Definition
Data binding is a way of linking an app’s user interface (UI) with its data. This helps to automatically update the UI with the latest data.
Data Binding Types
- One-way data binding: The data updates the UI, but changes to the UI don’t affect the data. This method is ideal for displaying read-only information like a product’s name on a shopping site.
- Two-way data binding: In a two-way data binding, the data flows in both directions. So, changes in the UI update the data, and data changes update the UI. It is ideal for interactive and form elements like delivering address fields.
How Data Binding Works
- The developer defines the data sources as either simple variables or more complex data structures.
- The developer connects UI elements to the data sources.
- The data binding mechanism monitors any changes in the data source and automatically updates the UI if any change occurs. For example, if the user’s name changes in the database, the UI elements must update to reflect the new name.
- In two-way data binding, the system monitors for UI changes, such as user activity. If the user updates the contact address, the new information must be reflected in the data source.
- The app automatically reflects the latest data in the UI, ensuring it is updated.