Indie Hacker Playbooks

Firebase

Google's BaaS chosen when a mobile app MVP needs a database

What it is

Google's bundle of backend services — database (Firestore, Realtime DB), authentication, hosting and more.

How to apply

  • In Rapid B2C App MVP it's mentioned as the DB you attach "when needed" — the MVP starts without a backend, and you add it once you actually need data.
  • Compare its document-oriented BaaS role with the PostgreSQL-centered Supabase before choosing an MVP data model.
  • See Database & Cache for the exit-decision and migration paths around managed backends.
  • iOS build and release lead on to Xcode and the Apple App Store.

Limits

  • The source doesn't cover which Firebase product you use, or the free tier and costs.

  • It's a passing mention in the source, so this page is short. It'll be expanded as more usage emerges.

  • Firebase

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