1) Parse provides a backend as a service that allows developers to easily add features like push notifications, user authentication, file storage, and a database to mobile apps.
2) It offers an easy to use SDK for iOS and Android apps to connect to the Parse backend and manage data through a REST API or local SDK methods.
3) Parse's free tier supports basic usage, while paid plans provide more storage, requests, and features like scheduling and analytics for $199/month or less depending on usage.