Kyle Simpson, human-centric technologist, discusses the future of the web, concerns about its complexity and the gap between new and experienced developers, data ownership and centralization on the web, and the utilization of local-first web in the crypto space.
The web needs to transition towards a cloud-optional peer-first model, prioritizing data ownership and responsibility, to prevent collapse due to increasing complexity.
Education plays a crucial role in driving the shift towards a peer-first web, emphasizing the value of data ownership and encouraging the development of local-first applications.
Deep dives
A Tale of Two Webs: Exploring the Future of the Web
In this podcast episode, Kyle Simpson discusses his recent conference talk titled 'A Tale of Two Webs' and delves into the future of the web. He emphasizes the need for necessary steps and evolutions that he believes the web needs to go through. Simpson describes his motivation to give the talk, focusing on the importance of what has already happened rather than what could happen. He highlights the dangers of the web collapsing in on itself due to increasing layers of abstraction and complexity. Simpson argues for a shift towards a cloud-optional peer-first web, where data ownership and responsibility are prioritized. He encourages the development of local-first or local-primary applications that keep data on user devices and ensure seamless synchronization. Simpson envisions a future where users regain control over their data and emphasize human-centricity in technology.
The Importance of Education in Shifting Towards a Peer-First Web
Simpson emphasizes the crucial role of education in driving the transition towards a peer-first web. He believes that users need to understand the value of data ownership and responsibility. He encourages developers to build local-first applications that allow users to have control over their data and seamlessly synchronize it between devices. Simpson mentions the importance of creating apps for individual data, such as fitness trackers and habit trackers, to demonstrate the benefits of data ownership. He encourages both hobbyists and businesses to adopt this approach, highlighting the potential cost savings and improved data stewardship. Simpson envisions a future where users have autonomy over their data and businesses prioritize being better stewards of user data.
The Role of Web 2.5 in the Evolution Towards Web 3
Simpson differentiates between web 2.5 and web 3, positioning the former as a necessary precursor to the latter. He acknowledges the potential of web 3 technologies, such as cryptocurrencies and blockchain, but believes they are still too early and lacking in certain aspects. Simpson describes web 2.5 as the evolution that needs to occur before web 3 becomes feasible. He highlights the work being done at Socket Supply, focusing on building a cloud-optional peer-first web framework. While not a web 3 company, Socket Supply contributes to a re-education process where individuals and businesses gradually adopt a local-first mentality. Simpson stresses the importance of practical solutions that prioritize data ownership and control before the leap to a fully decentralized web.
Getting Involved with the Peer-First Web
Simpson encourages listeners to get involved with the peer-first web movement. He recommends downloading the free open-source runtime from Socket Supply's GitHub account and building local-first applications. He highlights the ease and speed with which developers can create apps using the runtime. Simpson also invites individuals to join Socket Supply's Discord channel, which offers a platform for interaction and support among app builders. He suggests following him on LinkedIn for insights and updates on the peer-first web. Additionally, Simpson emphasizes the availability of extensive documentation on the Socket Supply website for further guidance and assistance.
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