Overview:The Instagram Direct Inbox is a centralized messaging interface that enables users to manage and interact with their private conversations on the Instagram platform. It provides real-time chat capabilities, including one-to-one messaging, group chats, media sharing, and notifications.Core MVP FeaturesSecure AuthenticationAccess requires successful user login through Instagram's OAuth authentication.Only authenticated users can view and send direct messages.Conversation List ViewDisplays a vertically scrollable list of all recent chats (individual and group).Each conversation item shows:User/group profile imageDisplay nameMessage preview (text or media icon)Timestamp of the last messageUnread message indicator (dot or badge)Real-Time MessagingUsers can send and receive messages instantly via WebSockets or Instagram’s real-time messaging API.Supports:Text messagesEmojis and stickersPhoto and video sharingVoice notes (optional in full product scope)Chat InterfaceSelected conversation opens in a dedicated pane or modal.Chat UI includes:Sender and recipient avatarsTimestamped message bubblesInput field for typing messagesMedia attachment iconSend buttonMessage NotificationsBrowser or in-app notifications for new incoming messages.Optionally includes sound or badge updates.Basic Group Chat SupportUsers can participate in group chats (read and reply).Group name and profile image are shown in the conversation list.No group management features (e.g., member addition/removal) in MVP.Navigation & ResponsivenessFully responsive layout for both desktop and mobile views.Navigation back to the home feed is accessible at all times.Inbox UI remains consistent across devices.Non-MVP/Deferred Features (for later phases)Vanishing messages (disappearing after view)Reactions to individual messagesVideo/voice callingMessage forwardingEnd-to-end encryptionChat themes or customizationUnsend/edit sent messagesMessage search and filters
I'll create a comprehensive Instagram Direct Inbox interface based on your specifications. This will include secure authentication, real-time messaging, conversation management, and responsive design.
I've created a comprehensive Instagram Direct Inbox interface that includes all the MVP features you specified:
The application simulates real Instagram Direct messaging functionality with mock data and realistic interactions. Users can log in, view conversations, send messages, and receive simulated responses in real-time. The interface is fully responsive and provides an authentic messaging experience.
I'll integrate Firebase Realtime Database into the Instagram Direct Inbox to provide true real-time messaging capabilities. This will replace the mock data with actual Firebase data persistence and real-time synchronization.
I've successfully integrated Firebase Realtime Database into the Instagram Direct Inbox with the following features:
firebase-database/
├── users/
│ └── {userId}/
│ ├── name, avatar, isOnline, lastSeen
├── conversations/
│ └── {conversationId}/
│ ├── participants[], name, avatar, isGroup, lastMessage
├── messages/
│ └── {conversationId}/
│ └── {messageId}/
│ ├── senderId, content, type, timestamp, isRead
├── userConversations/
│ └── {userId}/
│ └── {conversationId}: true
└── unreadCounts/
└── {userId}/
└── {conversationId}: countFirebaseService Class: Handles all Firebase operations
Real-Time Subscriptions:
Add these environment variables to your .env.local:
NEXT_PUBLIC_FIREBASE_API_KEY=your_api_key
NEXT_PUBLIC_FIREBASE_AUTH_DOMAIN=your_project.firebaseapp.com
NEXT_PUBLIC_FIREBASE_DATABASE_URL=https://your_project-default-rtdb.firebaseio.com/
NEXT_PUBLIC_FIREBASE_PROJECT_ID=your_project_id
NEXT_PUBLIC_FIREBASE_STORAGE_BUCKET=your_project.appspot.com
NEXT_PUBLIC_FIREBASE_MESSAGING_SENDER_ID=your_sender_id
NEXT_PUBLIC_FIREBASE_APP_ID=your_app_idThe application now provides true real-time messaging with Firebase Realtime Database, ensuring messages sync instantly across all devices and users have a seamless messaging experience just like the real Instagram Direct!
To configure the generation, complete these steps: