Filters On References Do Expect Plain IDs Instead Of Relay IDs
Introduction
When working with GraphQL APIs, it's essential to understand the nuances of how different libraries handle IDs and references. In this article, we'll delve into a specific issue related to the use of Relay IDs versus plain IDs in filtering references. We'll explore the problem, its implications, and the intended behavior of the library in question.
Background
The issue at hand is related to the use of Relay IDs, which are a type of ID used in GraphQL APIs to represent relationships between objects. Relay IDs are typically base64-encoded strings that contain the type and ID of the object. For example, the ID InstanceType:1 would be encoded as SW5zdGFuY2VUeXBlOjE=.
The Problem
The problem arises when trying to filter references using Relay IDs. In the past, it was necessary to specify the Relay ID when filtering, as shown in the following example:
query allChildModels {
allChildModels(parentInstanceId: "SW5zdGFuY2VUeXBlOjE=") {
edges {
node {id}
}
}
}
However, with the latest version of the library (0.10.8), this behavior has changed. Now, plain IDs are expected instead of Relay IDs. This is evident in the following example:
query allChildModels {
allChildModels(parentInstanceId: "1") {
edges {
node {id}
}
}
}
Error Message
When using Relay IDs in the new version of the library, an error is thrown:
Select a valid choice. That choice is not one of the available choices. (code: invalid_choice)
This error message is not very informative, making it challenging to diagnose the issue.
Is This Change Intended?
The question remains: is this change to the original behavior intended? The answer lies in understanding the design principles behind the library. By expecting plain IDs instead of Relay IDs, the library aims to simplify the filtering process and reduce the complexity of working with references.
Implications
The change to plain IDs has significant implications for developers who rely on Relay IDs in their applications. It requires a thorough review of the codebase to ensure that all references are updated to use plain IDs. This may involve rewriting queries, updating schema definitions, and reconfiguring data models.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the change to plain IDs instead of Relay IDs in filtering references is a deliberate design decision aimed at simplifying the filtering process. While it may require significant updates to existing codebases, it ultimately leads to a more streamlined and efficient way of working with references in GraphQL APIs.
Recommendations
To ensure a smooth transition to the new version of the library, we recommend the following:
- Review your codebase: Thoroughly review your codebase to identify all instances of Relay IDs in filtering references.
- Update your queries: Update your GraphQL queries to use plain IDs instead of Relay IDs.
- Reconfigure your schema: Reconfigure your schema definitions to reflect the use of plain IDs.
- Test your application: Thoroughly test your application to ensure that all references are working correctly with plain IDs.
Q: What is the issue with using Relay IDs in filtering references?
A: The issue is that the latest version of the library (0.10.8) expects plain IDs instead of Relay IDs in filtering references. This means that using Relay IDs will result in an error.
Q: What is the error message I'll see when using Relay IDs?
A: The error message you'll see is:
Select a valid choice. That choice is not one of the available choices. (code: invalid_choice)
This error message is not very informative, making it challenging to diagnose the issue.
Q: Why did the library change to expect plain IDs instead of Relay IDs?
A: The library changed to expect plain IDs to simplify the filtering process and reduce the complexity of working with references.
Q: What are the implications of this change?
A: The change to plain IDs has significant implications for developers who rely on Relay IDs in their applications. It requires a thorough review of the codebase to ensure that all references are updated to use plain IDs. This may involve rewriting queries, updating schema definitions, and reconfiguring data models.
Q: How do I update my codebase to use plain IDs?
A: To update your codebase, you'll need to:
- Review your codebase: Thoroughly review your codebase to identify all instances of Relay IDs in filtering references.
- Update your queries: Update your GraphQL queries to use plain IDs instead of Relay IDs.
- Reconfigure your schema: Reconfigure your schema definitions to reflect the use of plain IDs.
- Test your application: Thoroughly test your application to ensure that all references are working correctly with plain IDs.
Q: What are the benefits of using plain IDs instead of Relay IDs?
A: The benefits of using plain IDs include:
- Simplified filtering process
- Reduced complexity of working with references
- Improved performance and efficiency
Q: Are there any potential drawbacks to using plain IDs?
A: Yes, there are potential drawbacks to using plain IDs, including:
- Increased complexity of working with IDs in certain scenarios
- Potential issues with data consistency and integrity
Q: How can I ensure that my application is compatible with the new version of the library?
A: To ensure that your application is compatible with the new version of the library, you should:
- Review your codebase to identify any potential issues
- Update your queries and schema definitions to use plain IDs
- Test your application thoroughly to ensure that all references are working correctly with plain IDs
By following these steps, you can ensure that your application is compatible with the new version of the library and takes advantage of the improved filtering process.