B4R Tutorial Using Firebase to send notifications to iOS and Android devices

Inspired by this example: https://dzone.com/articles/iot-push-notifications-arduino I've created a similar solution in B4X.


When the button is clicked, two http requests are sent to Firebase REST api. Any subscribed Android or iOS device will receive the push message. It is a very simple and powerful solution.
It is simple as you don't need a server and it is powerful as the messages will arrive even when the apps are not running. The solution works over the internet, it is not limited to the local network.

B4A app: https://www.b4x.com/android/forum/threads/67716/#content
B4i app: FirebaseNotifications / Push Messages (server not required)

The B4R code is attached. You need to update the API_KEY and the wifi related settings.

 

[BillMeyer]

A Very BIG Thank you. This opens up a whole new world of possibilities.

 

[Cableguy]

is it possible to target individual devices from those subscribed in firebase?

 

[Erel]

is it possible to target individual devices from those subscribed in firebase?

Yes. You can subscribe each device to a unique topic id and then send the message to the specific topic. Note that you also need to update the content length field.

 

[LWGShane]

Very interesting code. Looks like a very easy way to use push notifications. I might try to build a library for the other platforms to enable easy notifications.

 

[JMB]

How do you get an API_KEY?

JMB

 

[JMB]

Thanks Peter. I will check that out.

Do you have to register your devices with the Firebase service?

JMB

 

[Erel]

Do you have to register your devices with the Firebase service?

See this tutorial: https://www.b4x.com/android/forum/threads/67716/#content

 

[JMB]

Thanks Erel. Will check that out.

It's been a LONG time, but am loving getting back into this stuff. Amazing set of software.

JMB

 

[Julius B.]

Can you please guide me step by step in how to do this? Also, can I do this with Arduino Uno + ESP8266?

 

[Erel]

Also, can I do this with Arduino Uno + ESP8266?

No and it is not needed. You should program the ESP8266 directly.

Can you please guide me step by step in how to do this?

I recommend you to start with B4A tutorials. There is also a tutorial about push notifications.

https://www.b4x.com/etp.html

 

[Julius B.]

No and it is not needed. You should program the ESP8266 directly.


I recommend you to start with B4A tutorials. There is also a tutorial about push notifications.

https://www.b4x.com/etp.html

If I only program the ESP8266, how will the button send the message?

 

[Erel]

You cannot send push messages without a native Android or iOS app that receives the messages.