|
Written by Matt Schaefer - Web Applications Developer
|
 I periodically take time to read up on new directions in web development and technologies. For the last few weeks, my topic of interest has been the long-anticipated arrival of the HTML5 standard. HTML (Hyper Text Markup Language) is the document format for web pages. When written well, it simply defines web page document structure (title, headings, text, links, forms, etc.) — in other words, the document semantic structure.
More or less, most developers have been writing HTML based on a standard last issued over 10 years ago. The web looks a lot different now than it did in 1999 (remember Geocities?). HTML5 is going to be a vast improvement to the old standard, and will move the language toward supporting not only web pages, but web applications. (Think web-based email client, RSS reader, or Facebook as opposed to a static web page.)
Here are some HTML5 highlights:
- native, embedded video and audio (i.e., consistent video experiences without the need for a Flash plugin)
- new form controls (i.e., special fields and controls that web developers don't have to recreate from scratch providing more consistent user interactions across webs sites)
- offline storage and offline operation: developers will be able to design web applications that can function even without an active internet connection
- location-aware browsing: this will allow you to opt-in to let web applications tailor your experience based on your geographical location
This list doesn't even scratch the surface.
The last round of revisions to HTML5 are due in October. Needless to say, I'm looking forward to when we at Scitent can fully submerge ourselves in writing new, clean HTML5! Geeks rejoice!
PS — you can follow my daily updates on Twitter @scitentmatt
|
|
Contact Us
Scitent Technologies
400 Preston Avenue, Suite 250
Charlottesville, VA 22903
Phone: 434.244.5060
Fax: 434.244.5059
info@scitent.com
Online Form
|
