May 2016 Summaries

Firebase Cloud Messaging is a free cross-platform service for reliably sending notifications and data messages to Android, iOS, and web applications. It supports delivery to individual devices, device groups, or subscription-based topics, enabling uses such as data synchronization alerts, promotional offers, and user re-engagement. Messages can include payloads of up to 4 KB, and devices can also send messages upstream to central servers or other devices. The service succeeds Google Cloud Messaging and provides migration information, sample applications, and platform-specific walkthroughs for Android, iOS, and web development.

Firebase Analytics is a free, unlimited mobile app analytics service designed to help developers understand user behavior, measure app performance, and improve growth efforts. It automatically records key events such as first opens and in-app purchases, while supporting up to 500 custom event types with parameters, conversion tracking, funnels, demographic data, and app-specific user properties. The platform integrates with BigQuery for raw-data analysis and connects user activity to advertising sources, including Google AdWords and more than 20 ad networks, enabling marketers to assess campaign ROI and optimize bids based on in-app conversions. Its Audiences feature lets developers segment users by behavior and attributes, then use those segments with Firebase tools such as Remote Config and Notifications to personalize app experiences, target messages, and re-engage users through advertising campaigns.

Firebase announced a major expansion from a backend-as-a-service offering into a unified app development platform for Android, iOS, and the mobile web, following growth from 110,000 to more than 450,000 developers after joining Google. The platform adds Firebase Analytics, a free unlimited user- and event-focused product that connects app activity, advertising attribution, and reusable audience segments across Firebase services. New development tools include Firebase Cloud Messaging, Storage, and Remote Config, alongside updates to Authentication, Hosting, and Realtime Database; quality tools include Crash Reporting and Firebase Test Lab for Android. Firebase also introduces growth capabilities such as Notifications, Dynamic Links, Invites, App Indexing, and AdWords integration, while integrating AdMob for monetization. A redesigned console, consolidated SDK and documentation experience, Google Cloud project compatibility, Google Play linking, a beta C++ SDK, and revised pricing plans aim to simplify development and provide paths from free usage to scalable paid services.