Mobile Dev

Flutter WebSocket Implementation for Real-Time Betting Odds

Complete guide to implementing WebSocket in Flutter for real-time betting odds comparison using odds-api.io API with connection stability and error handling.

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How can I implement a WebSocket in Flutter for a betting odds comparison tool to get real-time odds? I have the code ready, but I’m struggling with the WebSocket implementation. I’m using the odds-api.io API. Here’s my code for websocket_service.dart and market_list_screen.dart:

dart
// websocket_service.dart
import 'dart:convert';
import 'package:web_socket_channel/web_socket_channel.dart';
import '../config/api_config.dart'; // Importing your configuration file

class PropWebSocketService {
  WebSocketChannel? _channel;

  /// Opens connection to server and returns a data stream.
  /// The [matchId] is the ID of the game you want to monitor.
  Stream connect(String matchId) {
    // 1. Build URL using your centralized settings
    final url = "${ApiConfig.wsUrl}?apiKey=${ApiConfig.apiKey}&";
    
    // 2. Establish physical connection
    _channel = WebSocketChannel.connect(Uri.parse(url));

    // 3. Prepare subscription message according to documentation
    // This tells the server: "I want to receive updates for this specific game"
    final subscribeMsg = {
      "action": "subscribe",
      "params": {
        "event_ids": [matchId],
        "markets": ["player_props"]
      }
    };

    // 4. Send subscription message immediately after connecting
    _channel!.sink.add(jsonEncode(subscribeMsg));

    // Return message stream for the Screen to listen to
    return _channel!.stream;
  }

  /// Closes connection and cleans up resources. 
  /// Should be called in your Screen's dispose().
  void disconnect() {
    _channel?.sink.close();
    _channel = null;
  }
}
dart
// market_list_screen.dart (Screen where show me the odds and markets)
import 'dart:convert';
import 'package:flutter/material.dart';
import 'package:sysbetv2/services/prop_service.dart';
import 'package:sysbetv2/services/websocket_service.dart';
import 'package:sysbetv2/utils/normalization_helper.dart';
import '../models/match_model.dart';
import '../models/prop_model.dart';
import '../models/ev_metrics.dart';

class MarketListScreen extends StatefulWidget {
  final MatchModel match;
  const MarketListScreen({super.key, required this.match});

  @override
  State<MarketListScreen> createState() => _MarketListScreenState();
}

class _MarketListScreenState extends State<MarketListScreen> {
  final PropsService _propsService = PropsService();
  final PropWebSocketService _wsService = PropWebSocketService();
  
  // Cache that keeps the odds alive on screen for WebSocket to update
  Map<String, List<PlayerProp>> _cachedData = {};
  bool _isLoading = true;

  final List<String> referenceBooks = ['Pinnacle', 'DraftKings', 'FanDuel'];
  bool _sortByOpportunity = true;
  String _searchQuery = "";
  final TextEditingController _searchController = TextEditingController();

  @override
  void initState() {
    super.initState();
    _initDataFlow();
  }

  @override
  void dispose() {
    _wsService.disconnect();
    _searchController.dispose();
    super.dispose();
  }

  // --- DATA LOGIC (HTTP + WEBSOCKET) ---

  Future<void> _initDataFlow() async {
    try {
      // 1. Initial snapshot via HTTP
      final initialData = await _propsService.getPlayerProps(widget.match.id);
      setState(() {
        _cachedData = initialData;
        _isLoading = false;
      });
      // 2. Connect WebSocket for real-time updates
      _startWsListening();
    } catch (e) {
      setState(() => _isLoading = false);
    }
  }

void _startWsListening() {
    // Convert ID from int to String using .toString()
    _wsService.connect(widget.match.id.toString()).listen((message) {
      _processWsUpdate(message);
    });
  }

  void _processWsUpdate(dynamic message) {
    try {
      // 1. Check if message is already a Map or needs decoding
      final Map<String, dynamic> data = message is String 
          ? jsonDecode(message.trim()) 
          : message;
      
      // 2. Check if expected structure exists
      if (data.containsKey('action') && data['action'] == 'update') {
        final List<dynamic> updates = data['data'] ?? [];
        
        setState(() {
          for (var update in updates) {
            final bookmakers = update['bookmakers'] ?? [];
            for (var book in bookmakers) {
              final String bookKey = _normalizeBookieName(book['key']);
              final markets = book['markets'] ?? [];

              for (var market in markets) {
                final String rawMarketKey = market['key'];
                final outcomes = market['outcomes'] ?? [];

                for (var outcome in outcomes) {
                  final String label = outcome['description'] ?? outcome['name'] ?? "";
                  final String side = (outcome['name'] as String).toUpperCase();
                  final String price = outcome['price'].toString();
                  final double hdp = (outcome['point'] ?? 0.0).toDouble();

                  final tempProp = PlayerProp.fromLabel(
                    label: label,
                    hdp: hdp,
                    over: side == "OVER" ? price : "-",
                    under: side == "UNDER" ? price : "-",
                    bookmaker: bookKey,
                    b365MarketName: rawMarketKey,
                  );

                  _mergeUpdateIntoCache(tempProp, side, price);
                }
              }
            }
          }
        });
      }
    } catch (e) {
      debugPrint("Error processing WS message: $e");
    }
  }

  void _mergeUpdateIntoCache(PlayerProp update, String side, String price) {
    final marketKey = update.marketName;
    if (!_cachedData.containsKey(marketKey)) return;

    final List<PlayerProp> props = _cachedData[marketKey]!;
    
    int index = props.indexWhere((p) => 
      p.playerName == update.playerName && 
      p.bookmaker == update.bookmaker && 
      p.hdp == update.hdp
    );

    if (index != -1) {
      // If already exists, we use copyWith to update ONLY the odd that changed
      props[index] = props[index].copyWith(
        over: side == "OVER" ? price : null,
        under: side == "UNDER" ? price : null,
      );
    } else {
      // If it's a new line (different HDP), we add it to the list
      props.add(update);
    }
  }

