Augmenting SQLite for Local-First Software

Abstract

Local-first software aims at both the ability to work offline on local data and the ability to collaborate across multiple devices. CRDTs (conflict-free replicated data types) are abstractions for offline and collaborative work that guarantees strong eventual consistency. RDB (relational database) is a mature and successful computer industry for management of data, and SQLite is an ideal RDB candidate for offline work on locally stored data. CRRs (conflict-free replicated relations) apply CRDTs to RDB data. This paper presents our work in progress that augments SQLite databases with CRR for local-first software. No modification or extra software is needed for existing SQLite applications to continue working with the augmented databases.