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What is App Secondary Launch?

Published in App Launch Type 2 mins read

An app secondary launch occurs when an application is opened or activated by another application.

Understanding Secondary Launch

Based on the provided definition, a secondary launch is characterized by one app initiating the opening or running of another app. This contrasts with a primary launch, which is typically when a user opens an app directly from the home screen, app drawer, or a shortcut.

The key characteristic of a secondary launch is the inter-app communication or interaction that triggers the target application to start or come to the foreground.

How it Works

  • An app (the source app) performs an action or presents content that includes a link or intent specifically designed to be handled by another app (the target app).
  • When the user interacts with this link or content in the source app, the operating system directs the action to the appropriate target app, causing it to launch or activate.

Example from Reference

The reference provides a clear example:

  • Scenario: "Spotify link sent using Facebook"
  • Action: The user clicks on a Spotify link within the Facebook app.
  • Result: The Spotify app opens.

In this scenario:

  • Facebook is the source app.
  • The Spotify link is the trigger.
  • Spotify is the target app that undergoes the secondary launch.

This demonstrates how sharing content (like a music link) in one app can seamlessly transition the user to the relevant content within a different, dedicated app.

Related Concepts (from Reference)

The reference also mentions "Run in background":

  • Run in background: This refers to an app continuing to operate even when the user is not actively viewing it or the screen is off. This is distinct from secondary launch, although a secondary launch might bring a background app to the foreground.

In summary, app secondary launch is a fundamental aspect of mobile operating systems and modern application interaction, allowing apps to work together and provide a more integrated user experience.

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