What is Firebase?
Firebase is a product by Google that provides a multitude of cloud-based services, making it easier for developers to build high-quality mobile and web applications. It offers an ecosystem of tools and services, highlighting functionalities such as real-time databases, user authentication, cloud storage, analytics, in-app messaging, and machine learning. Firebase is designed to work across Android, iOS, and the web, providing a complete suite of features to develop applications without the need to manage servers or write backend code.
How does Firebase work?
Firebase, in essence, offers a Backend-as-a-Service (BaaS) that liberates developers from the complexities of server-side development, focusing on crafting the user experience instead. For example, its real-time database is a cloud-hosted NoSQL database that lets you store and sync data between your users in real time. It enables developers to build collaborative applications that remain responsive even when the network is not entirely reliable.
Another primary service, Firebase Authentication, supports a multitude of sign-in methods, including email/password, third-party providers such as Google and Facebook, and even phone number sign-in. This helps streamline the sign-in process and increase user engagement.
Use Cases
Firebase has a diverse set of use cases depending on the specific needs of a project. For businesses looking to understand user behavior and improve app engagement, Firebase Analytics provides insights and even integrates with BigQuery for advanced querying. Real-time games or chat applications can benefit from Firebase Real-time Database or Firestore to sync states across multiple clients. Cloud storage services offer a solution for user-generated content such as images and videos. Firebase Auth and Cloud Messaging are valuable for applications needing secure user authentication and targeted communication.
Related Material
Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM): Learn about Google’s FCM, which implements push messaging used on (not limited to) Android devices.
Send Firebase Push Notifications to Android: Walkthrough sending Firebase push notifications to your Android device using FCM.
Push Notifications: Read our docs about Push notifications, which allow you to easily integrate with third-party services, including FCM and APNS (Apple Push Notification Service).
