Well we began this one "mobile first" so we haven't actually solved this one yet. But... the activation message contains a link to a web based landing page - from there we currently launch the app but depending on the client, we could also launch a webpage. Our current thinking is to give you a "single use" session - once the session expires, you need to go back to the activation message. Not optimal but we want our customers to focus on the apps.
The solution you have in mind sounds terribly inconvenient, but I can understand wanting to keep the focus on the app.
What would this mean for accessing your service with and iPad or a tablet? I really feel like a traditional log-in system might be better in this case..
For the iPad it's no problem - we have a universal app but you're right - it's not a pretty approach and we have quite a few customers asking. Mostly it's the "desktop bound" ones that want it e.g. the receptionist at the dentist.
