Currently, Stories have become a staple feature for mobile social networks, providing a dynamic and engaging way for users to share and consume content. React Native developers looking to incorporate this popular feature into their applications can leverage the power of the Social+ SDK. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of implementing stories in your React Native application using TypeScript and the Social+ SDK.
Pre-requisites
Before we begin, ensure you have the following requirements:
- Basic knowledge of TypeScript and React Native.
- A React Native project set up and ready to go.
- The Social+ SDK installed in your project.
- An Social+ Portal account.
- An Social+ Console Account.
Note: If you haven’t already registered for an Social+ account, we recommend following our comprehensive step-by-step guide in the Social+ Portal to create your new network.
Step 1: Understanding the Story Creation Process
The Social+ provides developers with a suite of functions to create stories. These stories can be of two types: Image and Video. An Image story allows the use of an image file of up to 1GB, while a Video story accommodates video files up to 2GB with a maximum duration of 90 seconds.
Each story creation offers optional StoryItems. The first supported item type, HyperLink, enables the inclusion of a URL and an alias, augmenting the story with additional content for user interaction.
Step 2: Setting Up the Story Repository
To initiate story creation, the first step involves selecting the target type. Currently, the supported targetType is ‘community,’ necessitating the specification of a communityId for story creation within a specific community.
Step 3: Creating an Image Story
The SDK provides the ‘createImageStory()’ function, allowing users to create a story with an image on the specified target. This function requires three parameters: targetType, targetId, and imageFile.
Here’s a TypeScript example of how to use this function:
Step 4: Creating a Video Story
The SDK also provides the ‘createVideoStory()’ function, allowing users to create a story with a video on the specified target. This function requires three parameters: targetType, targetId, and videoFile.
Here’s a TypeScript example of how to use this function:
Step 5: Handling Errors
The Social+ SDK utilizes optimistic story creation behavior, resulting in three possible sync states: ‘SYNCING,’ ‘SYNCED,’ and ‘FAILED.’ It’s crucial to handle these states correctly to ensure a smooth user experience.
Final Thoughts
Implementing stories in your React Native application using TypeScript and the Social+ SDK can significantly enhance your app’s user experience. While the process may seem complex at first, the Social+ SDK simplifies it, enabling you to add this feature quickly and efficiently. Remember, the key to successful implementation is understanding the SDK’s functions and handling errors effectively. With the Social+ SDK, you’re not just coding, you’re creating experiences. Feel free to give it a try!