667: Jen Simmons on Declarative Web Push, Form Control Styling, & More

Key takeaways

The new contrast-color function in CSS aims to provide computer-generated contrast recommendations for texts based on background colors.
Declarative web push notification support in Safari aims to make it easier for web app developers to engage users without the complexities of service workers.
Form controls can now be styled more uniformly across browsers with the introduction of the 'appearance base' property.
Continuous advancements in typography and layout capabilities highlight the modern web's potential, moving beyond outdated design practices.
Jen Simmons is actively contributing to evolving web standards and practices, emphasizing accessibility and usability across various platforms.

Summary

Introduction and Guest Introduction

In this episode of the ShopTalk Show, hosts Dave Rupert and Chris Collier welcome frequent guest Jen Simmons, a prominent figure in web development known for her work with Apple and the Safari team. The hosts reflect on their podcast journey and celebrate their 667th episode.

WebKit and Safari Updates

The discussion kicks off with updates from the webkit.org blog, highlighting various new articles that are beneficial for web developers. Jen Simmons mentions a growing team dedicated to creating content that helps developers stay informed about new features and enhancements in WebKit and Safari.

CSS Color Contrast and Accessibility

A significant portion of the episode dives into the new color-contrast function in CSS. Simmons expresses her frustrations with the existing WCAG 2.0 contrast algorithm, detailing how it often doesn't provide the expected results. The hosts discuss improvements needed in color contrast tools and the importance of making CSS more accessible.

Declarative Web Push Notifications

Simmons discusses the new declarative web push feature, which simplifies the use of push notifications for web applications. She outlines the progress of its implementation, emphasizing its user privacy considerations and ease of use for developers.

Form Control Styling Enhancements

The conversation continues into the realm of form control styling. Simmons explains the challenges developers face in styling form controls, particularly with standardization across browsers. She introduces the 'appearance base' CSS property that allows developers to style form controls more effectively.

Advanced Features in Typography and Layout

Lastly, Simmons talks about advancements in web typography and layout, including new features that allow for better control over text layout, line-height units, and the complexity of designing something that feels native to the web but accessible to all users.

Show notes

Show Description

Jen Simmons stops by to talk about new CSS and Safari features like Form Control Styling, Declarative Web Push, Typography, contrast-color(), and more.

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Guests

Jen Simmons

Guest's Main URL • Guest's Social

Safari & WebKit Evangelist. Member of the CSS Working Group. Webmaster since 1996.