How to Enable and Use Live Messaging in BuddyBoss

Introduction

Live Messaging in the BuddyBoss Platform enhances community engagement by enabling real-time communication. With features like typing indicators, online status updates, and instant message delivery without page refreshes, users experience a seamless and interactive messaging environment. This guide walks you through the steps to enable Live Messaging on both web and app versions of BuddyBoss, along with troubleshooting tips and related resources.

Key Features of Live Messaging

• Typing Indicator: This shows when another user is typing a message in real time.
• Instant Message Delivery: Messages appear instantly without refreshing the browser or app.
• Online Status Indicator: Displays the real-time online status of community members.
• Media Sharing: Supports sending photos, videos, emojis, and GIFs within messages.

Step 1: Update BuddyBoss to the Latest Version

To access the new Live Messaging feature, update to the latest version of:

• BuddyBoss Platform
• BuddyBoss Platform Pro
• BuddyBoss Theme

For App Customers: Ensure the App Plugin is updated, then create a new App Build.

Step 2: Integrate with Pusher

Live Messaging is powered by the Pusher Channel service, enabling real-time features like typing indicators and online status.

1. Navigate to Integration Settings:
   • Go to Dashboard > BuddyBoss > Integration > Pusher.
     
2. Create a Free Pusher Account:
   • Visit the Pusher website and click Sign Up. If you already have an account, click Sign In.
   • After logging in, go to Channels and select Create App.
3. Configure the Pusher App:
   • Enter an App Name (e.g., “BuddyBoss App”).
   • Select a Cluster (e.g., us2 – US East (Ohio)). Clusters represent the physical location of the servers that handle requests.
   • Optional: If you manage multiple environments (staging or development), consider creating separate channel apps. Uncheck the option to share the channel app if using multiple websites or apps.
   • Click Create App.
     
4. Enable Required Settings:
   • Go to App Settings in the left sidebar.
     • Turn on Enable Client Events.
     • Turn on Enable Authorized Connections (This is crucial for Live Messaging to work).
       
5. Retrieve and Enter App Keys:
   • In-App Keys, copy and paste the following into the WordPress Pusher Settings:
     • App ID > Pusher App ID
     • Key > Pusher App Key
     • Secret > Pusher Secret Key
     • Cluster > Select the same cluster as in Pusher (us2 in this example).
   • Click Save Settings.
     
6. Activate Live Messaging:
   • Confirm the Pusher status is now Connected.
   • Check the option to Enable Live Messaging.
   • Click Save Settings again. Live Messaging is now active on the front end.

Step 3: Test Live Messaging on the Web

1. Open Two Browsers:
   • Log in as two different members, e.g., John and Luna.
   • John types a message but doesn’t press send.
   • In Luna’s browser, a typing indicator shows that John is typing.
     
2. Send the Message:
   • John clicks Send, and Luna receives the message instantly without refreshing her browser.
   • The same functionality applies when sending media like photos and videos.
     
3. Online Status Indicator:
   • The online status updates in real-time, reflecting when users sign in or out.

How to Configure Live Messaging on the App

1. Open the BuddyBoss App on Two Devices:
   • Log in on two phones, one as John and the other as Luna.
   • A green online indicator appears on both devices, showing their real-time status.
     
2. Send a Live Message:
   • John types a message, and a typing indicator appears on Luna’s screen.
   • Once John sends the message, Luna receives it instantly without refreshing.
   • Luna replies, and the same experience is mirrored on John’s device.
     
3. Group Messaging Support:
   • Typing indicators are also visible in group threads, allowing members to see who is typing in real-time.

Troubleshooting

Q: Why isn’t Live Messaging working after setup?
A: Double-check that Enable Client Events and Enable Authorized Connections are turned on in Pusher App Settings.

Q: Messages are delayed or not delivered. What should I check?
A: Ensure the internet connection is stable and the Pusher status in BuddyBoss is Connected.

Q: The typing indicator isn’t showing. How can I fix this?
A: Clear browser cache or reinstall the BuddyBoss App. Verify that both users are online and using updated versions.

Related Resources

• How to Set Up Privacy Settings in BuddyBoss
• Customizing Notification Settings for Private Messaging
• Managing Media Uploads on the BuddyBoss Platform