Abstract: Techniques and tools for flexible authentication and authorization of services on a push framework. For example, a push notification framework allows services (social networking web services, etc.) to use either an authenticated access mode or an unauthenticated access mode, in order to push information to client devices (e.g., mobile devices). In the authenticated mode, the push framework requires registration of the service with the push framework before allowing the service to push notifications to client devices. Different authenticated modes are provided for third-party and first-party services. In the unauthenticated mode, registration is not required, but notifications are throttled, thereby limiting risk of abuse by unauthenticated services. This allows flexibility for services that use the push framework.

Abstract: Techniques and tools for flexible authentication and authorization of services on a push framework. For example, a push notification framework allows services (social networking web services, etc.) to use either an authenticated access mode or an unauthenticated access mode, in order to push information to client devices (e.g., mobile devices). In the authenticated mode, the push framework requires registration of the service with the push framework before allowing the service to push notifications to client devices. Different authenticated modes are provided for third-party and first-party services. In the unauthenticated mode, registration is not required, but notifications are throttled, thereby limiting risk of abuse by unauthenticated services. This allows flexibility for services that use the push framework.

Abstract: Web feed presence techniques are described herein. In an implementation, a method includes obtaining a web feed describing content of the user and presence data of the user. The web feed is output with the presence data concurrently.

Abstract: Instant messaging with audio connection formation is described. In an implementation, a method includes forming a communication to authenticate a client with a proxy during an instant messaging session and forming an invitation by the client for communication to the proxy that identifies another client, with which, to communicate via an audio connection. An acceptance is received from the other client via the proxy to form the audio connection.