Comments are a key feature of any blog, news site, or community platform. They help drive engagement, build community, and keep readers coming back. If you’re building a Flutter app powered by WordPress, it’s entirely possible to integrate a full commenting system — using the native WordPress REST API.

In this article, we’ll walk through the conceptual flow of viewing, posting, and managing comments from a Flutter frontend.

Why Add a Commenting System?

• User Engagement: Comments give users a voice and make your app interactive.

• Community Building: Readers can share ideas and opinions right inside the app.

• Content Feedback: Creators get real-time feedback on their posts.

• Increased Time-on-App: Discussion features help users stay longer and return often.

What the WordPress API Offers for Comments

The WordPress REST API provides endpoints for managing comments:

• GET /wp-json/wp/v2/comments — Fetch existing comments

• POST /wp-json/wp/v2/comments — Submit a new comment

• Query parameters include post, author, order, etc.

You can use these endpoints to build your own comment list and submission forms — all natively in Flutter.

Features of a Flutter-Powered Commenting System

1. Display Comments

   • List comments under each post.

   • Show author name, avatar (if available), and date.

   • Optionally support threaded replies (nested).

2. Submit New Comments

   • Authenticated or anonymous users can add comments.

   • Basic form includes name, email (if required), and message.

   • Show success/failure feedback upon submission.

3. Moderation Support

   • Pending comments may need admin approval (based on WordPress settings).

   • Allow users to see a “Waiting for moderation” message.

4. Refresh Comments

   • Option to reload comments on demand or after a new one is posted.

5. Authenticated Comments

   • If using JWT or OAuth login, tie comments to the logged-in user account.

Two Modes of Commenting

Anonymous Comments (Public Mode)

• User enters name and email (optional based on WP settings)

• No login required

• Still subject to moderation (spam, approval, etc.)

Authenticated Comments (Logged-in Users)

• User logs in via JWT (or application password)

• Flutter app auto-fills author details from the token

• Comment is linked to the actual WP user

UI Suggestions for Commenting

• Comment List

  • Scrollable list below each post

  • Use cards or bubbles for modern presentation

• Comment Form

  • Simple input field with submit button

  • Disabled button while submitting

• Reload or Pull-to-Refresh

  • Optional refresh to check for new comments

• Post-submission Feedback

  • Show snackbar or toast confirming submission

  • Indicate if comment is pending moderation