The capability to deliver messages to a user’s device from a web application on Apple’s mobile operating system, even when the browser is not actively in use, allows for timely updates and engagement. This functionality involves a complex interplay between web technologies, Apple’s push notification service, and user permissions. For example, a news application could use this to alert users to breaking stories, or an e-commerce site could inform customers of order updates.
The advantage lies in the ability to re-engage users and provide critical information promptly, fostering better user experiences and increasing app usage. Historically, this was limited to native applications, but advancements in web standards have enabled similar functionality for web apps installed on iOS devices. This opens new avenues for developers to reach a wider audience without requiring users to download a dedicated application from the App Store.