  String _normalizeBookieName(String key) {
    if (key.contains('pinnacle')) return 'Pinnacle';
    if (key.contains('bet365')) return 'Bet365';
    if (key.contains('draftkings')) return 'DraftKings';
    if (key.contains('fanduel')) return 'FanDuel';
    return key;
  }

  // --- GAP AND CALCULATION LOGIC (YOUR BASE) ---

  double _calculateMaxLineGap(List<PlayerProp> props) {
    if (props.isEmpty) return 0.0;
    final lines = props.map((p) => p.hdp).toList();
    final minLine = lines.reduce((a, b) => a < b ? a : b);
    final maxLine = lines.reduce((a, b) => a > b ? a : b);
    return (maxLine - minLine).abs();
  }

  bool _hasAnyPlayerCriticalGap(List<PlayerProp> allProps) {
    Map<String, List<PlayerProp>> playerMap = {};
    for (var p in allProps) {
      playerMap.putIfAbsent(p.playerName, () => []).add(p);
    }
    for (var playerProps in playerMap.values) {
      if (_calculateMaxLineGap(playerProps) >= 2.0) return true;
    }
    return false;
  }

  bool _hasAnyPlayerNormalGap(List<PlayerProp> allProps) {
    Map<String, List<PlayerProp>> playerMap = {};
    for (var p in allProps) {
      playerMap.putIfAbsent(p.playerName, () => []).add(p);
    }
    for (var playerProps in playerMap.values) {
      if (_calculateMaxLineGap(playerProps) >= 0.5) return true;
    }
    return false;
  }

  double _calculateOpportunityScore(List<PlayerProp> props) {
    double maxEv = -999.0;
    for (var p in props) {
      if (p.evData != null && p.evData!.evPercent > maxEv) maxEv = p.evData!.evPercent;
    }
    double gapWeight = 0;
    if (_hasAnyPlayerCriticalGap(props)) gapWeight = 50; 
    else if (_hasAnyPlayerNormalGap(props)) gapWeight = 25;

    return (maxEv * 1000) + gapWeight;
  }

  // --- INTERFACE ---

  @override
  Widget build(BuildContext context) {
    if (_isLoading) {
      return const Scaffold(
        backgroundColor: Color(0xFF0E1621),
        body: Center(child: CircularProgressIndicator(color: Color(0xFF5288C1))),
      );
    }

    // Processed Cache grouping
    final Map<String, List<PlayerProp>> groupedData = {};
    _cachedData.forEach((key, value) {
      String normalizedKey = NormalizationHelper.normalizeMarketName(key);
      if (normalizedKey.isEmpty) return;
      normalizedKey = normalizedKey[0].toUpperCase() + normalizedKey.substring(1);

      bool marketMatches = normalizedKey.toLowerCase().contains(_searchQuery);
      bool anyPlayerMatches = value.any((p) => p.playerName.toLowerCase().contains(_searchQuery));

      if (_searchQuery.isEmpty || marketMatches || anyPlayerMatches) {
        if (groupedData.containsKey(normalizedKey)) {
          groupedData[normalizedKey]!.addAll(value);
        } else {
          groupedData[normalizedKey] = List.from(value);
        }
      }
    });

    var marketKeys = groupedData.keys.toList();
    if (_sortByOpportunity) {
      marketKeys.sort((a, b) => _calculateOpportunityScore(groupedData[b]!).compareTo(_calculateOpportunityScore(groupedData[a]!)));
    } else {
      marketKeys.sort();
    }

    return Scaffold(
      backgroundColor: const Color(0xFF0E1621),
      appBar: AppBar(
        backgroundColor: const Color(0xFF17212B),
        title: Column(
          crossAxisAlignment: CrossAxisAlignment.start,
          children: [
            Text('${widget.match.home} @ ${widget.match.away}', 
                style: const TextStyle(fontSize: 12, color: Colors.white70)),
            const Text("Real Time Markets", style: TextStyle(fontSize: 14, fontWeight: FontWeight.bold)),
          ],
        ),
        bottom: PreferredSize(
          preferredSize: const Size.fromHeight(60),
          child: Padding(
            padding: const EdgeInsets.symmetric(horizontal: 12, vertical: 8),
            child: TextField(
              controller: _searchController,
              onChanged: (value) => setState(() => _searchQuery = value.toLowerCase()),
              style: const TextStyle(color: Colors.white),
              decoration: InputDecoration(
                hintText: "Search player or market...",
                hintStyle: const TextStyle(color: Colors.white38, fontSize: 14),
                prefixIcon: const Icon(Icons.search, color: Colors.white38),
                filled: true,
                fillColor: const Color(0xFF0E1621),
                contentPadding: const EdgeInsets.symmetric(vertical: 0),
                border: OutlineInputBorder(borderRadius: BorderRadius.circular(10), borderSide: BorderSide.none),
                suffixIcon: _searchQuery.isNotEmpty 
                  ? IconButton(
                      icon: const Icon(Icons.clear, color: Colors.white38),
                      onPressed: () {
                        _searchController.clear();
                        setState(() => _searchQuery = "");
                      },
                    )
                  : null,
              ),
            ),
          ),
        ),
        actions: [
          IconButton(
            icon: Icon(_sortByOpportunity ? Icons.trending_up : Icons.sort_by_alpha, 
                color: _sortByOpportunity ? Colors.greenAccent : Colors.white),
            onPressed: () => setState(() => _sortByOpportunity = !_sortByOpportunity),
          )
        ],
      ),
      body: marketKeys.isEmpty 
        ? const Center(child: Text("No results found.", style: TextStyle(color: Colors.white38)))
        : ListView.builder(
            itemCount: marketKeys.length,
            itemBuilder: (context, index) {
              final marketName = marketKeys[index];
              final props = groupedData[marketName]!;
              
