Getting started with Next.js Edge Functions

Next.js Edge functions, recently announced by the Vercel team, enable developers to execute code globally at locations closest to users, reducing latency and eliminating cold starts through the use of V8 Isolates. These functions are akin to serverless functions run on CDN infrastructure, offering significant performance improvements for applications with global reach. The process of getting started with Next.js Edge involves creating a Next.js application, setting up a Redis database using Upstash, and developing an edge function to deliver location-based custom greetings. The application, once deployed to Vercel, demonstrates the ability to serve personalized content with low latency by fetching data from the nearest server. Upstash Redis enhances this functionality by providing a globally optimized data service tailored for edge functions, helping developers build fast and responsive applications.