REX

REX is a real-time messaging app with direct messages, group chats, user search, and profile customization. Stay connected with a seamless, responsive UI and instant updates. Now in early access—join us and be part of the journey!

🚀 Features

• 💬 1-to-1 Direct Messaging – Real-time private chats using WebSockets
• 👥 Group Chat Support – Chat with multiple users in custom group rooms
• 🔐 Authentication – Secure login & registration flow
• 🎨 Custom Chat Backgrounds – Personalize your chat window
• 😄 Emoji Picker – Express yourself with a wide range of emojis
• 📎 File Uploads – Share images, videos, and files easily
• 📱 Fully Responsive – Works seamlessly on mobile, tablet, and desktop

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🛠 Tech Stack

Frontend

• ⚛️ React
• 🧠 Zustand – Lightweight state management
• 🌐 Socket.IO Client
• 🎨 CSS (Custom / Framework of choice)

Backend

• 🟢 Node.js + Express
• 🌐 Socket.IO Server
• 🗂 MongoDB (Mongoose ODM)
• 📤 Multer for file uploads
• 🔐 JWT / Token-based Authentication

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📸 Screenshots

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📦 Installation

🔧 Backend Setup

cd server
npm install
npm run dev
 

Configure .env for DB URI and JWT secret:

MONGO_URI=your_mongo_connection JWT_SECRET=your_jwt_secret

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🔧 Frontend Setup

cd client
npm install
npm start

📁 Folder Structure

rex/
├── client/           # React frontend
└── server/           # Express backend & Socket.IO