Help Needed with API Integration for Dynamic Data Updates

General
1

Hey guys… :innocent:

I am currently working on an app using AppMaster and I have hit a bit of a roadblock that I am hoping someone here might be able to help me with. I am trying to set up API integration to dynamically update data in my app but I am struggling with a few things and would appreciate some guidance.

I have connected my app to an external API that provides real-time data updates (it’s a sports stats API, if that matters). I want this data to automatically update a table in my app whenever the API data changes. I’ve read through the AppMaster documentation on APIs and data models, but I’m still having trouble getting the dynamic updates to work smoothly.

Here is the points that was I faced:

  • I noticed that AppMaster supports both polling and webhooks for API data retrieval. In my case, where data needs to be updated in near real-time (think scores and player stats), which approach would be more efficient? I was leaning towards using webhooks, but I’m not sure how well they integrate with the data models I’ve set up.

  • I am also confused about the best way to map the incoming API data to my existing data models. The API returns a pretty complex JSON, and I’m unsure how to handle nested objects or arrays. Should I create a matching nested structure in AppMaster, or is there a better way to flatten the data for easier processing?

  • I had love some advice on handling errors that occur during API calls or data updates. I’ve set up some basic error handling, but I’m not sure if I’m following best practices. How do you typically handle situations where the API is down, or the data format changes unexpectedly?

I also check this: https://community.appmaster.io/t/step-by-step-tutorial-on-how-to-make-a-basic-mobillooker But I have not found any solution. Could anyone guide me about this?

Thanks!

Respected community member! :blush:

2

Hi @nisha02,

If your external system supports pushing data via webhooks, that will be the best way to implement updates. Once data is changed in the external system, it should call an endpoint or webhook in your app (built in AppMaster).

Pulling can be used if there are no other options, but it’s usually less real-time, generates more load on the external system, and could lead to rate limiting.

Once you receive data in your backend, you can use WSS to push data from the server to your web or mobile application. Currently, there is no WSS support for external systems (between AppMaster-built apps and external systems), but this feature has been implemented and will be released in September. It could become your best real-time option after webhooks and pulling once released.

There are two ways to parse data: map it to existing models (or virtual models) or parse it manually. To handle complex data, we typically use the “Extract from JSON” block, utilizing JQ/xpath notation under the hood. I personally prefer to build a separate BP that parses data and maps it to models. It’s bulky, but it works like a charm. @Basil_K can provide a couple of examples.

To handle errors, use the built-in Success and Error variables in most blocks. Most errors can be handled using these variables. There is a subset of older blocks that don’t have Success/Error handlers, and if you encounter them, ping our team, and we’ll upgrade them.