What is ObjectBox?
ObjectBox is an on-device Database with Vector Search and out-of-the-box Data Sync, designed for resource-efficiency on mobile, IoT, and other embedded devices, like ECUs, robots, and machines. It also excels on servers and cloud systems. The lightweight database uses minimal computing resources such as CPU, memory, and energy (battery), which makes it superfast, sustainable, and cost-effective across environments and workloads. ObjectBox is transactionally-safe (ACID compliant) and reliably persists and synchronizes data under all kinds of challenging conditions—flaky networks, offline scenarios, occasional connectivity issues—so that developers can focus on delivering value while the tough parts work in the background.
Main Benefits
- Fast & Lightweight: ObjectBox is 10X faster than any alternative and comes with an incredibly lightweight footprint.
- Vector Search: The first on-device offline vector search powering on-device AI; cloud optional.
- Sustainable Computing: Its efficiency reduces resource-use (CPU, memory, energy), cutting down on CO2 emissions, time, and money waste.
- Offline-first Experience: Designed to work seamlessly without constant internet access, enabling low-latency “always-on” performance.
- Data Control: Allows self-hosting, local deployment, and on-premise operations to ensure data sovereignty and compliance.
- Real-world Adoption: Running live in millions of cars since 2023 with an impressive 45.8k GitHub stars.
Technology and Usage
ObjectBox is engineered to empower Edge Computing by storing and processing data locally—on the device or even in the car—and synchronizing only the essential data to a central server. This design means that applications built with ObjectBox can deliver consistent, real-time performance even when offline. The system supports on-device data persistence and AI, scaling effortlessly with growing needs while remaining resourceful with low battery, CPU, memory, and bandwidth requirements. ObjectBox is the go-to option for applications that demand both high-speed processing and sustainable computing architecture… making data synchronization and local storage nearly invisible to the end user.
Supported Platforms and Languages
ObjectBox is a versatile solution developed by developers for developers, offering easy integration across multiple platforms. The supported languages include Java, C, Go, Kotlin & Swift, as well as Flutter for Dart—all backed by comprehensive documentation, such as Sync Docs, Java Docs, C/C++ Docs, and more. It runs on a variety of systems like Android, Mac/iOS, Windows, Linux, and even Rasp Pi. ObjectBox’s broad compatibility means that whether it is a mobile device, an IoT gadget, or a server in the cloud, the database ensures that crucial data is stored effectively and remains available whenever it is needed.
Performance and Sustainability
The object-oriented architecture of ObjectBox, featuring a fast on-device database with vector search, delivers unparalleled performance while keeping energy consumption at a minimum. Its low computational footprint enables applications in car ECUs, industrial IoT, robots, and more to perform reliably in both connected and offline scenarios. The system’s efficient data synchronization model means that only the necessary data transfers occur—eliminating unnecessary resource wastage and promoting a more sustainable computing environment overall. The lightweight yet robust design makes it an attractive option in scenarios where power conservation and environmental impact are critical considerations.
Project Impact
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- SDG 13: Climate Action
Applications & Use Cases
ObjectBox facilitates scalable and sustainable digitalization in a variety of industries. It supports numerous solutions including Connected Cars, Industrial IoT, Energy Industry, Smart Mobility, Retail Services, Games, and other IoT use cases. In the realm of on-device AI, ObjectBox leads the way with its integrated vector search that operates offline and in real time, thereby eliminating the necessity for constant connectivity. For example, in automotive applications, ObjectBox empowers devices to store and process data locally within the car. This means the systems continue running optimally even during intermittent connectivity… ensuring a smooth, always-on performance that is essential for today’s smart technologies. Furthermore, in industrial environments, where resilience and resource management are paramount, ObjectBox’s ACID-compliant design and efficient sync model make it an ideal tool for ensuring that critical data is reliably synchronized, even in challenging conditions.
