Rx stands for Reactive Extensions which is a collection of tools that helps programmers to write a code in the reactive programming pattern. With this, we can write concise and easy to read code, simplify architecture like MVVM (Model–View–ViewModel), and facilitate complex issues as managing errors across different threads and infrastructure.The world of RxSwift is vast. You need to understand the reactive way of thinking and shift your programming mindset to enter in its universe. From core concepts to multiple approaches to programming, reactive programming demands proper learning in every field. So let’s get started with some basics of RxSwift to streamline your mobile app development process
1. Observable Pattern
Observable sequences are all about subscribing to the alternations of an object. In the case of Rx, it is crucial to remember that the observable sequence’s subject is called observable while the observer refers to a subscriber. Strings, dictionaries, and arrays require to be turned into observable sequences in RxSwift. A programmer can build an observable pattern of any object that adapts the sequence protocol from the library.
2. Types of Subjects
Subjects are observables that allow adding new items in a dynamic way. It helps to attain an observable sequence without a fixed amount of items. There are three kinds of subjects in RxSwift, including PublishSubject, BehaviorSubject, and ReplaySubject.
The PublishSubject would not store any previous emit. That means subscribers will get all the fresh emits when they subscribe. The BehaviorSubject will remind the recent emitted item. Lastly, the ReplaySubject is quite similar to BehaviorSubject but it allows you to specify the recent emits and with this, you can define the required previous items that you want to release for new subscribers.
3. Essential Operators
RxSwift carries different set of operators that can help to save your time while filtering, transforming and combining items emitted by observables.
- Filter: You can use a filter operator to state a condition that requires to passed and fulfilled so that the next event will be released for its subscribers.
- Transform: It serves the purpose of creating data approaching from observables before it reaches the subscribers. Its three operators include map(),flatMap(), and flatMapLatest().
- Combine: Combining the patterns is a common task in RxSwift. It gives plenty of options for integrating your observable sequences together. The five combining operators involve merge(), concat(), combineLatest(), zip(), and amb().
4. Marble Diagram
A marble diagram gives an illustration of the transformation of the observable sequence. It involves the input stream, the output stream, and the transformation function. There are various open-source projects available for Android as well as iOS that allow you to engage with these diagrams on your mobile devices.
There is a long roadmap to comprehend observables and how to create, interact and transform them. The various important concepts of RxSwift such as observables, subjects, and transformation consist of a basic toolkit that can get your job done very easily. You need to master all concepts before you navigate it for your iOS app development project or across other platforms.
Now as you have got some basics of RxSwift, it’s time to start experimenting and use it in your next mobile applications.
