Direct Push email refers to a communication method where new email messages are instantly delivered to your device the moment they arrive on the mail server. Unlike traditional "pull" methods where your device periodically checks for new mail, Direct Push establishes an always-on connection, allowing the server to "push" new content to you without delay.
This technology ensures immediate notification and access to your latest emails, crucial for timely communication and productivity.
The Technology Behind Direct Push
Originally, "Direct Push" was specifically Microsoft's proprietary technology developed for instant email reception. It was primarily used on Windows Mobile 5.0, 6.0, and 6.1 enabled devices. This system allowed these mobile devices to receive emails instantly from various mail servers, including:
- Microsoft Exchange Servers: The primary intended server for corporate environments.
- Kerio Connect: A popular mail and collaboration server.
- Zarafa: An open-source groupware solution.
The core principle involves maintaining an active, persistent connection between the device and the mail server. When a new email arrives on the server, it immediately pushes that information down to the connected mobile device, triggering a notification and downloading the content.
Key Benefits of Direct Push Email
The push mechanism offers significant advantages over older email synchronization methods:
- Instant Delivery: Emails arrive on your device the moment they hit your inbox, ensuring you're always up-to-date.
- Enhanced Efficiency: Eliminates the need for manual refreshing or scheduled checks, saving battery life and data by only transmitting data when new mail is available.
- Real-Time Communication: Facilitates immediate responses and streamlines workflows, particularly in professional settings where timely communication is critical.
- Convenience: Provides a seamless email experience, making mobile email as responsive as desktop clients.
Direct Push vs. Other Email Synchronization Methods
Understanding the "push" mechanism is easier when compared to "pull" or "poll" methods:
| Feature | Direct Push Email (e.g., Exchange ActiveSync) | Pull/Poll Email (e.g., POP3/IMAP with interval checks) |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery | Instantaneous; server initiates delivery when new mail arrives. | Delayed; device periodically checks (polls) the server for new mail. |
| Connection | Persistent, always-on connection with the server. | Intermittent; connects only when checking for mail or sending. |
| Battery Life | Generally efficient; only uses power when new data arrives or connection maintained. | Can be less efficient if polling frequently, as it constantly wakes up to check. |
| Data Usage | Optimized; data transferred only when new mail or changes occur. | Can be less optimized if frequently polling empty inboxes. |
| Responsiveness | High; immediate notifications and access. | Lower; depends on the polling interval (e.g., every 5, 15, or 30 minutes). |
For more general information on the underlying concept, you can explore Push Technology.
Evolution and Modern Equivalents
While "Direct Push" specifically referred to Microsoft's technology for Windows Mobile, the underlying concept of pushing email instantly has become the standard for modern mobile email. Technologies like Exchange ActiveSync (EAS), which evolved from the original Direct Push concepts, now power instantaneous email delivery on virtually all major mobile platforms, including iOS and Android devices, connecting to various mail servers like Microsoft Exchange, Outlook.com, Gmail (via Exchange compatibility), and many others.
Today, when you receive instant emails on your smartphone, you are benefiting from the continued evolution and widespread adoption of the "push" methodology pioneered by systems like Direct Push.
