Microsoft has now cleared rumours of limitations in Windows Phone 7 and released an official reply about the restrictions on push notification applications and whether the limits applied either within the live tiles or toast.
WPF Technical Evangelist Jaime Rodriguez has posted an official answer to the rumours stating that “Yes, the limit is fifteen third party applications can be concurrently subscribed to receive push notifications (whether that is a live tile or toast).”
Understanding the Push Notification Limit
Microsoft also confirmed that Outlook and People Hub do not count toward the 15 app limit and the limit does not refer to installed apps, only apps that have push notifications or Live Tiles enabled and are subscribed to notification channels. This distinction is crucial for users who rely heavily on notifications for productivity and social connectivity. By excluding core applications like Outlook and People Hub, Microsoft ensures that essential communication tools remain unaffected by the limit.
The rationale behind this limit is multifaceted. Microsoft cites general user experience, battery life, and bandwidth conservation as primary reasons. Push notifications, while incredibly useful, can be resource-intensive. Each notification requires a small amount of data and processing power, which can add up quickly, especially if numerous apps are sending frequent updates. By capping the number of apps that can use push notifications, Microsoft aims to strike a balance between functionality and performance.
Impact on Power Users and Future Adjustments
Microsoft acknowledges that some power users might reach the 15 app limit. These users, who often have a high number of apps installed and rely on real-time updates, may find the restriction somewhat limiting. However, Microsoft believes that the majority of users will not be affected by this cap. For most users, 15 apps providing push notifications should be more than sufficient to cover their needs without compromising device performance.
Interestingly, Microsoft has also indicated that the limit is not set in stone. This flexibility suggests that the company is open to revisiting and potentially adjusting the cap based on user feedback and technological advancements. As mobile technology evolves, so too might the capabilities of Windows Phone 7, allowing for more efficient handling of push notifications and possibly a higher limit in the future.
In addition to the technical reasons, there are also user experience considerations. Too many notifications can overwhelm users, leading to notification fatigue. By limiting the number of apps that can send push notifications, Microsoft helps users manage their digital lives more effectively, ensuring that only the most important updates get through.
Moreover, this limit encourages developers to be more selective and efficient with their use of push notifications. Instead of bombarding users with constant updates, developers might focus on delivering more meaningful and timely notifications, enhancing the overall user experience.
In conclusion, while the 15 app limit on push notifications in Windows Phone 7 might seem restrictive at first glance, it is a well-considered decision aimed at balancing performance, battery life, and user experience. By excluding core apps and remaining open to future adjustments, Microsoft demonstrates a commitment to both innovation and user satisfaction.
Via BGR
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