Push notifications drive 30% of app engagement. Here is how to implement them correctly.

By David Friedman , Founder of AppBrewers

Push notifications are the highest-ROI engagement channel for apps. But implemented poorly, they annoy users and drive uninstalls. Here is our implementation guide.

Platform Comparison

Platform Framework Reliability Rich Media

iOS APNS Excellent Images, actions

Android Firebase Cloud Messaging Excellent Images, actions, custom UI

Web Web Push API Good (Android), Poor (iOS Safari) Limited

Implementation Steps

1. Request Permission at the Right Time

Never ask for notification permission on first launch. Wait until the user has experienced value.

Good timing: After a positive action (completed order, saved item, achievement).

Bad timing: App launch, splash screen, during onboarding.

2.…