How to Properly Handle Data Loading in a RecyclerView Using Retrofit in Android

Discover effective methods to prevent an empty RecyclerView when loading data from the web with Retrofit. Learn how to implement a progress bar for a better user experience!
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How to Properly Handle Data Loading in a RecyclerView Using Retrofit in Android

In this guide, we will explore better solutions to ensure your RecyclerView is not initially empty and provide a smoother loading experience for users.

Understanding the Problem

When your app is launched, the RecyclerView attempts to display data immediately. If the data is still being fetched from the web API, the view will show up empty, leading to a confusing and frustrating user experience. This happens because network calls are asynchronous and take time to complete.

Current Solution: The Hack

Currently, you might be using a method like this:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

This effectively delays the loading process by simulating a wait time, but it also freezes your UI, negatively impacting the user experience. Users may think your app is unresponsive or broken if the data takes longer than expected to load, resulting in a frustrating experience.

Better Alternatives for Loading Data

Instead of relying on this dirty trick, there are more elegant solutions to handle loading data from a web API efficiently and effectively. Below are two common methods:

1. Use a Progress Bar

Implementing a ProgressBar can inform users that data is loading and enhance their experience while they wait.

Steps to Implement a Progress Bar

Show a Progress Bar Before Data Loads:
Add a ProgressBar to your layout and make it visible before the API call starts.

Hide it Once Data Loads:
In your Retrofit callback, hide the ProgressBar once the data is successfully received.

Here's how you can modify your MainActivity:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

2. Load Data Before Accessing the Activity

Another approach is to load your data even before the MainActivity is accessed. This way, the user sees a loading screen or a simple ProgressBar while the data is being fetched.

With this solution, as soon as your app starts, you can display a loading view and only start the MainActivity once the data is ready.

Handling Errors

Regardless of the approach, always be prepared to handle any failures in your API call. If the request fails (for example, due to network issues), inform the user with a message. This ensures that the user is aware that something went wrong rather than leaving them in the dark.

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Conclusion

Next time you're faced with asynchronous data fetching, remember these approaches for a cleaner and more professional solution!