I’m building a real-time chat feature in a Next.js application using Directus REST APIs (without the Directus SDK). I need guidance on:
Realtime Updates:
How can I implement realtime messaging using Directus REST API (e.g., WebSockets, SSE, or polling)?
Are there any built-in realtime features in Directus, or do I need an external solution (e.g., Pusher, Socket.IO )?
Documentation/Examples:
Where can I find official docs or examples for realtime data in Directus without the SDK?
Are there REST API endpoints for subscribing to changes (e.g., messages collection updates)?
Workarounds:
If Directus doesn’t natively support REST-based realtime, what’s the best approach?
Should I use Webhooks + a WebSocket service, or is there a simpler way?
Directus comes with WebSockets
---
contributors: Kevin Lewis
description: "Learn how to get started with Directus' WebSockets interface."
---
# Getting Started With WebSockets
You can connect to a Directus project using a WebSocket interface and get updates on data held in a collection in
real-time.
This guide will show you how to get started with Directus' WebSockets interface and JavaScript. WebSockets are
language-agnostic, so you can apply the same set of steps in your stack of choice.
## Before You Begin
You will need a Directus project. If you don’t already have one, the easiest way to get started is with our
[managed Directus Cloud service](https://directus.cloud). You can also self-host Directus, ensuring the
`WEBSOCKETS_ENABLED` environment variable is set to `true`.
Create a new collection called `messages`, with a `date_created` field enabled in the _Optional Fields_ pane on
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Welcome to the community
It looks like @brainslug beat me to the punch but…
To answer your questions,
How can I implement realtime messaging using Directus REST API (e.g., WebSockets, SSE, or polling)?
Are there any built-in realtime features in Directus, or do I need an external solution (e.g., Pusher, Socket.IO )?
Realtime support is built right into Directus core.
Documentation/Examples:
Here’s some helpful links on working with Directus Realtime. You don’t have to work with the Directus SDK - it’s just a convenient wrapper for the websocket connection.
Workarounds:
No workarounds needed
