Push messages are a way for apps to send information to your device, even when the app isn’t currently running. They’re often used to deliver important updates or notifications, but they can also be used for marketing messages or ads.
Android uses a system called Google Cloud Messaging to deliver push messages. When you install an app that uses GCM, it will register with GCM and provide a registration ID. The app will then use that ID to send messages to your device. Want to know more about what push messages are on Android? Here’s your answer.
What is a push message?
Push messages are a type of notification that are “pushed” from a server to your Android device. They can be used for a variety of purposes, such as alerting you of a new email or message, or letting you know about an update to an app.
Push messages are handled by the Google Cloud Messaging (GCM) service. When a push message is received, GCM will wake up your app so it can handle the message. Some users get confused about push messages and message blocking. Do you know what is message blocking? In brief, you stop someone from sending you messages.
Types Of Push Messages
- Broadcast messages: These are sent to all devices that have registered with GCM. They do not require a specific app to be installed, and so can be used to send general announcements or updates.
- Targeted messages: These are sent to specific devices or groups of devices. They require that the app they are intended for is installed on the device, and so can be used to send more specific messages or updates.
Purpose of Push Messages
Push messages can be used for a variety of purposes. Some common use cases include:
- Alerting users of new email or messages: Push messages can be used to notify users of new email or messages. The app can be woken up by GCM so that it can fetch the new email or message and show a notification to the user.
- Alerting users of updates to an app: Push messages can be used to notify users of updates to an app. The app can be woken up by GCM so that it can fetch the update and show a notification to the user.
- Sending general announcements: Broadcast push messages can be used to send general announcements to all users of an app.
- Sending targeted announcements: Targeted push messages can be used to send announcements to specific groups of users.
- Sending updates to a user’s data: Push messages can be used to send updates to a user’s data. The app can be woken up by GCM so that it can fetch the updated data and show a notification to the user.
- Sending messages to a user: Push messages can be used to send messages to a user. The app can be woken up by GCM so that it can fetch the message and show a notification to the user.
- Sending updates to a user’s location: Push messages can be used to send updates to a user’s location. The app can be woken up by GCM so that it can fetch the updated location and show a notification to the user.
- Sending updates to a user’s weather: Push messages can be used to send updates to a user’s weather. The app can be woken up by GCM so that it can fetch the updated weather and show a notification to the user.
- Sending updates to a user’s stocks: Push messages can be used to send updates to a user’s stocks. The app can be woken up by GCM so that it can fetch the updated stock information and show a notification to the user.
Push messages are a powerful way to keep users up-to-date with what’s going on in your app. They can be used for a variety of purposes, and are a great way to keep your users engaged with your app.
Difference Between A Push Message And A Text Message
A text message is a short, simple message that is sent from one cell phone to another. A push message, on the other hand, is a message that is sent from a server to a client device, such as a smartphone. The main difference between the two is that a text message is sent directly to a phone number, while a push message is sent to a device that is connected to the internet.
Should I Allow Push Messages?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the decision of whether or not to allow push messages will depend on your individual needs and preferences. However, there are a few things to keep in mind that may help you make your decision.
First, consider what types of push messages you’re likely to receive. If they’re mostly going to be from friends or family, then you may want to allow them so you don’t miss any important messages. On the other hand, if you’re likely to receive a lot of marketing messages or notifications from apps, you may want to disable push messages to avoid being bombarded with unwanted notifications.
Another thing to think about is how often you check your phone. If you’re constantly checking it for new messages, then you probably don’t need to worry about missing anything important. However, if you often let hours or even days go by without looking at your phone, then you may want to consider enabling push messages so you don’t miss anything important.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to allow push messages is up to you. Just be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making your decision.
Sum Up
Push messages can be a useful way to stay up-to-date with what’s happening in your favorite apps, but they can also be a source of annoyance. If you find yourself constantly being bombarded with push messages, you might want to consider disabling them.
