A New Sync Library for iOS and Android
Dropbox has released the Sync API for iOS and Android, a library designed to offload the heavy lifting of file synchronization from mobile developers. The API handles caching, syncing, and offline behavior internally, presenting a straightforward local-file interface to your application.
Dropbox-Backed Local Storage
With the Sync API, files that appear to reside in your app's local file system are actually backed by Dropbox storage. The library manages background sync, upload and download retries, and change detection, relieving you from implementing these infrastructure concerns. Your app can list folder contents and create, move, and delete files with immediate local results, while the API reconciles the state with Dropbox asynchronously.
Offline-First Development
Because the Sync API maintains a local cache, your app remains functional without an internet connection. When connectivity is restored, the API automatically syncs pending changes to Dropbox.
Getting Started
Several resources are available for developers who want to begin using the Sync API:
- Example apps: Both the Android and iOS SDKs include a simple note-taking application that demonstrates file creation and reading.
- Tutorial: Step-by-step guides walk through setting up a new project for either Android or iOS.
- API documentation: Detailed reference material covers the full capabilities of the Sync API for each platform.
Early adopters have reported significant time savings. Chris Cox, developer of Squarespace Note, said the Sync API cut his Dropbox code in half. Developer feedback from the beta period also helped guide the final API design. Dropbox is inviting further input from the development community as the API evolves.
