Ios mail push vs fetch

In iOS, there are two ways to retrieve email messages: Push and Fetch. Both methods have their own advantages and disadvantages.

Push

Push is a method where the email server sends new email messages to the device as soon as they are received. This is done by the email server pushing the messages to the device using a push notification service, such as Apple Push Notification Service (APNs).

Advantages:

  1. Real-time updates: Push notifications provide real-time updates, so you can receive new email messages as soon as they are received.
  2. Low battery consumption: Since the device only receives notifications when new messages are available, battery consumption is relatively low.

Disadvantages:

  1. Requires internet connection: Push notifications require a stable internet connection to function.
  2. Server-side processing: The email server needs to process and send push notifications, which can add latency and overhead.

Fetch

Fetch is a method where the device periodically checks the email server for new messages. This is done by the device sending a request to the email server to retrieve new messages.

Advantages:

  1. Offline support: Fetch allows devices to retrieve email messages even when they are offline or have a poor internet connection.
  2. Server-side processing: The email server can process and store messages before sending them to the device, reducing latency and overhead.

Disadvantages:

  1. Delayed updates: Fetch can introduce delays between when a new message is received and when it is retrieved by the device.
  2. Higher battery consumption: Fetch requires the device to periodically check the email server, which can increase battery consumption.

When to use each

  1. Use Push:
    • When real-time updates are critical (e.g., for business or enterprise email clients).
    • When the device is always connected to the internet.
  2. Use Fetch:
    • When offline support is required (e.g., for personal email clients).
    • When the device may not always have a stable internet connection.

In summary, Push notifications provide real-time updates and low battery consumption, but require a stable internet connection and server-side processing. Fetch, on the other hand, provides offline support and server-side processing, but can introduce delays and higher battery consumption. The choice between Push and Fetch depends on the specific requirements of your email client or application.