Real-Time apps with AWS AppSync and GraphQL: How we improve user experience
In the era of immediacy, users expect instant responses. Whether receiving a message, viewing a dashboard, or confirming a transaction, information must be updated in real time. This challenge drives the adoption of reactive architectures and serverless services that enable more dynamic and seamless experiences.
At Bitlogic, we implement these technologies using AWS AppSync with GraphQL to build modern, scalable, and highly efficient applications, where real-time synchronization is key to delivering a superior user experience.
Real-Time data optimization with AWS AppSync
Today, any successful application must reflect data changes as soon as they are published through the GraphQL API (mutations/publish), avoiding page reloads and repeated queries. Everyday examples such as chat applications or collaborative editors highlight the value of instant updates.
Behind this fluidity, however, are architectures designed to handle thousands of concurrent updates with low latency.
Traditionally, this problem was addressed using the long polling pattern, where the client periodically queries the server to detect changes. While effective in its time, this approach generates significant backend load and inefficient resource usage, especially when thousands of users are connected simultaneously.
The formula: AWS AppSync + GraphQL + DynamoDB
To address this challenge, Bitlogic uses an architecture based on AWS AppSync, Amazon Web Services’ managed GraphQL service. AppSync enables the creation of secure and scalable APIs that not only handle queries and mutations, but also provide real-time updates through WebSocket-based subscriptions.
Combined with DynamoDB, a high-performance NoSQL database, this architecture achieves efficient frontend–backend integration, reducing real-time infrastructure complexity (without managing custom WebSockets). For external or asynchronous events, a publishing mechanism is added (e.g., a publish mutation or event-driven integration).
Thanks to this combination, it is possible to build lightweight, scalable serverless applications without worrying about server management. In addition, AppSync integrates natively with other AWS services such as Lambda, Cognito, and Aurora, making it easier to develop complete and secure solutions.
From periodic queries to Real-Time subscriptions
The conceptual shift is significant: instead of the client constantly asking whether something has changed (polling), AppSync automatically notifies clients when data changes.
The results include:
- Lower network traffic and bandwidth consumption
- Reduced infrastructure costs
- A more responsive and seamless user experience
AppSync manages the complexity of the real-time channel (WebSockets, scaling, fan-out), while client SDKs (such as Amplify) handle connection and reconnection management.
AWS AppSync use cases: getting the most out of it
One of the most relevant use cases developed by Bitlogic applies this approach in the financial sector. The solution enables real-time monitoring of digitization processes across multiple branches, displaying results immediately on a centralized dashboard.
Information flows continuously among hundreds of users, improving operational visibility, efficiency, and decision-making.
The real-time subscription pattern is not limited to the financial domain. There are many scenarios where AppSync can enhance the digital experience:
- Live chat or messaging systems
- KPI or metrics monitoring dashboards
- Automated user notifications
- IoT sensor monitoring
- Tracking asynchronous processes (SQS, Lambda, etc.)
In most scenarios, this approach reduces traffic and costs compared to polling, especially under high concurrency and low-latency requirements.
When to avoid AWS AppSync (and what to use instead)
Like any technology, AppSync is not ideal for every use case.
For example, when an application requires protocols other than GraphQL, demands full cloud-provider independence, or needs complete control over the infrastructure, alternative architectures may be more appropriate.
However, thanks to its integration with Lambda and other AWS services, AppSync provides enough flexibility to connect with external systems while maintaining a balance between agility and control.
A step toward the future of reactive apps
With AWS AppSync, Bitlogic demonstrates how serverless architectures and subscription patterns can transform digital experiences.
More than a technical improvement, this approach delivers real-time value: instantly updated data, reduced friction, and higher end-user satisfaction.
If you are interested in this project and need to implement something similar for your company or institution. Let’s talk — coffee is on us. ☕️
