localfirst.fm #7 – James Long: Actual Budget, Hybrid Logical Clocks & Absurd-SQL
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Apr 9, 2024 In this episode, James Long, creator of Actual Budget and Absurd-SQL, discusses building Actual Budget, implementing syncing solutions, transitioning to different platforms, and bringing SQLite to the browser. Topics include using SQLite in Electron apps, collaboration in local-first apps, challenges in desktop-mobile app integration, and navigating async issues in WebAssembly. The conversation also explores the evolution of web development, programming models, and the role of React.
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Actual Budget Origin
- James Long created Actual Budget in 2017 because he wanted a local app and disliked web development.
- Initially, it was an Electron app using SQLite, offering raw data access and avoiding hosting complexities.
SQLite's Architectural Advantage
- Using a local SQLite database in an Electron app simplifies the architecture.
- Direct SQL queries in components eliminate unnecessary API layers.
Reactivity Implementation
- Actual Budget's reactivity is implemented through a custom data query language, not directly through SQLite's limited hooks.
- All data mutations flow through a CRDT system, enabling fine-grained reactivity by tracking changes.