Build a Real-time Chat App with Messaging and Video Calling

Traditional messaging apps often struggle with delays, scalability, or server-heavy video call setups. Building a real-time chat platform that combines instant text messaging with peer-to-peer video communication requires a lightweight, efficient architecture capable of scaling while delivering low-latency experiences.

Using Socket.io for real-time WebSocket-based messaging and WebRTC for direct peer-to-peer media streaming, you can create a modern chat platform. Socket.io handles instant message delivery, typing indicators, and room management, while WebRTC enables direct browser-to-browser audio/video communication with minimal server load.

The server establishes WebSocket connections with clients using Socket.io to manage messaging events. For video calls, WebRTC handles negotiation, signaling, and media stream transfer, enabling direct communication between users after initial coordination. This hybrid approach ensures real-time text delivery and efficient video/audio streaming without routing media through the server.

• Users connect to the server via Socket.io and join chat rooms.
• Messages are broadcast to other participants instantly through WebSocket events.
• When initiating a call, WebRTC signaling messages (offer/answer/ICE candidates) are exchanged over Socket.io.
• Once the handshake completes, media streams (audio/video) flow directly between user browsers using peer connections.
• Servers handle minimal signaling and user management, keeping media streams server-free and secure.

• Socket.io Documentation for Real-time Apps
• WebRTC Official Guide
• Build a Video Chat App with WebRTC and Node.js