites or e-commerce stores use them to alert you of new content or discounts.
3. In-App Notifications: These pop up while you’re using an app. For example, a game might tell you your energy is full again.
4. Desktop Push Notifications: These are from desktop apps or websites, often used by email services or messaging apps like Slack.
How Do Push Notifications Work?
Let’s keep it simple.
When you install an app or visit a website, it may ask for permission to send you notifications. If you allow it, the app or website can send you messages whenever something important happens.
Here’s a basic step-by-step of what happens:
- You install an app or visit a website.
- The app or site asks, “Can we send you notifications?”
- If you click Allow, you’re now subscribed.
- When something new happens—like a discount or message—the app sends a push notification to your device.
- You see the message instantly—even if the app is closed.
That’s it! Pretty neat, right?
Why Push Notifications Are Useful
Push notifications are powerful, both for users and businesses. Here’s why:
For Users:
- Stay Updated: You get real-time updates without opening the app.
- Save Time: No need to search for news or deals; they come to you.
- Reminders: Useful for tasks, meetings, shopping, or health tracking.
For Businesses:
- Better Engagement: They bring people back to the app or website.
- Higher Sales: Discount alerts can lead to more purchases.
- Customer Retention: Regular contact helps build loyalty.
- Instant Communication: Faster than emails or SMS.
In short, it’s a win-win. But only if used smartly.
Do People Actually Like Push Notifications?
Yes—and no.
Many people do appreciate helpful notifications, like reminders, messages, or offers. But when notifications are too frequent, irrelevant, or annoying, people unsubscribe or uninstall the app.
The key is balance.
📌 People Like Notifications That Are:
- Useful and timely
- Personalized to their interests
- Not too frequent
❌ People Dislike Notifications That Are:
- Repetitive or spammy
- Unrelated to their needs
- Sent at odd hours
How to Write a Good Push Notification
If you’re a business owner, app developer, or content creator, here are some tips to write push notifications that people love:
1. Keep it Short
People scan, they don’t read. Stay under 100 characters if possible.
Example: Big Sale Today! Up to 60% off – Shop now!
2. Add Value
Give people a reason to click. Offer something helpful or exciting.
Example: Your order has shipped! Track it here.
3. Create Urgency
Use time-sensitive language if there's a deadline.
Example: Ends in 3 hours! Extra 20% off on all items.
4. Personalize It
Use the user’s name or previous activity.
Example: Hi Rahul, new offers on items you viewed last week!
5. Avoid Spamming
Don’t send too many in a day. One or two is usually enough.
When to Send Push Notifications
Timing is everything. Even the most well-written message can be ignored if it arrives at the wrong moment. On the other hand, a perfectly timed notification can catch attention and spark action instantly. That’s why choosing the right time to send push notifications is just as important as the message itself.
✅ Best Times to Send:
- Morning (8 AM – 10 AM): People are waking up, checking their phones, and planning their day.
- Lunch (12 PM – 2 PM): A natural break when users often scroll through their phones to relax.
- Evening (6 PM – 9 PM): The workday is done, and people are more open to engaging with apps, news, or shopping.
🚫 Times to Avoid:
Steer clear of sending notifications late at night or early in the morning—people are sleeping or just getting started with their day and may find these messages irritating. Also, avoid busy hours, especially during work meetings or rush hours, when users are unlikely to check or act on notifications.
Instead, aim for moments when users are more relaxed, free, and likely to welcome your message with interest, not annoyance. A well-timed notification feels like a helpful nudge, not a disruption.
Popular Tools for Sending Push Notifications
You don’t have to build everything from scratch. Many platforms help you send push notifications easily:
Popular Tools:
- Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM) – Free and powerful for mobile apps.
- OneSignal – Great for both web and mobile.
- PushEngage – Popular for blogs and e-commerce.
- Airship – Enterprise-level notifications.
- Larapush – Best for life time, no recuring bill.
These tools offer dashboards, targeting, automation, and even A/B testing.
The Future of Push Notifications
Push notifications are becoming smarter. With AI and machine learning, businesses can now send personalized messages at the perfect time, to the right people, with the right content.
Some trends we’re seeing:
- AI-based personalization
- Voice-based push (like Alexa reminders)
- Rich media notifications (images, videos, buttons)
- Geolocation-based messages (offers when you’re near a store)
In the future, push notifications may become even more interactive and engaging.
Final Thoughts
Push notifications are a small but mighty tool in the digital world. When used correctly, they can boost engagement, improve communication, and even increase sales. For users, they offer convenience, reminders, and updates at just the right time.
But like any tool, they must be used wisely. The best push notifications are helpful, timely, and personalized—not annoying or spammy.
Whether you’re a business owner, app developer, or just a curious learner, understanding push notifications gives you a powerful edge in today’s connected world.
Also Read This: LaraPush Review: A Powerful Self-Hosted Push Notification for Bloggers, Business and Startups