CommunisP is a peer-to-peer chat application designed with privacy and simplicity in mind. One of its standout features is 'Ping', which allows you to send push notifications to your contacts to alert them of new messages or simply to get their attention. This guide will walk you through the steps to subscribe to push notifications, enable the Ping feature, and understand how and when you can send and receive Pings.
What is the Ping Feature?
The Ping feature allows you to send a push notification to a contact, prompting them to open the app and engage in a conversation. It's especially useful when a contact is offline or hasn't responded in a while. Pings are non-intrusive and respect user privacy settings.
Prerequisites
- CommunisP Account: While the general chat is free and doesn't require an account, to use the Ping feature, you need to create an account with a username. No email or phone number is required.
- Supported Device: A device that supports Progressive Web Apps (PWA) and push notifications (most modern smartphones and browsers do).
- Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection.
Installing CommunisP as a Progressive Web App (PWA)
To enable push notifications and use the Ping feature, you need to install CommunisP as a PWA.
For Android Devices (Chrome Browser):
- Open CommunisP: Navigate to communisp.com in your Chrome browser.
- Add to Home Screen:
- Tap the Menu icon (three vertical dots) in the top-right corner.
- Select "Add to Home screen".
- Confirm by tapping "Add".
- Install App: The app will be added to your home screen and function like a native app.
For iOS Devices (Safari Browser):
- Open CommunisP: Navigate to communisp.com in your Safari browser.
- Add to Home Screen:
- Tap the Share icon (square with an upward arrow) at the bottom of the screen.
- Scroll down and select "Add to Home Screen".
- Tap "Add" in the top-right corner.
- Install App: The app will appear on your home screen.
For Desktop Browsers:
- Open CommunisP: Go to communisp.com using Chrome or Edge.
- Install the App:
- Chrome: Click the Install icon in the address bar (looks like a computer with an arrow).
- Edge: Click the Ellipsis (•••) icon > Apps > Install This Site as an App.
- Launch the App: The app will open in its own window.
Subscribing to Push Notifications
After installing CommunisP as a PWA, follow these steps to subscribe to push notifications:
- Log In: Open the CommunisP app and log in with your username.
- Access Settings:
- Tap the "Subscribe to Push Notifications" button located on the main screen.
- A prompt will appear requesting permission to send notifications.
- Grant Permission:
- When asked, allow CommunisP to send you notifications.
- You should see a confirmation message indicating that you have successfully subscribed.
- Verify Subscription Status:
- A status message like "Ping notifications are enabled on this device." will appear.
Understanding Contact Status Colors
CommunisP uses color indicators to represent the status of your contacts:
- Green: The contact is online and available.
- Red: The contact is offline.
Enabling Ping Notifications for Contacts
To send and receive Pings with a contact, both you and the contact need to have enabled push notifications and have each other added as contacts.
- Add Contacts:
- Navigate to the Contacts section.
- Add the username of the person you want to connect with.
- Enable Notifications for Specific Contacts:
- In your contact list, you'll see a checkbox or toggle next to each contact's name.
- Check the box to enable Ping notifications for that contact.
- This setting allows you to receive Pings from them.
Sending a Ping to a Contact
Once you've set up your contacts and enabled notifications, you can send a Ping:
- Select an Offline Contact:
- Offline contacts eligible to receive Pings will have a red indicator.
- Ensure the contact is someone you have added and who has enabled Pings.
- Open the Chat:
- Tap on the contact's name.
- Send a Ping:
- A prompt will appear stating "(Contact) is offline. Would you like to ping them?"
- Press "OK" button to send a Ping notification to the contact.
- Confirmation:
- You'll receive a confirmation that the Ping was sent.
Receiving Pings
When someone sends you a Ping:
- Notification Appearance:
- You'll receive a push notification on your device.
- The notification will display the sender's name and a brief message indicating they are trying to reach you.
- Responding to a Ping:
- Tap on the notification to open CommunisP.
- You can then reply to the contact in the chat.
Who Can You Send Pings To?
- Mutual Contacts: You can only send Pings to users who are in your contact list and have you in theirs.
- Push Notifications Enabled: Both you and the contact must have subscribed to push notifications.
- Notification Preferences:
- If a contact has disabled Pings from you, you won't be able to send them a Ping.
- Contacts can manage their notification preferences individually.
FAQs
1. Do I need to keep CommunisP open to receive Pings?
No, as long as you've installed CommunisP as a PWA and subscribed to push notifications, you'll receive Pings even if the app isn't open.
2. Can I disable Pings from certain contacts?
Yes, you can manage your notification preferences in the Contacts section by unchecking the box next to a contact's name.
3. Is my privacy maintained when using Pings?
Absolutely. Only minimal information (who pinged who, when) is exchanged to facilitate the Ping.
Conclusion
The Ping feature in CommunisP enhances your ability to stay connected by allowing you to send and receive push notifications with your contacts. By following this guide, you can easily set up and make the most of this feature while maintaining control over your privacy and notification preferences.
Enjoy seamless and private communication with CommunisP!