              var playerEntries = _getOrderedPlayers(props).where((entry) {
                if (_searchQuery.isEmpty) return true;
                return entry.key.toLowerCase().contains(_searchQuery) || marketName.toLowerCase().contains(_searchQuery);
              }).toList();

              if (playerEntries.isEmpty) return const SizedBox.shrink();

              final bestEv = _getBestEvInMarket(props);
              bool isHighValue = (bestEv?.evPercent ?? 0) >= 10.0;

              return _buildMarketCard(marketName, playerEntries, bestEv, isHighValue, props);
            },
          ),
    );
  }

  // --- WIDGET BUILDING (YOUR UI MAINTAINED) ---

  Widget _buildMarketCard(String name, List<MapEntry<String, List<PlayerProp>>> playerEntries, EvMetrics? bestEv, bool isHighValue, List<PlayerProp> allMarketProps) {
    IconData leadingIcon = Icons.lens_blur_rounded;
    Color iconColor = Colors.white24;

    bool hasCritical = _hasAnyPlayerCriticalGap(allMarketProps);
    bool hasNormal = _hasAnyPlayerNormalGap(allMarketProps);

    if (hasCritical) {
      leadingIcon = Icons.local_fire_department;
      iconColor = Colors.redAccent;
    } else if (hasNormal) {
      leadingIcon = Icons.bolt;
      iconColor = Colors.yellowAccent;
    }

    return TweenAnimationBuilder<double>(
      tween: Tween<double>(begin: 0.6, end: 1.0),
      duration: const Duration(milliseconds: 1000),
      builder: (context, opacity, child) {
        return Card(
          color: isHighValue ? const Color(0xFF1B2E25) : const Color(0xFF17212B),
          margin: const EdgeInsets.symmetric(horizontal: 10, vertical: 6),
          shape: RoundedRectangleBorder(
            borderRadius: BorderRadius.circular(8),
            side: isHighValue 
                ? BorderSide(color: Colors.greenAccent.withOpacity(opacity), width: 2)
                : (hasCritical ? BorderSide(color: Colors.redAccent.withOpacity(0.4), width: 1.5) : BorderSide(color: Colors.white.withOpacity(0.05), width: 0.5)),
          ),
          child: child,
        );
      },
      child: ExpansionTile(
        initiallyExpanded: _searchQuery.isNotEmpty,
        leading: Icon(leadingIcon, color: iconColor),
        title: Row(
          children: [
            Expanded(child: Text(name, style: const TextStyle(color: Colors.white, fontWeight: FontWeight.bold, fontSize: 13))),
            if (bestEv != null && bestEv.evPercent > 0) _buildEvBadge(bestEv),
          ],
        ),
        children: playerEntries.map((entry) => _buildPlayerComparisonCard(entry.key, entry.value)).toList(),
      ),
    );
  }

  Widget _buildPlayerComparisonCard(String playerName, List<PlayerProp> props) {
    final hdps = props.map((p) => p.hdp).toSet().toList()..sort();
    final b365 = props.where((p) => p.bookmaker == 'Bet365').firstOrNull;
    final playerGap = _calculateMaxLineGap(props);
    bool isHighValuePlayer = (b365?.evData?.evPercent ?? 0) >= 10.0;

    return Container(
      margin: const EdgeInsets.symmetric(horizontal: 12, vertical: 8),
      padding: const EdgeInsets.all(12),
      decoration: BoxDecoration(
        color: isHighValuePlayer ? const Color(0xFF244235) : const Color(0xFF242F3D),
        borderRadius: BorderRadius.circular(10),
        border: isHighValuePlayer 
          ? Border.all(color: Colors.greenAccent, width: 1.5) 
          : (playerGap >= 2.0 ? Border.all(color: Colors.redAccent.withOpacity(0.5), width: 1.5) : null),
      ),
      child: Column(
        children: [
          Row(
            mainAxisAlignment: MainAxisAlignment.spaceBetween,
            children: [
              Row(
                children: [
                  Text(playerName, style: const TextStyle(fontWeight: FontWeight.bold, color: Color(0xFF6AB2F2), fontSize: 14)),
                  if (playerGap >= 2.0) 
                    const Padding(padding: EdgeInsets.only(left: 6), child: Icon(Icons.local_fire_department, color: Colors.redAccent, size: 22))
                  else if (playerGap >= 0.5)
                    const Padding(padding: EdgeInsets.only(left: 6), child: Icon(Icons.bolt, color: Colors.yellowAccent, size: 22)),
                ],
              ),
              if (b365?.evData != null && b365!.evData!.evPercent > 0) _buildEvBadge(b365.evData!),
            ],
          ),
          const SizedBox(height: 16),
          _buildTableHeader(),
          ...hdps.map((hdp) => _buildMarketRowGroup(hdp, props)),
        ],
      ),
    );
  }

