iOS App Push Notification
What are native App Push Notifications?
App push notifications are brief, targeted messages sent from your iOS app directly to a user’s device. Their purpose is to bring users back to the app, notify them of relevant updates, and inspire quick action — such as checking a new message, redeeming an offer, or exploring a new feature.
On iOS, notifications can be presented in multiple styles: banners, alerts, badges, or lock screen updates. They can include text, images, sounds, or interactive buttons. Users can also manage how these notifications appear, tailoring them to their preferences.
How do App Push Notifications work on iPhone and iPad (iOS)?
Push notifications on iOS are delivered through the Apple Push Notification Service (APNs), which acts as a secure channel between your app and the user’s device. PushAlert acts an an intermediary to help you integrate, compose and send notifications for your iOS app.
- Your create a notification on PushAlert or your app creates a notification payload.
- PushAlert forwards that payload to APNs.
- APNs validates and delivers it to the user’s iPhone or iPad.
- The system presents the notification according to the user’s device settings — whether as a banner, lock screen alert, or notification center item.
Delivery may depend on factors such as internet connectivity, the user’s notification permissions, device status, and the app’s targeting and scheduling.
The Subscription & Permission Flow on iOS?
Unlike older Android versions where permission was implicit, iOS has always required explicit user consent. No notifications can be sent until the user approves it.
The subscriber journey for iOS app push notifications typically involves the following steps:
- App installation: The user downloads and installs the app from the App Store.
- Permission request: On first launch (or at a relevant moment), the app displays Apple’s native prompt asking for notification permissions. The user must accept to receive push alerts.
- Notification sent: Once permission is granted, the app sends the notification request to PushAlert, which relays it to APNs.
- Notification delivery: The device receives the alert and displays it on the lock screen, as a banner, or in Notification Center.
- User preferences: Users can fine-tune notification settings anytime from iOS Settings or the app’s in-app settings, including sound, badges, preview styles, or turning notifications off entirely.
Receiving Notifications When the App Is Closed
A key advantage of iOS push notifications is that they work even when the app isn’t active — as long as the user has installed the app, granted permission, and has network connectivity.
Notifications may be received in three states:
- Foreground: The app is open and active. You can intercept the notification and customize how it’s shown.
- Background: The app isn’t currently being used but remains in memory. The notification appears normally.
- Killed: The app is fully closed. The notification still arrives via APNs and can wake the app when the user taps it.
Why Use Push Notifications in Your iOS App?
Integrating push notifications into your iOS app can create meaningful touchpoints with your users, increasing both engagement and retention. Here’s why they matter:
- Keep users informed: Instantly deliver critical updates like breaking news, reminders, or service alerts.
- Boost engagement: Bring users back to your app with personalized prompts, product announcements, or exclusive offers.
- Enhance user experience: Provide useful, real-time information tailored to individual preferences.
- Increase conversions: Promote time-sensitive deals, abandoned cart reminders, or loyalty campaigns that drive actions.
- Improve retention: Consistent, relevant notifications can remind users why your app matters and keep them active over time.