Category archives: HTML 5

 

 

Mozilla demos WebRTC integration, browser-powered video chat (video)

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Last week at IETF 83 in Paris Mozilla gave a little demo that went almost completely unnoticed. The team behind Firefox showed off an experimental built of its flagship browser with integrated WebRTC support. To showcase the real-time communication plug-in’s capabilities, the foundation built a simple video chat client based around Persona and SocialAPI. Whether or not such a feature will ever make it into an official build of the browser remains to be seen, but for now you can check out the simple, yet impressive, HTML and Javascript demo after the break. Continue reading Mozilla demos WebRTC integration, browser-powered video chat (video) Mozilla demos WebRTC integration, browser-powered video chat (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 21:36:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds . Permalink TechCrunch | Mozilla Hacks | Email this | Comments

 

Back to basics: how to code an HTML5 template

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Markup is a beautiful thing, and it certainly has changed over the years. What was effectively HTML1, has certainly progressed to an amazing semantic markup language, to which we can largely thank the W3C. And, what do ya know, the next thing to thank them for has come about – HTML5. Unlike previous version of HTML, where the code was mostly a limited structure that was determined by how you made use of the class and ID elements, html5 really attempts to provide much more structure. All of the layout can be created with semantic tags and elements that determine how you should structure, and, arguably more important, that help you structure each page. This produces code that is much more clean and readable than in previous versions of HTML, and really is something quite amazing. The new tags really require that you think about how you are structuring your page, which let’s be honest – in the end that is a great thing for us web designers and developers alike. Before understanding the structure of HTML5, and how to create and code an example template to use for your projects you should be aware of how it came about. Be aware though that the current version of HTML5 has not reached a version that the W3C could call final as of yet, but their is quite a lot to learn about and start using in your code right now. Here is what the W3C has to say on this issue: “Implementors should be aware that this specification is not stable. Implementors who are not taking part in the discussions are likely to find the specification changing out from under them in incompatible ways. Vendors interested in implementing this specification before it eventually reaches the Candidate Recommendation stage should join the aforementioned mailing lists and take part in the discussions .” But, don’t let that scare you. There are always people out there constantly making sure that it doesn’t get changed out from underneath of all of us. So you will certainly be aware if such a drastic change does indeed happen. Back on topic, one of the main questions people have about HTML5 is “ , , , these tags seem understandable enough but where in the world did the W3C come up with these?” Well, that question is easy enough to answer. It came from you! It actually came from all of us. In 2005 Google conducted a study of over 3 billion websites and found that the most common classes used in common markup were actually what you see there on that page. Footer, menu, title, small, text, content, header, and nav are all among the top of the popularity chart. And essentially that is how the W3C decided on what to use for the new semantic tags for HTML5. Now that we know about that, let’s dive right into what those tags are and the basic fundamental changes in HTML5. The doctype A doctype isn’t particularly an element of the HTML, but it is a deceleration, and one that has become more and more important as time goes on. Using one appropriately can help your browser understand what sort of HTML it is trying to parse so we always want to use the appropriate doctypes. In all honesty, at this current time, you can pretty much just use the HTML5 doctype for everything though – but let’s cover some past ones as well. Here is where we have come as far as simplicity: HTML2: HTML3: HTML4: HTML5: Pretty great right? You don’t need to keep a document for copying and pasting in some ridiculously long doctype, or even worse yet, try to remember the ridiculously long doctypes of versions past. For HTML5 you simply have to type . Ah, what a relief. Other simplifications in HTML5 Before leaving this section, let’s go through some of the other elements that have gotten simpler. The root element has been simplified, to which instead of having to write something like: We can just write: The things we need to copy and paste getting smaller and smaller by the minute. For instance, also, In the head element, our character encoding went from things like: to the newer version in HTML5: And lastly, our links have dropped their type attribute. So for instance, this: Becomes this: So what’s with these new tags? The “section” tag The section element is basically any generic section of an HTML document. Most typically though, it is a thematic grouping of content – which can have a heading but doesn’t require one. A general rule of thumb for using the section heading is only use it if it would be explicitly referenced in the document’s outline. If, in the outline, there was a ‘section’ that you referenced or feel that all the content in one area is a ‘section’ of sorts – then do indeed include the section tag. If you want to use it mainly for styling purposes though, just don’t . Instead, use a tag as you normally would. The “nav” tag The “nav” element represents any section of a page that links to other parts of that page or other pages within the sitemap. Anytime you think of navigation links, you should think “nav tag”. The nav element is particularly intended for larger navigation blocks. Any large element that links to other sections of the site’s page or other pages of the site. Keep in mind though, a navigation section doesn’t have to be in the form of a list, albeit that is pretty standard. It can be in prose, paragraph tags, or pretty much anything – as long as it was originally suited to be in such tags in the first place. The article tag The article element represents a self-contained composition in a document, page, or any site. The really important thing to keep in mind with article tags is that it is, typically, independently distributable or reusable content is what is usually placed within the tags. It could be a forum post, a magazine or newspaper article, or a blog entry, even comments – as long as it is any independent item of content. Articles can hold “section”s inside them, “header”s inside them, even “hgroup”s inside them. But do keep in mind when and how you are using this element, as it isn’t quite as commonly used as a tag. So in summation, it isn’t a one-in-all answer for everything, but it does indeed have a lot of uses. Let’s hop into an example. For instance, let’s say you have a blog post with some comments. You can do that like this in HTML5: The Blog Entry Title 12/25/2045 Blog entry … Comments Posted by: Name of person Time: 15 minutes ago Comment text here /p> Posted by: Name of person Time: 25 minutes ago Another comment here The “aside” tag The aside element represents any section of a page that consists of content that is tangentially related to the content around the aside element. The most important thing to remember with this tag is that although it is content tangentially related to the content around the aside tag, it is typically information or content that is separated in characteristic. You will most often use it in sidebars, as most sidebars are perfect to be entirely wrapped in aside tags. Other uses can include pull quotes, bits of advertising, groups of nav links, or even addresses near the address of a location in question. To get into more detail though, it is for anytime you feel the need to quite literally take an aside and explain, reference, mention, state, or question something. You can even use an aside element for a larger section of a site, such as a side-bar for Twitter, or Facebook, or random links. You could have it be an aside, then use a header and nav section within it even to help understand what is going on there. You can use it in the footer section of blog posts to reference things about them, or pretty much anywhere it can be perfectly implemented. The “hgroup” tag The hgroup element represents the heading of a section. This element is best used to group a set of h1-h6 elements when the heading has multiple levels, or subheadings – such as exactly the article you are reading. This would be perfect for an hgroup. You can also use it for alternative titles, or tag-lines. The W3C reminds us: “For the purposes of document summaries, outlines, and the like, the text of hgroup elements is defined to be the text of the highest ranked h1–h6 element descendant of the hgroup element, if there are any such elements, and the first such element if there are multiple elements with that rank. If there are no such elements, then the text of the hgroup element is the empty string. Other uses, for instance, include areas of a blog where you are listing the header and subtitle for your blog post. You can also use it for book titles and descriptions, for listing doctors in your area and their areas of expertise, or even use it to help replicate the functionality of a table. Let’s take a look at such an example now. On a table we’d have: Doctor Name: Randy McDocterson Doctor Specialty Slapping People So there you can clearly see, in the markup, that we have a doctor named Randy McDoctoerson who’s specialty is slapping people. Now, that is a little odd, but hey – it gets the point across. The “header” tag The header tag represents any group of introductory or navigational aids within a site, or sections of a site. So now that the formal definition has been stated, let’s break it down a bit. We all know what a header is, but to be specific it includes various things on the top of most site. These header areas usually include branding sections, call to action items, and perhaps some navigation. Really it can be used any place that you used to write: you can now write , and get the same semantic markup structure. It is important to note, that the W3C especially remarks that a header element should contain either a set of H1’s, a sections heading individually (h1-h6), or an hgroup element. Header elements can also be used to wrap a section’s table of contents, a search form, or any relevant logos – such as what we mentioned above. Keep in mind though that the header is not sectioning, as in it isn’t a replacement for an all-in-one div either. Rather, it is just a great semantic element to use for specific situations. To note: It can be used in any section’s beginning area, as it doesn’t have to be in the top or beginning of your HTML document. But, that is where it is most typically implemented. The “footer” tag The footer element represents a footer for its nearest nested parent section, and typically contains information about its parents section. The footer tag is very similar to the header tag, but for the opposite section of a page. Often times you will see a footer of a page that contains links again that were in the navigation, and perhaps a logo, or other such things – well all of these can now be housed in a tag. Though a footer is typically used at the end of a website, this tag can represent the end of any section of content (and it doesn’t even have to be at the end of said section to represent it). For instance let’s take a look at this example: Back to index… Lorem Ipsum Some text here. Back to index… The “address” tag The address element represents the contact information for its nearest article or body element. I think the example best describes this tag so let’s dive right in. Dave Raggett , Arnaud Le Hors , contact persons for the W3C HTML Activity I think that very aptly describes the address tag, but the W3C would also like to note that typically the address element would be included along with other information in a footer element. So, this would work specifically for the email or about.me link at bottoms of websites (near the copyright information particularly). You can house that in an address element like so: For more details, contact John Smith . © copyright 2038 Example Corp. And that just about wraps up all the important elements and new tags for HTML5. Keep in mind though, that wasn’t ALL the tags available, but it was some of the more important ones and particularly the ones we will be working with today. HTML5 Template So now that we have learned about HTML5, let’s get into coding our own template. Let’s start with an average document. HTML5 Template Now let’s add the stylesheet link, just for good practice, even though we may not use it. HTML5 Template Now I think it’d be a good time to start setting up our body element with some structure for us to use on other projects. So with that in mind let’s do: HTML5 Template Now, as you can see, we have a bit of a place for our content to go. We have a few designated sections. We have a designated header, footer, and section element within the document – but now let’s add a navigation element as well. HTML5 Template HTML5 Template Pretty standard template Home About HTML5 And there we go, we have added some navigation with a nice unordered list there in the header section. But, wait a minute. What if you have a nice big footer and want those same navigator elements in the footer as well. Well, let’s add it there also. Except, this time we aren’t going to use the tag and instead are going to use a div with the class “footer_navigation”. And while we’re at it, let’s go ahead and fill out our footer section with some content. HTML5 Template HTML5 Template Pretty standard template Home About HTML5 Home About HTML5 By Dain Miller from Madison, WI Email Me Now let’s add in some bits for IE, and other such technicalities. HTML5 Template HTML5 Template Pretty standard template Home About HTML5 Home About HTML5 By Dain Miller from Madison, WI Email Me And there we have it: a basic but complete HTML5 template! Dain Miller is a freelance web designer and developer based out of Madison Wisconsin. He is mainly focused on building products in the online education space, and he has a passion for responsive design. You can follow him on twitter at @_dain . What are your favorite new CSS3 techniques? Or little-used/little-known CSS techniques? Let us know in the comments! 600+ Pixel-Perfect Vector Icons – only $17! Source

