Building Convex OS, a Browser-Based React App with Real-Time Sync

Convex OS is a fascinating browser-based operating system that recreates the classic Windows XP desktop experience using React. It achieves seamless, real-time synchronization by storing nearly all of its state—from window positions to running processes—directly in the Convex database. This unique architecture means that moving a window or opening an application in one browser tab is instantly reflected in any other open tab. Because Convex queries are reactive by default, this multi-tab continuity is an automatic feature of the platform rather than a complex engineering challenge.