Shaping Up the Web: The Impact of Newly Launched Features on Stable and Beta Browsers - November 2023
Browsers are more than tools for accessing the web. They are continuously updated with innovative features that redefine the way we design and experience the web. Let's take a look at some of the most exciting new features that have made their way into our stable and beta browsers in November 2023.
Chrome – new environment blending feature in its WebXR Device API
Firefox – pioneering implementation of CSS Masonry
Opera – launch of its 'Snapshot tool'
Edge – interface with improved accessibility features
For Chrome, Google has astutely added an environment blending feature in its WebXR Device API. This feature is set to primarily benefits augmented reality (AR) experiences, allowing developers to blend virtual objects with the actual physical surroundings of a device's camera in real-time—further adding astounding immersive potential to AR web apps. This is a clever move from the tech giant, considering the burgeoning interest in AR-based applications.
Up next we have Firefox, which has charted its own course, bringin' to the table the implementation of CSS Masonry. This innovative new layout promises to put an end to our struggles with aligning elements in a grid. With the ability to arrange elements both horizontally and vertically without leaving gaps, masonry layout offers design versatility that was previously missing. With this design anomaly fixed, it seems to clear the path for web designers to explore new avenues.
Taking innovation a little further, Opera gave us the 'Snapshot tool'. By enabling designers to capture a webpage and directly edit within the browser without having to open third-party tools, Opera has provided us with a dream feature. We can now effortlessly markup screenshots, add emojis or text overlays—all directly in Opera before sharing the screenshots. Clearly, the Snapshot tool will save time and streamline the content editing process.
Lastly, Edge has done its bit for inclusivity by rolling out an interface with improved accessibility features. These include clearer messaging for screen readers, an improved high-contrast mode, and colour themes to support people with colour blindness. Throughout Web 3.0, the push for accessibility has become a fundamental part of the web design process. It's promising to see Edge make strides in this direction to ensure those with impairments are catered for.
Web Designer's View
As a seasoned web designer from the good ol' Liverpool, I reckon these developments only mean good news for us. We live in an era where browsers are much more than tools for accessing web content. They play a critical role in shaping the possibilities of the web, and the way content is presented and experienced.