 

Flash-centric misconceptions of HTML5

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With close to a decade of experience in web design, I have come across plenty of mistaken beliefs about the latest design tools and technologies; but nothing beats the misconceptions surrounding the use of HTML 5. As developers, we have our own set of misguided beliefs about a certain technology, but as we begin to use that technology we are able to understand what it is all about, its usage, and its scope. Inspired by certain HTML5 requirements that I have come across through the course of time, I wanted to add my two cents to clear the air on certain aspects of HTML5. Most of the misconceptions surrounding HTML5 are because many people think it’s a replacement for Flash. At the outset, I would like to make it clear that this is not an HTML5 vs. Flash post. The truth is that one cannot act as the replacement for the other, so there is no ‘us vs. them’ battle. But, therein is the nub of the misconceptions. The problem is that people believe HTML5 is an enhanced alternative to Flash. All misconceptions are a result of this thinking. Technical overview of HTML 5 The fifth major revision to the language of the World Wide Web can be written in both HTML and XML syntax and has been specially integrated with detailed processing models to facilitate interoperable implementations, and at the same time improve markup for HTML documents and web applications. Its core purpose is to solve cross-platform dependency in the web industry. If all this sounds Greek to you, let’s break down what HTML5 does into a language that is easily understood, without getting into the complex technicalities: HTML5 is an updated markup language that follows XML standards. The idea behind HTML5 is to ensure consistency in the performance and output of web products on all operating systems including iOS, Android, Windows amongst many others. Most common misconceptions regarding HTML are design centric. So, let’s take a look at what is offered by HTML 5 from the design point of view. Built-in audio and video support that helps embed media directly into HTML documents has made the use of outside plugins redundant. HTML5 supports SVG and Canvas elements for animations. Offers designers a canvas element that facilitates rendering 2D graphics in ‘immediate mode’. This means graphical objects are directly rendered to the display. Has been developed for creating interactive applications that are content heavy and are not only user-friendly, but also SEO-friendly. Why do people think HTML5 is a Flash substitute? Flash is a multimedia authoring program that helps deliver interactive and engaging web content that provides a rich web experience to users. It’s a highly popular platform that reaches 99% of desktop and laptop browsers, and offers the same set of technical and visual performance across all browsers. But it has one significant drawback, which is that it is not effectively supported by mobile operating systems such as iOS. For that, there is HTML5. Now look at this statement very closely. Taken at its face value, it might mean that HTML5 is a substitute for Flash, when it comes to developing highly interactive applications for the iOS platform. Scenarios, in which clients have asked their developers to replicate a Flash application in its entirety using HTML5, for a particular mobile device or tablet, are fairly common. The problem is that development platforms and their functionalities should not be taken at their face value. Yes, one of the primary advantages offered by HTML 5 is making it easier to develop applications that work on all mobile phone OS rather than coding a new application for each and every mobile OS. But that doesn’t mean it is a Flash replacement. Popular misconceptions surrounding HTML5 I will just take you through a series of scenarios, which illustrate the misconceptions that people have about HTML 5. Scenario 1 : Convert an existing Flash-based design tool into HTML 5 The Misconception : HTML 5 cannot mask images in a way similar to Flash; its image masking is neither up-to-the-mark nor smooth. More importantly, Flash is quicker and when it comes to specific functionalities such as calculating areas and diameters; Flash is a far better option. Features like Drag/Scale and Zoom also work better in Flash as compared to HTML 5. Scenario 2 : Convert a Flash-based audio library into an HTML5-based tablet compatible library. The Misconception : HTML5 does offer audio and video support but with certain limitations. This Flash based website had almost 800 