React Server Components + AI: Streaming Patterns That Work

Combining React Server Components with AI streaming creates incredibly responsive UIs. Here are the patterns we use in production.

The Basic Pattern

Use RSC for the initial page load, then stream AI responses client-side with the AI SDK's useChat hook.

Streaming Structured Data

With generateObject and a Zod schema, you can stream structured data and render it progressively as the AI generates each field.

Error Handling

Always implement fallbacks for AI failures. Show cached responses, graceful degradation messages, or retry mechanisms.

Performance Tips

1. Use Suspense boundaries around AI components

2. Implement optimistic updates

3. Cache AI responses where appropriate

4. Use edge functions for lower latency