What is an opt in?

Opt in definition is an explicit, recorded yes to a clearly stated purpose. It requires an affirmative action (tap, click, signature), is freely given, specific, informed, unambiguous, and revocable, and is stored with evidence:

• who consented,
• what they agreed to,
• when,
• where,
• policy/version.

What is opt-in in the app industry?

In apps, opt in meaning is the user’s explicit permission — captured via OS prompts or in-app UI — to enable a defined data use or contact channel. Typical scopes include push notifications, location, camera/mic, personalized ads/tracking (e.g., ATT/IDFA), analytics SDKs, and marketing messages (email/SMS/in-app). Each opt-in should be purpose-bound, channel-specific, easy to change (OS settings or preference center), and logged for auditability.

What is a double opt-in?

A double opt-in is a two-step consent check. First, a user says “yes” (submits an email/phone or toggles a sign-up). Second, they confirm that yes via a verification action — usually clicking a link in an email or entering a code from an SMS.

You end up with proof of intent (who, when, how, which policy/version), fewer typos and bots, better deliverability, and clearer permission boundaries. Some markets or use cases strongly recommend — or require — it for marketing messages.

How does opt-in work?

You ship a new release. First-run, the user lands in onboarding. Before you ask for anything, you show value: “Get price-drop alerts for saved flights.” A short line, a single benefit, a tiny preview of what they’ll miss without consent.

Tap “Enable alerts.” You show an in-app screen first (plain language, no legalese). Then you trigger the OS prompt. iOS shows the ATT dialog; Android shows the relevant permission. The copy mirrors your promise. If they allow, you log consent: timestamp, surface, policy version, channel (push/email/SMS).

Preferences appear in Settings so they can change their mind.

For email, it’s similar. A one-field form in the wallet screen: “Email me weekly deals.” They submit; you send a confirm link (double opt-in if required). Clicked? Consent recorded. If they don’t confirm, no sends.

If they decline any prompt, you don’t nag. You wait for a moment of need — after they save a route or track a price — and ask again with context.

That’s opt-in done right: clear value, explicit choice, easy undo, clean records.

FAQs

What is opt-out?

The opposite. Users are included by default and must actively say “no.” Many activities now require opt-in instead.

Is opt-in the same as consent?

Opt-in is how consent is captured. Valid consent must be freely given, specific, informed, unambiguous, and easy to withdraw.

Do pre-checked boxes count?

Generally, no. Most modern standards require an explicit action by the user.

Do I need separate opt-ins for different purposes?

Yes. Keep marketing email, product updates, SMS, and other purposes separate so users can choose precisely.

How often should I reprompt?

When purpose changes, policies update, or after long inactivity — without nagging. Always offer a preference center.