page.title=Use Rich Notifications to Keep Users Informed page.metaDescription=Use Android's notifications to keep users in touch with your content and services — even when the app is not in use. page.tags="" page.image=/design/media/notifications_pattern_anatomy.png @jd:body

The notification system allows your app to keep the user informed about events, such as new messages, upcoming calendar appointments, shared photos, and much more. They are a fundamental feature of Android that consumers check frequently to receive important notifications and status updates. Notifications are like a news channel that alerts the user to events as they happen and maintains a list of updates since last review.

In addition to status updates from friends and family, notifications can also be used to help gamers know when a time-based action is completed or another player took their turn.

Some game developers use notifications to alert users when a new limited time character can be won or a discount on an in-app purchase is available.

But Use Them Sparingly

Frequent notifications and spam notifications can turn users off, thereby risking your ratings and user base. Also sure to check our policies to ensure you’re treating your user respectfully.

Tip: Use notifications sparingly — be sure any information presented is useful. Give users the option to turn notifications off.