mp3 files; making it a large scale application. The problem lies in the fact that while Mozilla supports .ogg format and chrome/safari supports the .mp3 format, so if the user’s preferred browser is IE8, the Flash Audio Player becomes a necessity. Limited Extensions available on HTML5 mean that the only solution is to convert all audio files into two formats — mp3 and ogg/wave. To convert 800 files into two file formats isn’t just a time consuming process but also increases server storage. The result is an iPad app that is slow off the blocks. Scenario 3 : Convert a Flash-based website into an HTML5 based website. The Misconception : There is a misconception that HTML5 can handle all sorts of animations, even those of the large scale variety. But it can’t, at least not yet. Its ability to offer 3D effects and run multiple animations at the same time is severely limited. It is the system configuration that determines the performance of the HTML5 animations and so far it’s proven to be a memory eater. There is a good chance that the use of HTML5 will affect website performance if it’s asked to do a lot in terms of animation. Either the website will crash or its speed will be affected. So, in the above case, the HTML 5 website might not be able to offer the same brand of performance. Debunking common HTML 5 misconceptions Firstly, HTML 5 offers a very convenient audio and video solution with some advanced functionalities. All well and good, but what many people ignore is the fact that these audio and video files are played within the browsers. Each browser has built-in plugins for audio and video but different browsers support different versions of the audio and video. Because of this, it becomes difficult to cater to the requirements of all browsers. Secondly, the SVG and Canvas elements have definitely made it easier for developers to implement and integrate 2D animations, but it’s been observed that this animation has a detrimental effect on website performance. Also, HTML5 is proving to be weak when it comes to handling 3D animations, resulting in developers not being able to replicate an entire Flash website with similar efficiency in HTML5. There will always be limitations. Thirdly, you can use HTML5 Rich Internet Applications, but don’t be under the misconception that they can offer you the same brand of efficiency and functionality that Flash/Flex can offer, for example Flash can directly communicate with remote services, whereas HTML5 cannot. Now that you know what HTML5 cannot do, allow me to offer you a small list of things that HTML5 can do and, in fact, can do very well. This can also help reduce the misconceptions in a big way. You can create a single application that works on the iPad, iPhone, Windows etc. In other words, it facilitates platform/device independency — a huge benefit in itself. Helps develop a single website that works on the tablet, mobile, and desktop at the same time. If used well and the way it is supposed to be used, it can improve website performance. Enables the use of audio and videos tags across all platforms, but be prepared to do a bit of hard work. Video, audio and images are all written right into the codes, eliminating the need for any third party software. Quicker load time as compared to its older version because of WebSockets implementation. Offers great vector animations for graphics and light effect, but do not expect the moon, the sun, and the stars when it comes to animations; Flash is way ahead in this aspect. Provides appropriate built-in form validation and type declarations to offer specific keyboard support. HTML 5 definitely has the potential of upstaging Flash in more ways than one, but it is presently a work in progress. Even in its current avatar it helps make mobile phone applications more accessible, and developers are now able to create universal applications for different mobile phones. Additionally, there is no doubt that it offers more flexibility in website creativity. For now, this is enough. What happens in the future is pure hypothesis. Disclaimer: All illustrations used in this article are for explanation purposes only to explain pertinent scenarios. Philip Donald has years of experience in highly creative and elegant web design with the use of latest web technologies. He currently works for PLAVEB® – a leading website development company. Are you already implementing some HTML5 features that aren’t broadly-supported? What features are you most looking forward to adopting? Let us know in the comments! Professional UI Templates for Half Price! – only $25! Source

