A feature that automatically pushes data updates to connected users without them refreshing the page.
Realtime is a feature where the Server pushes data changes to clients instantly. When user A updates a post, user B's page updates automatically without refreshing. This creates collaborative, live experiences.
Supabase Realtime uses WebSockets to maintain open connections between client and Backend. The server broadcasts Database changes—when data updates, all listening clients receive the new data. This is different from polling (repeatedly asking for updates), which is inefficient. In React, you subscribe to realtime updates using useEffect.
Realtime is powerful for collaborative apps, notifications, and live feeds. It creates snappy, responsive experiences where changes appear instantly across all users.
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