Progressive JSON
lastmod 2025-06-02created 2025-06-022 edits
Like progressive JPEG, an approach that sends JSON data first in an incomplete state so the client can gradually make use of the full content
About
- Conventional JSON parsing is inefficient because nothing can be done until all of the data has been received
- Splits the data into multiple chunks (parts) breadth-first, marks parts that are not ready yet as Promises, and fills them in progressively as they become ready, so the client can use even incomplete data
- This concept is the core innovation of React Server Components (RSC), which control intentional, staged loading states through <Suspense>
- Separating data streaming from the intentional UI loading flow allows a more flexible user experience
See also
- JSON
- React Server Components