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Example Projects

The GroupMe API allows for two primary methods of creating bots: Webhook Bots and User Bots. Each has distinct advantages and is suited for different tasks. Understanding their differences is key to building your project.

Webhook Bots vs. User Bots

Webhook Bots (Callback/Webhook Bots)

Webhook Bots are the most common and straightforward type. They function like a web server, passively listening for events.

  • How they work: You provide GroupMe with a Callback URL. When a message is posted in a group where your bot is present, GroupMe sends an HTTP POST request to that URL containing the message data.
  • Identity: They are distinct entities with their own name and avatar, created through the Bot Creation Form.
  • Authentication: They use a bot_id to post messages.
  • Scope: They are "blind" by default and can only see messages in the specific groups they have been added to.
  • Best for: Simple, event-driven tasks within a single group, like responding to commands, posting daily updates, or running games.

User Bots (Push/WebSocket Bots)

User Bots are more powerful and complex. They act on behalf of a real user account, subscribing to a real-time stream of events. By their nature they can do nearly everything a regular user can do (with some exceptions), but they are more complex to set up and manage.

  • How they work: Instead of waiting for a callback, they open a persistent WebSocket connection to GroupMe's Push Service. This gives them a real-time firehose of all activity visible to the user account they are linked to.
  • Identity: They act as a user. They post messages and perform actions under that user's name and do not have their own separate bot identity.
  • Authentication: They use a user's personal access_token.
  • Scope: They can see everything the associated user can see—all group chats, direct messages, and events like users joining/leaving.
  • Best for: Advanced applications that require monitoring activity across multiple groups, managing chats, or providing real-time logging or cross-group functionality.

Our Examples

Here are some example projects to help you get started.

  • 🏓 PingPong Bot – A simple bot that replies "pong" when you say "ping". (getting started with callbacks and attachments)
  • 🦖 DinoBot – A bot that responds to messages in a GroupMe group by sending dinosaur emojis. (emoji system demo)