Beyond REST - Using Full-Stack Signals for Real-Time Reactive UIs

Explore how to build modern web applications that go beyond traditional REST APIs by implementing full-stack signals for real-time reactive user interfaces in this 45-minute conference talk from Spring I/O 2025. Learn why modern web applications require more than simple JSON requests and form submissions, as users now expect real-time updates, offline synchronization, and seamless cross-device experiences. Discover how UI frameworks have adopted the "signals" concept to simplify UI state management and updates, and understand how this same approach can be extended across the network as a full-stack solution. Master the techniques for synchronizing application data between multiple users through the entire application stack, from the user interface down to the database level. Gain practical insights through hands-on demonstrations that show how to implement collaborative shared UI states that update in real-time across multiple users. Understand the limitations of relying solely on low-level conventions like REST and WebSockets, and learn how full-stack signals can reduce development effort while creating more engaging user experiences. Acquire the knowledge needed to build applications that truly delight users by providing the responsive, collaborative functionality they expect from modern web applications.