  Widget _buildTableHeader() {
    return Padding(
      padding: const EdgeInsets.only(bottom: 10),
      child: Row(
        children: [
          const Expanded(flex: 2, child: SizedBox()),
          ...referenceBooks.map((bn) => Expanded(
            flex: 2, 
            child: Text(bn.length > 3 ? bn.substring(0, 4) : bn, textAlign: TextAlign.center, 
              style: const TextStyle(fontSize: 10, color: Colors.white70, fontWeight: FontWeight.bold))
          )),
          const Expanded(flex: 2, child: Text("B365", textAlign: TextAlign.center, 
              style: TextStyle(fontSize: 11, color: Color(0xFF5288C1), fontWeight: FontWeight.bold))),
          const Expanded(flex: 2, child: Text("AVG", textAlign: TextAlign.center, style: TextStyle(fontSize: 9, color: Colors.white30))),
          const Expanded(flex: 2, child: Text("MIN", textAlign: TextAlign.center, style: TextStyle(fontSize: 9, color: Colors.white30))),
        ],
      ),
    );
  }

  Widget _buildMarketRowGroup(double hdp, List<PlayerProp> props) {
    return Column(
      children: [
        _buildMarketRow("OVER", hdp, props),
        const SizedBox(height: 4),
        _buildMarketRow("UNDER", hdp, props),
        const SizedBox(height: 12),
      ],
    );
  }

  Widget _buildMarketRow(String type, double hdp, List<PlayerProp> playerProps) {
    final baseProps = playerProps.where((p) => referenceBooks.contains(p.bookmaker) && p.hdp == hdp).toList();
    double minOdd = 99.0, sum = 0; int count = 0;
    for (var p in baseProps) {
      double val = double.tryParse(type == "OVER" ? p.over : p.under) ?? 0;
      if (val > 1) { if (val < minOdd) minOdd = val; sum += val; count++; }
    }
    double avg = count > 0 ? sum / count : 0;
    final b365 = playerProps.where((p) => p.bookmaker == 'Bet365' && p.hdp == hdp).firstOrNull;
    bool hasEv = b365?.evData != null && b365!.evData!.side.toUpperCase() == type && b365.evData!.evPercent > 0;

    return Row(
      children: [
        Expanded(flex: 2, child: Text("${type[0]} $hdp", style: TextStyle(fontSize: 11, fontWeight: FontWeight.bold, color: type == "OVER" ? Colors.greenAccent : Colors.redAccent))),
        ...referenceBooks.map((bookie) => _buildCell(bookie, hdp, type, playerProps)),
        _buildCell('Bet365', hdp, type, playerProps, isExecution: true, highlight: hasEv),
        Expanded(flex: 2, child: _buildMetricBox(avg.toStringAsFixed(2), Colors.white38)),
        Expanded(flex: 2, child: _buildMetricBox(minOdd == 99.0 ? "-" : minOdd.toStringAsFixed(2), Colors.white70)),
      ],
    );
  }

  Widget _buildCell(String bookie, double hdp, String type, List<PlayerProp> playerProps, {bool isExecution = false, bool highlight = false}) {
    final p = playerProps.where((p) => p.bookmaker == bookie && p.hdp == hdp).firstOrNull;
    String val = p != null ? (type == "OVER" ? p.over : p.under) : "-";
    return Expanded(
      flex: 2,
      child: Container(
        margin: const EdgeInsets.all(1),
        padding: const EdgeInsets.symmetric(vertical: 8),
        decoration: BoxDecoration(
          color: highlight ? const Color(0xFF2E7D32) : (isExecution ? const Color(0xFF2B3643) : const Color(0xFF17212B)),
          borderRadius: BorderRadius.circular(4),
          border: highlight ? Border.all(color: Colors.greenAccent, width: 1.5) : null,
        ),
        child: Text(val, textAlign: TextAlign.center, style: const TextStyle(color: Colors.white, fontSize: 11, fontWeight: FontWeight.bold)),
      ),
    );
  }

  Widget _buildMetricBox(String value, Color textColor) {
    return Container(
      margin: const EdgeInsets.all(1),
      padding: const EdgeInsets.symmetric(vertical: 8),
      decoration: BoxDecoration(color: Colors.black26, borderRadius: BorderRadius.circular(4)),
      child: Text(value, textAlign: TextAlign.center, style: TextStyle(color: textColor, fontSize: 10, fontWeight: FontWeight.bold)),
    );
  }

  Widget _buildEvBadge(EvMetrics ev) {
    bool isSuperHigh = ev.evPercent >= 10.0;
    return Row(
      mainAxisSize: MainAxisSize.min,
      children: [
        Container(
          padding: const EdgeInsets.symmetric(horizontal: 10, vertical: 6),
          decoration: BoxDecoration(
            color: isSuperHigh ? Colors.greenAccent : const Color(0xFF2E7D32),
            borderRadius: BorderRadius.circular(6),
          ),
          child: Text("${ev.evPercent.toStringAsFixed(2)}% EV", 
            style: TextStyle(color: isSuperHigh ? Colors.black : Colors.white, fontSize: 13, fontWeight: FontWeight.bold)),
        ),
        const SizedBox(width: 6),
        _unitBadge("U4", ev.u4, Colors.orangeAccent),
        const SizedBox(width: 4),
        _unitBadge("U8", ev.u8, Colors.blueAccent),
      ],
    );
  }

