In-app messaging

In-app messaging refers to visual communication formats that appear directly inside a mobile application during a user’s session. These messages help teams deliver updates, offers, or contextual tips without relying on external channels such as push notifications or email.

At InAppStory, in-app messages include several visual formats — bottom sheets, fullscreens, and pop-ups — designed to appear at relevant moments during the user’s journey, ensuring seamless engagement without interrupting the flow.

Purpose

The main purpose of in-app messaging is to engage users without disrupting their app experience. Unlike push notifications that can feel intrusive, in-app messages appear directly within the interface and allow for contextual communication, offering helpful information, tips, or special offers. These messages can also encourage users to complete unfinished actions, increase app retention, and drive conversions.

Formats

InAppStory supports multiple types of in-app messages, each tailored for specific use cases:

• Fullscreen messages: full-screen banners or immersive content used for high-priority announcements, product launches, or promotional campaigns.
• Bottom sheets: these messages slide up from the bottom of the screen and are ideal for more subtle notifications, quick reminders, or contextual tips without interrupting the user’s flow.
• Pop-ups: small overlay messages that appear in the center of the screen to deliver alerts, confirmations, or immediate calls to action.

Each format allows the addition of text, images, and interactive elements, providing flexibility in how information is delivered.

Triggers and Targeting

There are two main ways to invoke in-app messages.

1. Calling a message by id
2. Calling a message by event

Events serve as “labels” to determine the right set of messages to show to the user. Also, in-app messages use the same targeting mechanism as stories - tags and segments.

Best Practices

1. Ensure messages are non-intrusive and add value to the user experience. Avoid interrupting the flow unless it’s essential (e.g. important offers, critical updates).
2. Match the message format to the content: use fullscreen for major announcements, pop-ups for short alerts, and bottom sheets for tips or contextual information.
3. Target specific segments of users based on their behavior to make messages more relevant.
4. Regularly test message effectiveness by analyzing user response rates (open, read, click) and adjusting frequency to avoid overwhelming users.
5. Combine in-app messages with other engagement tools like stories or gamification to create a more dynamic and interactive experience.