Mobile databases typically operate as embedded engines within applications, storing data locally and providing APIs for CRUD (Create, Read, Update, Delete) operations. Many follow a client-server architecture where the mobile client syncs with a remote server or cloud database. Synchronization is often handled via REST APIs, WebSockets, or proprietary protocols.
Some solutions use a three-tier model including local storage, synchronization mobile database gateways, and cloud backend databases to manage scalability and conflict resolution. The architecture is designed to handle intermittent connectivity and to optimize battery and network usage by syncing only necessary data changes.
Offline Data Access and Synchronization
Offline capability is a core requirement for mobile databases. Applications must function seamlessly even without an active internet connection. Mobile databases cache data locally, allowing users to read and modify information offline. When connectivity resumes, synchronization processes merge local changes with server data. This requires conflict detection and resolution strategies to ensure data consistency. Synchronization may be one-way or bidirectional and can occur in real-time or on-demand. Efficient synchronization minimizes data transfer to preserve bandwidth and battery life.