 

Netflix reveals Android app tests that keep it running on 'around 1000' devices daily

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In a quick peek behind the curtain at what life can be like as an Android developer, Netflix’s Tech Blog has posted details of the testing process for each iteration of its app. According to Netflix’s own stats, after being initially released for just a handful of phones nearly a year ago it now streams to “almost around 1,000″ different devices daily. The situation of building one app for different hardware, software (including CM7 and CM9), screen sizes and and other variations like hardware or software decoding presents many challenges, but the team has filtered down to 14 devices (10 phones, 4 tablets) that give maximum coverage for their daily tests. Add in an HTML5 frontend for the native video video player, and suddenly the staggered rollout across devices starts to make more sense. Hit the source link for more info on how it all gets put together and shaken down through both automated and human testing, while Apple fans can wait for a similar breakdown of the iOS process that’s on the way. Netflix reveals Android app tests that keep it running on ‘around 1000′ devices daily originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 10:34:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds . Permalink | Netflix Tech Blog | Email this | Comments

 

Aereo TV broadcast-streaming service launching today... in NYC

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Despite getting served by a mighty squad of TV networks, Aereo’s keeping its original plans of launching on March 14th. However, the broadcast-streaming service will only be available to folks living in the Big Apple — at least for now. If you’re unfamiliar with the startup’s offerings, $12 a month gets you all major network and local TV channels on any Cupertino-born device ( iPad , iPhone , MacBook Pro , etc) and Roku boxes, though with HTML5 support you can tune in on most anything with Safari as the browser. Meanwhile, native support for the green robot army is said to be “coming soon.” Aeroe’s letting all newcomers in on a 90-day day free trial, so those of you in the land of bridges and tunnels can head over to the source link below. Continue reading Aereo TV broadcast-streaming service launching today… in NYC Aereo TV broadcast-streaming service launching today… in NYC originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 12:19:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds . Permalink | Aereo | Email this | Comments

 

Mozilla Labs Apps set to allow developer submissions for Mozilla Marketplace at MWC

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Been keeping up with Mozilla Labs’ Apps project? Today the company’s focused on developers, with pleasing news if you’ve been looking to get your app’s feet wet in it. In the coming weeks at Mobile World Congress , the Firefox maker will finally open its self-titled Marketplace’s doors for app submissions. If you’re unfamiliar, Mozilla’s been working to create an “operating system- and device-independent market,” based on its own APIs, HTML5 and other open source materials. The end result will be the ability to use said apps without being locked down by your devices and their respective app stores. The store is set to open up for consumer consumption later in the year, so now’s your chance to reserve your software’s spot and name on the list. More details await in press release after the break and at source link below, while you get your code ready. Continue reading Mozilla Labs Apps set to allow developer submissions for Mozilla Marketplace at MWC Mozilla Labs Apps set to allow developer submissions for Mozilla Marketplace at MWC originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:19:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds . Permalink Mobile Burn | The Mozilla Blog | Email this | Comments

 

Aereo puts TV antennas in the cloud, streams OTA broadcasts on the internet

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We’ve all heard about SlingBox , that nifty bit of kit that lets you stream your cable or satellite television to the mobile device of your choice, and now a new company called Aereo aims to provide a similar service for OTA broadcast television. The service costs $12 dollars a month and will launch March 14th, but is only available to folks in New York City through Aereo’s HTML5-powered website. It’ll stream all the major networks, and also offers a cloud-based DVR service on the internet-connected device of your choosing, whether it’s a media streamer , phone , tablet or TV . Aereo’s powered by large devices containing tons of tiny, dime-sized TV antennas connected to the cloud, with individual antennas corresponding to individual users — giving each the ability to tune into one channel at a time. Intrigued as much as we are? Learn all about Aereo’s new service at the source link below. Aereo puts TV antennas in the cloud, streams OTA broadcasts on the internet originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 13:33:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds . Permalink New York Times | Aereo , Aereo blog | Email this | Comments