What is AWS AppSync?
AWS AppSync is a fully managed GraphQL service that simplifies API development for web and mobile applications. The service provides real-time updates via WebSocket subscriptions and automatic offline synchronization for mobile apps.
AppSync connects various data sources like DynamoDB, Aurora, and Lambda in a unified GraphQL API.
Core Features
- GraphQL APIs: Schema-based API development with queries, mutations, and subscriptions
- Real-time Updates: WebSocket-based subscriptions for live data
- Offline Support: DataStore automatically synchronizes data between client and cloud
- Multiple Data Sources: DynamoDB, Aurora, OpenSearch, Lambda, and HTTP endpoints
- Caching: Server-side caching for faster response times
Typical Use Cases
Mobile Apps with Offline Functionality: AppSync DataStore stores data locally and synchronizes when connected. Ideal for apps that need to work without network.
Real-time Dashboards: Subscriptions automatically push updates to all connected clients. New data appears immediately without polling or manual refresh.
Backend Aggregation: One GraphQL API combines data from DynamoDB, legacy REST APIs, and microservices. Clients receive a consistent interface regardless of backend complexity.
Benefits
- Reduced network traffic through targeted data queries
- Native real-time functionality without additional WebSocket infrastructure
- Automatic offline synchronization for mobile apps
- Pay-per-request without server management
Integration with innFactory
As an AWS Reseller, innFactory supports you with AWS AppSync: GraphQL schema design, resolver development, mobile integration, and migration from REST to GraphQL.
Typical Use Cases
Frequently Asked Questions
What does AWS AppSync cost?
AppSync charges $4.00 per million query and mutation operations, $2.00 per million real-time updates, and $0.08 per million connection minutes. The Free Tier includes 250,000 queries/month in the first year.
Which data sources does AppSync support?
AppSync connects DynamoDB, Aurora, OpenSearch, Lambda functions, and any HTTP endpoints. Multiple data sources can be combined in one API.
How does offline support work?
AppSync DataStore automatically synchronizes data between client and cloud. During offline use, changes are stored locally and synchronized when connected. Conflict resolution is configurable.
Can I migrate existing REST APIs?
Yes. AppSync can use REST endpoints as data sources. You can migrate gradually by creating GraphQL resolvers that call REST APIs.