Timy Space

Tag: push notifications

  • How to Use Push Notifications to Increase App Retention (Without Losing Users)

    In-app push notifications are an important part of any application.

    Why?

    Because they remind users that your app exists on their device. Beyond reminders, push notifications can promote features, highlight content, and drive engagement, all of which help improve user retention.

    Think of push notifications as an internal communication tool. It’s a way to have a conversation with your users. So, make it count for your numbers!

    Here are some thoughts from me, from two perspectives:

    • the person sending push notifications
    • the user receiving them

    POV: The person behind the push notifications

    First, you need to understand your product and your users really well.

    Why? Because if your message doesn’t match their vibe, it will sound rigid, awkward, or just… off.

    Deliver your message clearly. A push notification usually has:

    • a title
    • a body message

    Don’t make it too long. There’s a character limit, and if you exceed it, the system will cut your message off, which means your point won’t land. If you really need to explain something, put it in the body message, but personally, I still prefer keeping it short. Push notifications should deliver instant value.

    Before sending a mass notification, always test it on your own account. Small mistakes feel much bigger when they reach thousands of users.

    Play with words. Give your message a human touch. Write like you’re talking to a friend or colleague, not like a robot.

    Be careful with clickbait. If you overuse it or promise something that isn’t there, users will lose trust. The worst-case scenario? They delete your app. And you definitely don’t want that.

    Timing matters too. Look at user behavior in your analytics. When do users usually open your app? Sending notifications at the right time can significantly increase open rates.

    One of my favorite moments is watching the analytics dashboard after sending a push notification, seeing active users spike second by second. It’s strangely mesmerizing.

    POV: The user receiving the notification

    I will click a notification if:

    • The wording is interesting and makes me curious
    • There’s a clear benefit, like a special reward or promotion

    That said, when it turns out to be clickbait, I feel disappointed, and that feeling sticks.

    I won’t click a notification if:

    • The message is too long and gets cut off
    • The app sends notifications too frequently (some apps do this every hour, which is annoying)
    • The wording feels stiff, cold, or overly robotic

    When that happens, I usually just clear all notifications… or worse, turn them off entirely.

    Final thought

    At the end of the day, push notifications are all about balance.

    Remind users that your app exists, but don’t overdo it. Make your words count. Keep them human. And always ask yourself: Would I want to receive this notification?

    If you get it right, you’ll see the numbers go up, and more importantly, users might actually look forward to hearing from you.

    Good luck, and happy notifying!

    —
    If you need a +1 on something you’re building, I’m in.