  Widget _unitBadge(String label, double val, Color col) {
    return Container(
      padding: const EdgeInsets.symmetric(horizontal: 7, vertical: 4),
      decoration: BoxDecoration(
        color: col, 
        borderRadius: BorderRadius.circular(6),
        border: Border.all(color: Colors.white.withOpacity(0.2), width: 1),
      ),
      child: Column(
        mainAxisSize: MainAxisSize.min,
        children: [
          Text(label, style: const TextStyle(color: Colors.white, fontSize: 9, fontWeight: FontWeight.bold)),
          Text(val.toStringAsFixed(2), 
            style: const TextStyle(color: Colors.white, fontSize: 12, fontWeight: FontWeight.bold)),
        ],
      ),
    );
  }

  EvMetrics? _getBestEvInMarket(List<PlayerProp> props) {
    EvMetrics? best;
    for (var p in props) {
      if (p.evData != null && (best == null || p.evData!.evPercent > best.evPercent)) best = p.evData;
    }
    return best;
  }

  List<MapEntry<String, List<PlayerProp>>> _getOrderedPlayers(List<PlayerProp> props) {
    Map<String, List<PlayerProp>> map = {};
    for (var p in props) map.putIfAbsent(p.playerName, () => []).add(p);
    var entries = map.entries.toList();

    if (_sortByOpportunity) {
      entries.sort((a, b) {
        final scoreA = _calculateOpportunityScore(a.value);
        final scoreB = _calculateOpportunityScore(b.value);
        return scoreB.compareTo(scoreA);
      });
    }
    return entries;
  }
}

Implementing a Flutter WebSocket for real-time betting odds comparison with odds-api.io requires addressing connection stability, error handling, and widget lifecycle management. Based on your code, I can identify several common WebSocket issues Flutter developers face and provide comprehensive solutions to ensure reliable real-time odds streaming.

Contents

Understanding odds-api.io WebSocket Implementation

The odds-api.io API provides WebSocket support for real-time sports betting odds streaming, which is essential for your betting odds comparison tool. According to the OddsPapi documentation, their WebSocket service offers “fast and reliable” real-time odds data from multiple bookmakers.

When implementing WebSocket connections for real-time odds, it’s crucial to understand the subscription process. Your current implementation correctly builds the URL and sends a subscription message:

dart
final url = "${ApiConfig.wsUrl}?apiKey=${ApiConfig.apiKey}&";
final subscribeMsg = {
  "action": "subscribe",
  "params": {
    "event_ids": [matchId],
    "markets": ["player_props"]
  }
};

However, several improvements can make your Flutter WebSocket implementation more robust for handling real-time odds streaming:

  1. Protocol specification: Always specify wss:// (secure WebSocket) in your URL to avoid connection issues
  2. Connection timeout: Implement proper timeout handling for initial connections
  3. Heartbeat mechanism: Many WebSocket servers require regular pings to maintain the connection

Common WebSocket Issues in Flutter

Based on numerous developer experiences and community discussions, several issues commonly arise when implementing WebSockets in Flutter for real-time data:

1. Connection Closure on Widget Rebuild

The “websocket flutter closes on widget rebuild” issue affects many real-time applications. When Flutter rebuilds widgets, the widget tree disposes and recreates stateful widgets, potentially closing WebSocket connections. Your current implementation partially addresses this by calling disconnect() in dispose(), but this can cause data loss during navigation.

2. Network Instability

Mobile networks frequently change between WiFi, cellular, and no connectivity, causing WebSocket connections to drop. Without proper reconnection logic, your real-time odds comparison tool will stop updating odds until the user manually refreshes.

3. Memory Leaks

Improperly managed streams can cause memory leaks in Flutter. The official Flutter documentation states: “The StreamBuilder widget connects to a Stream and asks Flutter to rebuild every time it receives an event.” If streams aren’t properly closed, they continue running in memory.

4. Message Parsing Errors

Your current implementation has basic JSON parsing, but real-world WebSocket messages can be malformed or contain unexpected structures that cause your app to crash.

Enhanced WebSocket Service Implementation

Here’s an improved version of your websocket_service.dart that addresses these common issues:

dart
// websocket_service.dart
import 'dart:async';
import 'dart:convert';
import 'package:web_socket_channel/web_socket_channel.dart';
import 'package:web_socket_channel/status.dart' as status;
import '../config/api_config.dart';

class PropWebSocketService {
  WebSocketChannel? _channel;
  StreamController<String>? _messageController;
  Timer? _heartbeatTimer;
  Timer? _reconnectTimer;
  final Duration _heartbeatInterval = const Duration(seconds: 30);
  final Duration _reconnectInterval = const Duration(seconds: 5);
  bool _isConnecting = false;
  bool _isManualDisconnect = false;
  String? _currentMatchId;

  /// Opens connection to server and returns a data stream.
  /// The [matchId] is the ID of the game you want to monitor.
  Stream<String> connect(String matchId) {
    _currentMatchId = matchId;
    _isManualDisconnect = false;
    
    // Create a stream controller to manage the stream lifecycle
    _messageController = StreamController<String>.broadcast();
    
    // Start connection process
    _establishConnection();
    
    // Return the stream from the controller
    return _messageController!.stream;
  }

  void _establishConnection() {
    if (_isConnecting || (_channel != null && _channel!.closeCode == null)) {
      return; // Already connecting or connected
    }

    _isConnecting = true;
    
    try {
      // 1. Build URL using secure WebSocket protocol
      final url = "wss://${ApiConfig.wsUrl.replaceFirst('https://', '')}?apiKey=${ApiConfig.apiKey}&";
      
      // 2. Establish physical connection with timeout
      _channel = WebSocketChannel.connect(
        Uri.parse(url),
        headers: {'Connection': 'Upgrade'},
      );

      // 3. Set up stream handlers
      _channel!.stream.listen(
        _handleMessage,
        onError: _handleError,
        onDone: _handleConnectionClosed,
      );

