About InstantDB
InstantDB is a backend for web apps that keeps data in sync between the server and the screen. It is designed to be set up and changed from the command line, including by AI coding tools.
What it does
InstantDB gives a frontend app a database that updates live as data changes. Apps read data with a query and write it with a transaction, which keeps the code short. The service also covers user login, permissions, file storage and presence, so a small team does not need to build those parts from scratch.
Key features
- Live queries that update the interface when data changes
- Simple transactions for writing data from the client
- Login, permissions and file storage in one place
- Command line push of schema and permission files
- End-to-end type safety with TypeScript
Who it's for
Developers building chat, collaboration or other apps with live data. It also suits solo builders and small teams who use AI coding agents for much of their work.
Pricing and good to know
The code is open source under the Apache-2.0 license and is hosted on GitHub. The company has announced that Instant is sunsetting, with services continuing until August 31st, 2027, so check the current status before you build a long-term project on it.
Highlights
- Live queries that update the screen when data changes
- Writes sent from the client with a transaction call
- Login, permissions and file storage in one service
- Schema and permission files pushed from the terminal
- End-to-end type safety with TypeScript
