At the recent Google I/O event, a new concept called Baseline was unveiled by Rachel Andrew, aimed at helping developers visualize browser support for various features. The idea is to simplify the understanding of which browsers support certain features better. The concept revolves around a simplified browser support chart, with a focus on Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari. Edge, even though it has similar support to Chrome, still deserves a place in the chart due to its contributions to the web platform.
The Baseline chart uses a simple green checkmark or red X to indicate whether a feature is supported by a particular browser. This approach is possible due to the evergreen nature of modern browsers, where updates are automatically delivered without manual intervention. While this simplified approach is convenient, it lacks the nuance required for more complex features like View Transitions. The three-answer game of yes, yes with polyfills, or no is essential for understanding feature readiness.
One issue with Baseline is making sure users are looking at the correct information. For example, a blog post on Style Queries in CSS might show all green in the Baseline chart, but in reality, not all features are fully supported. This discrepancy highlights the importance of clear and accurate information in the Baseline chart.
A promising aspect of Baseline is the plan to provide widgets for embedding in articles or libraries. This feature can help developers quickly assess browser support for various features. This could be a valuable tool akin to the popular Can I Use site, but with a more straightforward and official way to embed browser support charts.
One suggestion to further improve Baseline is the creation of a Web Component for easy integration. This would allow developers to quickly add support indicators to their content, enhancing user experience and making it easier to determine compatibility at a glance.
In conclusion, Baseline has the potential to simplify the understanding of browser support for developers. With the right enhancements and features, it could become a valuable resource for navigating the ever-evolving landscape of web development.