Real-Time Messaging

Real-Time Messaging

OrbitingFox uses WebSocket connections so messages appear instantly in your browser without you having to refresh the page.

How it works

When you open a direct conversation or a planet board, your browser connects to the OrbitingFox server over a persistent WebSocket. When someone sends a message, the server pushes it directly to everyone viewing that conversation — the message appears in under a second.

Unread badge

The FoxCom link in the left navigation shows a red badge with the number of unread direct conversations. This count refreshes automatically every 20 seconds.

Connection drops

If your internet connection drops, the WebSocket reconnects automatically after 3 seconds. Any messages sent while you were offline will appear as soon as the connection is restored.