      // 4. Prepare subscription message
      final subscribeMsg = {
        "action": "subscribe",
        "params": {
          "event_ids": [_currentMatchId],
          "markets": ["player_props"]
        }
      };

      // 5. Send subscription message after connection is established
      _channel!.sink.add(jsonEncode(subscribeMsg));
      
      // 6. Start heartbeat to maintain connection
      _startHeartbeat();
      
    } catch (e) {
      _isConnecting = false;
      _scheduleReconnect();
    }
  }

  void _handleMessage(dynamic message) {
    try {
      // Parse message and pass to stream controller
      final String messageStr = message is String ? message : jsonEncode(message);
      _messageController?.add(messageStr);
    } catch (e) {
      debugPrint("Error handling WebSocket message: $e");
    }
  }

  void _handleError(Object error) {
    debugPrint("WebSocket error: $error");
    _handleConnectionClosed();
  }

  void _handleConnectionClosed() {
    if (_isManualDisconnect) return;
    
    _isConnecting = false;
    _stopHeartbeat();
    
    // Clean up current connection
    _channel?.sink.close(status.normalClosure);
    _channel = null;
    
    // Schedule reconnection
    _scheduleReconnect();
  }

  void _scheduleReconnect() {
    _reconnectTimer?.cancel();
    _reconnectTimer = Timer(_reconnectInterval, () {
      if (!_isManualDisconnect && _currentMatchId != null) {
        _establishConnection();
      }
    });
  }

  void _startHeartbeat() {
    _stopHeartbeat();
    _heartbeatTimer = Timer.periodic(_heartbeatInterval, (timer) {
      if (_channel?.closeCode == null) {
        // Send ping to keep connection alive
        _channel?.sink.add(jsonEncode({"action": "ping"}));
      } else {
        _stopHeartbeat();
      }
    });
  }

  void _stopHeartbeat() {
    _heartbeatTimer?.cancel();
    _heartbeatTimer = null;
  }

  /// Closes connection and cleans up resources. 
  /// Should be called in your Screen's dispose().
  void disconnect() {
    _isManualDisconnect = true;
    _stopHeartbeat();
    _reconnectTimer?.cancel();
    
    _channel?.sink.close(status.normalClosure);
    _channel = null;
    
    _messageController?.close();
    _messageController = null;
  }
}

Key improvements in this enhanced WebSocket service:

  1. Connection Management: Tracks connection state and prevents multiple simultaneous connection attempts
  2. Reconnection Logic: Automatically attempts to reconnect when the connection drops
  3. Heartbeat Mechanism: Sends periodic pings to maintain the WebSocket connection
  4. Stream Controller: Properly manages the stream lifecycle to prevent memory leaks
  5. Error Handling: Catches and handles various WebSocket errors gracefully
  6. Protocol Security: Uses wss:// for secure WebSocket connections

Improved Market List Screen with WebSocket

Your market_list_screen.dart has good structure but can benefit from improvements for WebSocket integration:

dart
// market_list_screen.dart (improved version)
import 'dart:async';
import 'dart:convert';
import 'package:flutter/material.dart';
import 'package:sysbetv2/services/prop_service.dart';
import 'package:sysbetv2/services/websocket_service.dart';
import 'package:sysbetv2/utils/normalization_helper.dart';
import '../models/match_model.dart';
import '../models/prop_model.dart';
import '../models/ev_metrics.dart';

class MarketListScreen extends StatefulWidget {
  final MatchModel match;
  const MarketListScreen({super.key, required this.match});

  @override
  State<MarketListScreen> createState() => _MarketListScreenState();
}

class _MarketListScreenState extends State<MarketListScreen> 
    with AutomaticKeepAliveClientMixin {
  final PropsService _propsService = PropsService();
  final PropWebSocketService _wsService = PropWebSocketService();
  
  // Cache that keeps the odds alive on screen for WebSocket to update
  Map<String, List<PlayerProp>> _cachedData = {};
  bool _isLoading = true;
  
  // Stream subscription for handling WebSocket messages
  StreamSubscription<String>? _wsSubscription;
  
  final List<String> referenceBooks = ['Pinnacle', 'DraftKings', 'FanDuel'];
  bool _sortByOpportunity = true;
  String _searchQuery = "";
  final TextEditingController _searchController = TextEditingController();
  
  @override
  bool get wantKeepAlive => true; // Keep state during navigation

  @override
  void initState() {
    super.initState();
    _initDataFlow();
  }

  @override
  void dispose() {
    _wsSubscription?.cancel();
    _wsService.disconnect();
    _searchController.dispose();
    super.dispose();
  }

  // --- DATA LOGIC (HTTP + WEBSOCKET) ---

  Future<void> _initDataFlow() async {
    try {
      // 1. Initial snapshot via HTTP
      final initialData = await _propsService.getPlayerProps(widget.match.id);
      setState(() {
        _cachedData = initialData;
        _isLoading = false;
      });
      
      // 2. Connect WebSocket for real-time updates
      _startWsListening();
    } catch (e) {
      debugPrint("Error initializing data flow: $e");
      setState(() => _isLoading = false);
      // Implement retry logic here if needed
    }
  }

  void _startWsListening() {
    // Convert ID from int to String using .toString()
    final stream = _wsService.connect(widget.match.id.toString());
    
    // Cancel previous subscription if exists
    _wsSubscription?.cancel();
    
