diff --git a/AGENTS.md b/AGENTS.md
index d26f84b..cfbe603 100644
--- a/AGENTS.md
+++ b/AGENTS.md
@@ -563,9 +563,18 @@ session with **no other memory of this project**. So:
   `skatespots:notifications:reminders`; the hook cancels them all on unmount
   (opt-out / logout). New pref key `reminders` (default on). Pro-expiry reminder
   deliberately skipped — it would pull in the heavy `useSasquatchPro` query.
-  **Phase 2/3 (NOT built):** background runner (on-device polling, closed-app,
-  ~15 min floor) and a content-free FCM "doorbell" (timely, but a server learns
-  metadata). `useResolvedDmRelays` is exported for the envelope hook.
+  **❌ Phase 2 (background runner) is DEAD — don't attempt it
+  (verified 2026-09-29):** Capacitor's Background Runner supports `fetch` but
+  **NOT `WebSocket`** (v8 docs), and Nostr relays are WebSocket-only, so a
+  runner physically cannot query relays while backgrounded. On-device background
+  relay polling is not possible. Closed-app DMs/invites therefore need either
+  **(a)** a push gateway (FCM; a server learns *metadata* "this pubkey has
+  something" — content/sender stay hidden by NIP-17, timestamps are randomised)
+  or **(b)** a foreground service keeping a native WS alive (no server, but a
+  permanent notification + battery + custom native code). **Owner decision
+  (2026-09-29): HOLD at Phase 1 + 1b** — the zero-server design stands and
+  closed-app DMs/crew are a documented limitation, revisited only if it becomes
+  load-bearing. `useResolvedDmRelays` is exported for the envelope hook.
 - **Empty-map nudge (2026-09-28):** `MapPage` distinguishes the two empties — the
   existing "No spots match" card is for *filters* (`filteredSpots.length === 0 &&
   allLocations.length > 0`) and a new "No spots mapped yet — be the first" card