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AI wrote this blog, surprising intro to Convex Backend

Let's discuss how good this was

I'm just letting ai write this because I'm bored, don't come after me in comments hahaha

Convex.js: The Backend Buddy You Didn't Know You Needed

In the bustling realm of web development, managing backends can often feel like juggling flaming torches—exciting but perilous. Enter Convex.js, your new best friend that makes backend management as smooth as butter on a hot pancake.

1. Reactive Data Queries: Your App's Pulse

Imagine your app's data is like a live concert, and you want every user to experience the same beat simultaneously. Convex.js offers reactive data queries that ensure all clients are grooving to the same tune in real-time.

Why It's Cool:

  • Automatic Updates: When your data changes, all subscribed clients get the memo instantly. No need for manual refreshes or complex polling mechanisms.

Example:

Let's say you're building a live chat application. You want all users to see new messages as they come in. Here's how you can set that up:

import { ConvexClient } from "convex/browser";
import { api } from "../convex/_generated/api";

const client = new ConvexClient(process.env.CONVEX_URL);

// Subscribe to the 'listAll' query in the 'messages' module
client.onUpdate(api.messages.listAll, {}, (messages) => {
  console.log("New messages:", messages.map((msg) => msg.body));
});
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In this snippet, onUpdate subscribes to the listAll query in the messages module. Whenever there's a new message, it logs the updated list to the console. It's like having a personal assistant who whispers, "Hey, there's something new!" every time a message arrives.

2. Serverless Functions: Code Without the Load

Writing backend logic often means dealing with servers, deployments, and a sprinkle of headaches. Convex.js introduces serverless functions, allowing you to write your backend code without worrying about the underlying infrastructure.

Why It's Cool:

  • Simplified Development: Write your functions, and Convex.js handles the rest—scaling, execution, and all the nitty-gritty details.

Example:

Suppose you want to add a new message to your chat application. Here's how you can define a mutation function:

// convex/functions.js

import { mutation } from "convex/server";

export const sendMessage = mutation(async ({ db }, { body, userId }) => {
  const message = {
    body,
    userId,
    createdAt: new Date(),
  };
  await db.insert("messages", message);
});
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And to call this mutation from your client:

import { useMutation } from "convex/react";

function ChatInput() {
  const sendMessage = useMutation("sendMessage");

  const handleSubmit = async (event) => {
    event.preventDefault();
    const body = event.target.elements.message.value;
    await sendMessage({ body, userId: "user123" });
    event.target.reset();
  };

  return (
    <form onSubmit={handleSubmit}>
      <input name="message" type="text" placeholder="Type your message..." />
      <button type="submit">Send</button>
    </form>
  );
}
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Here, sendMessage is a mutation that adds a new message to the messages table. The ChatInput component uses this mutation to send messages when the form is submitted. It's like sending a letter without worrying about the postal service logistics.

3. Built-In Authentication: Security Made Simple

Security can be a daunting aspect of app development, but Convex.js has your back with built-in authentication. Whether you're dealing with email/password sign-ups or third-party OAuth providers, Convex.js makes user authentication straightforward and secure.

Why It's Cool:

  • Hassle-Free User Management: Implementing authentication becomes a breeze, allowing you to focus on building features rather than security protocols.

Example:

Integrating Auth0 for user authentication:

import { Auth0Provider } from "@auth0/auth0-react";
import { ConvexProviderWithAuth0 } from "convex/react-auth0";
import { ConvexReactClient } from "convex/react";

const convex = new ConvexReactClient(process.env.CONVEX_URL);

function App({ Component, pageProps }) {
  return (
    <Auth0Provider
      domain={process.env.AUTH0_DOMAIN}
      clientId={process.env.AUTH0_CLIENT_ID}
      redirectUri={window.location.origin}
    >
      <ConvexProviderWithAuth0 client={convex}>
        <Component {...pageProps} />
      </ConvexProviderWithAuth0>
    </Auth0Provider>
  );
}

export default App;
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In this setup, Auth0Provider manages the authentication flow, and ConvexProviderWithAuth0 bridges Auth0 with Convex.js, ensuring that your users are authenticated seamlessly. It's like having a bouncer who knows all your VIPs by name.

4. TypeScript Support: Type Safety for the Win

For those who appreciate the structure and safety of TypeScript, Convex.js offers robust support, allowing you to write type-safe code that catches errors before they sneak into production.

Why It's Cool:

  • Enhanced Developer Experience: With TypeScript, you get autocompletion, type checking, and a more predictable codebase.

Example:

Defining a function with TypeScript:

// convex/functions.ts

import { mutation } from "convex/server";
import { Id } from "convex/values";

export const sendMessage = mutation(
  async ({ db }, { body, userId }: { body: string; userId: Id }) => {
    const message = {
      body,
      userId,
      createdAt: new Date(),
    };
    await db.insert("messages", message);
  }
);
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Here, we've defined the sendMessage mutation with explicit types for body and userId. This ensures that anyone using this function will know exactly what types of arguments are expected, reducing the chances of runtime errors. It's like having a GPS that ensures you never take a wrong turn in your code.

5. Open-Source Client Libraries: Freedom to Customize

Convex.js provides open-source client libraries, giving you the flexibility to dive into the code, understand its workings, and even tailor it to your specific needs.

Why It's Cool:

  • Transparency and Control: Access to the source code means you can customize functionalities or contribute to the project, fostering a collaborative development environment.

Example:

Exploring the Convex.js GitHub repository:

# Clone the repository
git clone https://github.com/get-convex/convex-js.git

# Navigate to the project directory
cd convex-js

# Install dependencies
npm install

# Explore the codebase
code .
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By cloning the repository, you can explore the inner workings of Convex.js, understand its architecture, and even propose changes or enhancements. It's like having the blueprints to a high-tech gadget, allowing you to tweak and tinker to your heart's content.


Wrapping Up

Convex.js is like the Swiss


Eagle here, I don't know why he used convex hull algorithm as reference, how accurate even is this.

And this was the cover art that was scraped hahaha

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Imagine using ai to check how good is a blog written by ai damn

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