    // Create new subscription with proper error handling
    _wsSubscription = stream.listen(
      (message) => _processWsUpdate(message),
      onError: (error) {
        debugPrint("WebSocket subscription error: $error");
        // Reconnect logic can be added here
      },
      onDone: () {
        debugPrint("WebSocket stream completed");
      },
    );
  }

  void _processWsUpdate(dynamic message) {
    try {
      // 1. Check if message is already a Map or needs decoding
      final Map<String, dynamic> data = message is String 
          ? jsonDecode(message.trim()) 
          : message;
      
      // 2. Validate message structure
      if (data.isEmpty || !data.containsKey('action')) {
        debugPrint("Invalid WebSocket message structure");
        return;
      }
      
      // 3. Process different message types
      switch (data['action']) {
        case 'update':
          _handleUpdateMessage(data);
          break;
        case 'ping':
        case 'pong':
          // Handle heartbeat messages (no action needed)
          break;
        case 'error':
          _handleErrorMessage(data);
          break;
        default:
          debugPrint("Unknown WebSocket action: ${data['action']}");
      }
    } catch (e) {
      debugPrint("Error processing WS message: $e");
    }
  }

  void _handleUpdateMessage(Map<String, dynamic> data) {
    final List<dynamic> updates = data['data'] ?? [];
    
    if (updates.isEmpty) return;
    
    setState(() {
      for (var update in updates) {
        final bookmakers = update['bookmakers'] ?? [];
        for (var book in bookmakers) {
          final String bookKey = _normalizeBookieName(book['key']);
          final markets = book['markets'] ?? [];

          for (var market in markets) {
            final String rawMarketKey = market['key'];
            final outcomes = market['outcomes'] ?? [];

            for (var outcome in outcomes) {
              final String label = outcome['description'] ?? outcome['name'] ?? "";
              final String side = (outcome['name'] as String).toUpperCase();
              final String price = outcome['price'].toString();
              final double hdp = (outcome['point'] ?? 0.0).toDouble();

              final tempProp = PlayerProp.fromLabel(
                label: label,
                hdp: hdp,
                over: side == "OVER" ? price : "-",
                under: side == "UNDER" ? price : "-",
                bookmaker: bookKey,
                b365MarketName: rawMarketKey,
              );

              _mergeUpdateIntoCache(tempProp, side, price);
            }
          }
        }
      }
    });
  }

  void _handleErrorMessage(Map<String, dynamic> data) {
    final String errorMessage = data['message'] ?? 'Unknown WebSocket error';
    debugPrint("WebSocket error: $errorMessage");
    
    // Show error to user if it's critical
    if (data.containsKey('severity') && data['severity'] == 'critical') {
      ScaffoldMessenger.of(context).showSnackBar(
        SnackBar(
          content: Text('Odds update error: $errorMessage'),
          backgroundColor: Colors.redAccent,
        ),
      );
    }
  }

  // [Rest of your existing methods remain the same with minor improvements]
  void _mergeUpdateIntoCache(PlayerProp update, String side, String price) {
    final marketKey = update.marketName;
    if (!_cachedData.containsKey(marketKey)) {
      debugPrint("Market key not found in cache: $marketKey");
      return;
    }

    final List<PlayerProp> props = _cachedData[marketKey]!;
    
    int index = props.indexWhere((p) => 
      p.playerName == update.playerName && 
      p.bookmaker == update.bookmaker && 
      p.hdp == update.hdp
    );

    if (index != -1) {
      // If already exists, we use copyWith to update ONLY the odd that changed
      props[index] = props[index].copyWith(
        over: side == "OVER" ? price : null,
        under: side == "UNDER" ? price : null,
      );
    } else {
      // If it's a new line (different HDP), we add it to the list
      props.add(update);
    }
  }
  
  // ... [All other existing methods remain unchanged] ...
}

Key improvements in this enhanced market list screen:

  1. Automatic State Preservation: Using AutomaticKeepAliveClientMixin to keep the widget state during navigation
  2. Proper Stream Management: Ensuring subscriptions are properly cancelled
  3. Error Handling: Adding specific error handling for different WebSocket message types
  4. Message Validation: Checking message structure before processing
  5. Debug Logging: Adding debug prints for troubleshooting

Error Handling and Reconnection Logic

Robust error handling is crucial for real-time odds comparison tools. Here’s a comprehensive error handling strategy:

1. Connection Error Handling

dart
// Add this method to your WebSocket service
void _handleConnectionError(dynamic error) {
  debugPrint("WebSocket connection error: $error");
  
  // Determine error type and respond accordingly
  if (error is WebSocketChannelException) {
    if (error.message.contains('Connection closed before established')) {
      // Network connectivity issue
      _scheduleReconnect();
    } else if (error.message.contains('No route to host')) {
      // Host unreachable - might be API server down
      _notifyServerDown();
    }
  } else {
    // Generic error
    _scheduleReconnect();
  }
}

void _notifyServerDown() {
  // You could implement a notification system here
  // or show a persistent error message to the user
}

2. Message Processing Error Handling

dart
// Enhanced version of your _processWsUpdate method
void _processWsUpdate(dynamic message) {
  try {
    // Validate message structure first
    if (message == null) {
      debugPrint("Received null WebSocket message");
      return;
    }

    final Map<String, dynamic> data;
    if (message is String) {
      data = jsonDecode(message.trim());
    } else if (message is Map) {
      data = Map<String, dynamic>.from(message);
    } else {
      debugPrint("Unsupported WebSocket message type: ${message.runtimeType}");
      return;
    }

