PUGPIG REPORTS | 2025

The art of the nudge: perfecting push in 2025

Our latest Pugpig report explores the power of push notifications in driving app engagement, retention, and user activity. It’s packed with data-driven insights and strategies specifically for publishers, and outlines best practices for creating high impact, personalised app messaging. The report draws on data from news media publishers using our platform and those using Airship, OneSignal, PushPushGo and Pushly.

Summary

Push notifications are a game-changing feature for apps, enabling publishers to connect with their audience in real time, drive higher engagement and build habit and loyalty. Publishers implementing push notifications see up to a 60% increase in active users within three months. These notifications, when optimised, lead to increased retention and app success by fostering user habits and delivering relevant, timely content.

Our report gives you the tools and insights you need to unlock the full potential of app messaging for your mobile audience, pairing the latest industry insights with compelling publisher case studies and actionable strategies you can implement right now.

Key insights from the report include:

  • Personalisation: Tailoring messages increases open rates by nearly 40%. By allowing users to choose the push notifications they receive, The Boston Globe increased open rates up to 3x.
  • Segmentation: Identifying user interests improves relevance and engagement
  • Retention strategies: Onboarding messages and multi-channel communication boost app usage and loyalty
  • Best practices: Optimal message length, timing, and frequency ensure notifications remain effective and non-intrusive.

By combining data-driven strategies, audience understanding, and the right tools, publishers can harness push notifications to engage users effectively and maximise app performance.

For an in-depth look at strategies, case studies, and actionable tips, download the full report and learn proven methods of boosting engagement and retention through push.

The art of the nudge: perfecting push in 2025