Does iPhone API allow to application to capture system events, like new message, new email, new push, etc.?

My app needs to activate, or at least be able to something on the system event, like new message, or new email/etc. Is it possible? If not -- any possible workarounds?

From stackoverflow

• I don't believe you can do that. Option 1 - register a custom URL scheme and then e-mail a link. The iPhone will start your app with the link when the user clicks on it.

  Option 2 - Use the Apple Push Notification Service.