do push notifications only work via a manual process? Is there a way to get an update from a web service that triggers a push notification?

First please answer this in terms of a native device application which is publishes.

Second, please answer in terms of a web app for all mobile devices.

Thank you for your reply. I was unable to find the forum after my post (until the link with your reply came in). I have been able to fix my issue, thank you.

After following the tutorial for building a mobile rss app I have a problem that my service is not running. I have my own service set up, but based on all the information and mappings it should work the same. I could use some help making this service call work.