Push Notifications

Definition: Push notifications are permission-based messages sent from an app, website, or desktop service that appear as alerts on a user’s device, even when they’re not actively using the app or browser. They’re used to deliver relevant, timely updates, promotional offers, reminders, or personalized messages to encourage action or re-engagement. The best push notifications feel helpful, not intrusive. They’re clear, action-driven, and tailored to what the user actually cares about.

Analogy: Take TikTok, for instance. The app might send a notification that says: “Good evening! Your friend just dropped a new video. Check it out! ” Or they nudge you that someone whose post you liked earlier just shared something new and you shouldn’t miss it!

These types of push notifications are:

• Timely – They greet you based on the time of day.
• Behavioral – Triggered by your in-app actions (e.g. liking, following, or watching).
• Personalized – Tied to your relationships or interests.

This approach feels less like a marketing blast and more like a personal nudge, which is usually effective in keeping users engaged without overwhelming them.