During the WWDC Keynote, Apple explained that 3rd party applications wouldn’t be allowed to run as a process in the background. Their solution to this problem was – Push Notifications. We were told that before the end of September, we’d be enjoying the benefits of these Push Notifications, Text Notifications and Alert Sounds.
Well we’re now into October and no sign of them. Reportedly in the last firmware released to developers, Push Notifications were removed.
Whilst software delays are nothing new in the industry, Apple makes a point (and a reputation) of delivering what they say, when they say. Unfortunately Push Notifications has been another one of the recent bungles from Apple, adding to the list of problematic iPhone 3G firmware and the Mobile Me fiasco.
Apple should clearly do a better job of communicating problems to their audience, adjusting the expectations of a very loyal fan-base, to minimise consumer disappointment when services don’t arrive on time.
