Hey there, fellow Bubblers! 
If you’ve ever tried to track which users are online in real-time on Bubble, you’ve probably realized it’s not as straightforward as it seems. Most solutions require you to update the user’s online status in Bubble’s database frequently. While this might seem like a quick fix, it’s actually a workload killer!
The Problem with Current Approaches
Updating the database every time a user comes online, goes offline, or interacts with your app means you’re running constant workflows. This eats up your Bubble workload units faster than you can imagine, leaving your app sluggish, costly, and less scalable. If your app grows and you have more users online at the same time, this approach becomes unsustainable.
But don’t worry—I’ve got your back!
The Most Efficient Solution: WebSockets 
In my latest tutorial, I show you how to implement a WebSocket-based solution that’s far more efficient. With WebSockets, you can establish a live connection between the user’s browser and your server. This means the server knows exactly when a user is online or offline in real-time—no constant database updates required!
This approach is:
• Lightweight: It doesn’t overload your Bubble workflows or eat up workload units.
• Real-time: Changes are reflected instantly, creating a smoother user experience.
• Scalable: Perfect for apps with growing user bases.
How to Set It Up
I created a step-by-step tutorial that walks you through the entire process. In the video, I explain how to set up WebSockets for real-time user tracking and how to integrate this with Bubble. Whether you’re a no-code enthusiast or a seasoned developer, the tutorial is beginner-friendly and packed with actionable tips.
Check out the full tutorial here: https://youtu.be/q60omZ7RX60?si=kDj4prMNVoieSEAa
Why This Matters
Bubble is an amazing platform, but to truly unlock its potential, we sometimes need to think outside the box and adopt innovative solutions. By using WebSockets, you’re not only saving your workload units but also creating a faster, more scalable app.
I’d love to hear what you think about this solution! If you try it out, let me know how it works for your app—or if you run into any challenges, feel free to reach out.
Happy Bubbling,