This would show the last known table schema and data that was shown, but would allow to make records and sync when the mobile device comes back online. Issues would be resolved via the web to validate issues.
Yes, Offline Mode please!! I use databases to store gps waypoints, notes, images and all kinds of information about outdoor locations (many of which are outside of cell coverage) and although I love Airtable, in it’s present form it can’t be used for any data gathering outside of cell coverage. This would be greatly beneficial to outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, surveyors, disaster relief, restoration, construction, forestry, you name it- any type of activity that takes a person outside of cell coverage.
Here is one idea on how to accomplish this…
-User would have an “Offline” switch and the app would warn the user the device will download a full copy of the database to the local device which can be read, edited, etc but no table structures or relationships may be edited in offline mode. Only records can be read, edited and added in offline mode but table, form and field types are locked while offline.
-When connectivity is re-established, an integrity check would be done to ensure that the table structures and relationships have not changed (by other users that were online) since the user went offline. If architecture has changed, user is presented with a choice to either make a copy of the device data with the prefix “syncconflict_” or ask the user if they want local device data replaced with the current server structure and data.
In any case, I really hope Airtable implements an Offline Mode as soon as possible. It would make this app so much more userful for so many types of businesses, organizations and activities that do not necessary have data coverage 100% of the time.
agreed, and there are multiple requests for offline mode but unfortunately they are all fragmented all over the site. we need to combine our requests into a single Offline Mode feature request that everyone can get on board with, to maximize visibility to this. I will say, Airtable has replied to me personally and said this is in their plans, but no indication of when it may be available. If lots of people need it, it may help to move it up the priority list.
+1
the use cases are plentiful.
For example in film production there are many potential uses, from locations to shot lists and script / continuity.
And we’re often working on remote locations, in basements, etc. where mobile coverage is bad or nonexistent.
Most definitely the most useful feature to be able to work offline. Right now, when the internet connection is not good, it takes too long to upload databases especially when it gets large.
Airtable is the most used app, because I have so much information on it. Not able to work offline is an impediment.