URLSessionWebSocketTask + WebSocket+ Persistent socket connection even in background

Hello, I am currently working on an iOS application that relies on WebSocket connections for real-time data updates. As part of our application's functionality, we need to ensure that WebSocket connections continue to operate seamlessly when the iOS app is in the background or when the device is locked by the user. I am seeking clarification on the following points:

WebSocket Connection in Background:

  • Will WebSocket connections remain active and functional when the iOS app is in the background?
  • If not, what are the recommended best practices or guidelines for maintaining

WebSocket connections during background execution?

WebSocket Connection when Device is Locked:

  • How does WebSocket behave when the iOS device is locked by the user?
  • Are there any specific considerations or configurations that need to be addressed to ensure the WebSocket connection persists when the device is locked?

Alternate Solutions for Background Data Collection:

  • If WebSocket connections are not intended to work in the background, are there alternative approaches or APIs that can be employed to collect real-time data while the app is in the background?
  • Specifically, is there a recommended method to collect data from a WebSocket connection and store it locally in an SQLite database while the application is running in the background?

Any insights or guidance you can provide on these matters?

Replies

As part of our application's functionality, we need to ensure that WebSocket connections continue to operate seamlessly when the iOS app is in the background or when the device is locked by the user.

That’s not possible. I recommend that you start with iOS Background Execution Limits then post back here with your remaining questions.

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Quinn “The Eskimo!” @ Developer Technical Support @ Apple
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