    // Process based on action
    switch (data['action']) {
      case 'update':
        _handleUpdateMessage(data);
        break;
      case 'ping':
      case 'pong':
        // Heartbeat messages - no action needed
        break;
      case 'error':
        _handleErrorMessage(data);
        break;
      case 'reconnect':
        // Server-initiated reconnect
        _handleReconnectMessage(data);
        break;
      default:
        debugPrint("Unknown WebSocket action: ${data['action']}");
    }
  } on FormatException catch (e) {
    debugPrint("JSON parsing error in WebSocket message: $e");
  } catch (e) {
    debugPrint("Unexpected error processing WebSocket message: $e");
  }
}

3. User-Friendly Error Messages

dart
// Add this to your MarketListScreen
void _showWebSocketError(String message) {
  if (!mounted) return;
  
  ScaffoldMessenger.of(context).showSnackBar(
    SnackBar(
      content: Text(message),
      backgroundColor: Colors.redAccent,
      duration: const Duration(seconds: 3),
      action: SnackBarAction(
        label: 'Retry',
        textColor: Colors.white,
        onPressed: () => _initDataFlow(),
      ),
    ),
  );
}

Best Practices for Real-Time Odds Streaming

1. Connection Management

  • Always use WSS protocol: Secure WebSocket connections prevent interception of betting odds data
  • Implement exponential backoff: Gradually increase reconnection intervals to avoid overwhelming the server
  • Manage connection state: Track whether you’re connected, connecting, or disconnected to prevent race conditions

2. Data Processing

  • Validate all incoming data: Odds API responses can change, so always validate data structure
  • Implement rate limiting: Prevent UI flooding by batching rapid updates
  • Use immutable patterns: When updating UI state, create new objects rather than modifying existing ones

3. Memory Management

  • Cancel all subscriptions: Always cancel stream subscriptions in dispose()
  • Use controllers wisely: StreamControllers should be properly closed when no longer needed
  • Avoid memory leaks: Be cautious with closures that capture objects

4. Performance Optimization

  • Debounce rapid updates: If multiple updates arrive quickly, batch them for performance
  • Use const constructors: Where possible, use const constructors to reduce widget rebuilds
  • Optimize widget trees: Minimize deep widget trees that require rebuilding for each WebSocket update

Testing and Debugging WebSocket Connections

1. WebSocket Connection Testing

dart
// Add this to your WebSocket service for testing
Future<void> _testConnection() async {
  try {
    final testUrl = "wss://${ApiConfig.wsUrl.replaceFirst('https://', '')}?apiKey=${ApiConfig.apiKey}&test=true";
    final channel = WebSocketChannel.connect(Uri.parse(testUrl));
    
    // Wait for response
    final response = await channel.stream.first;
    debugPrint("Test connection response: $response");
    
    channel.sink.close();
  } catch (e) {
    debugPrint("Test connection failed: $e");
  }
}

2. Message Logging

dart
// Add comprehensive logging to your WebSocket service
void _logWebSocketMessage(String direction, dynamic message) {
  final timestamp = DateTime.now().toIso8601String();
  final logMessage = "$timestamp [$direction] $message";
  
  // In production, you might want to use a proper logging library
  debugPrint(logMessage);
  
  // Optionally send logs to a monitoring service
  // _sendLogToService(logMessage);
}

3. Network Condition Simulation

During development, simulate different network conditions to test your WebSocket implementation:

  • Slow connections: Test with high latency
  • Dropped connections: Test connection drops and reconnection
  • Limited bandwidth: Test with data caps to see how your app responds

Performance Optimization Tips

1. Widget Update Optimization

dart
// In your MarketListScreen, use OptimizedUpdate widget
class OptimizedUpdate extends StatelessWidget {
  final List<PlayerProp> props;
  final Widget child;
  
  const OptimizedUpdate({super.key, required this.props, required this.child});
  
  @override
  Widget build(BuildContext context) {
    // Compare with previous props to avoid unnecessary rebuilds
    return child;
  }
}

2. Stream Batching

dart
// Add this to your WebSocket service
Stream<List<String>> getBatchedUpdates(Stream<String> originalStream, Duration interval) {
  final controller = StreamController<List<String>>.broadcast();
  final buffer = <String>[];
  Timer? timer;
  
  void onMessage(String message) {
    buffer.add(message);
    
    timer?.cancel();
    timer = Timer(interval, () {
      if (buffer.isNotEmpty && !controller.isClosed) {
        controller.add(List.from(buffer));
        buffer.clear();
      }
    });
  }
  
  originalStream.listen(
    onMessage,
    onDone: () {
      if (buffer.isNotEmpty && !controller.isClosed) {
        controller.add(buffer);
      }
      controller.close();
    },
    onError: (error) {
      controller.addError(error);
    },
  );
  
  return controller.stream;
}

3. Lazy Loading

For markets with many players, implement lazy loading:

dart
// In your market card builder
void _loadMorePlayers(String marketName) {
  // Implement pagination or infinite scroll for player lists
}

Conclusion

Implementing a robust Flutter WebSocket for real-time betting odds comparison requires addressing several common challenges. By implementing proper connection management, error handling, and reconnection logic, you can create a reliable odds comparison tool that provides seamless real-time updates.

The enhanced WebSocket service implementation includes automatic reconnection, proper stream management, and secure connections using the WSS protocol. Combined with improved error handling in your market list screen, these changes will significantly improve the reliability of your betting odds comparison tool.

Remember to thoroughly test your WebSocket implementation under various network conditions and always handle edge cases that might occur with real-time sports betting data. As industry experts note, “Raw WebSockets will rarely be enough, even for basic use cases” - implementing proper error handling and reconnection logic is essential for production applications.

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Flutter WebSocket Implementation for Real-Time Betting Odds