Syntax - Tasty Web Development Treats

Wes and Scott evaluate their 2025 web development predictions, revealing surprising outcomes in AI, frameworks, and tooling. They discuss the rollout of the Temporal API and the rise of on-device AI, while debating the true usefulness of generative media tools. Exciting developments include the resurgence of vanilla CSS, the adoption of web components, and advancements in text-to-UI tech. They also explore the potential of AI-integrated browsers and the changing landscape of React, highlighting the impact of recent innovations.

Scott and Wes explore the 24 new web APIs that became available in 2025, highlighting the most impactful features. They dive into same-document view transitions for SPAs and the new CSS abs() function for complex calculations. The conversation covers the Popover API's role in tooltip positioning and the benefits of base64 to Uint8Array for better binary data handling. They also discuss how Promise.try enhances synchronous functions in promise chains and the performance considerations of content-visibility for rendering control.

This week, the hosts dive into the impact of keyboard shortcuts on productivity and introduce the Error Lens extension for a cleaner coding experience. They debate the relevance of tech stack choice in the AI era and warn against using markdown as a CMS, suggesting more effective alternatives. The discussion also explores the trade-offs of relocating for work and helpful strategies for managing AI-generated commits. Lastly, they share tips for securely backing up sensitive files and recommend some cool tech picks!

Join Matt Brown, a YouTuber and security consultant specializing in hardware and IoT penetration testing, as he dives into the fascinating world of hacking everyday devices. He reveals his curiosity-driven journey and shares methods for extracting firmware and cracking passwords. Legal boundaries and ethics of hacking are discussed, along with entertaining stories of his wild hacks, like escaping in-flight displays. Plus, Matt offers insights on using logic analyzers and smart home security practices, bringing a captivating mix of tech and storytelling.

Wes and Scott dive into the world of home servers, exploring the benefits of backups and control over your data. They share insights on Synology setups and compare SSDs vs HDDs for optimal performance. The duo discusses popular apps like Home Assistant and Jellyfin and strategies for safely exposing services using Cloudflare Tunnels. They also examine the trade-offs between VMs and containers and weigh the costs of different hardware options. Tune in for a mix of tech insights and practical tips for setting up your own home server!

Scott and CJ dive into how developers can navigate the fast-paced tech landscape without feeling overwhelmed. They emphasize understanding the purpose behind new tools before jumping in. The hosts debunk the myth of rigid learning styles, suggesting a hands-on approach with projects that excite you. They also discuss the importance of mastering fundamentals and using AI thoughtfully as a learning aid. Plus, practical tips on cutting through tech hype and improving problem-solving skills make this discussion a must-listen!

Dive into the fascinating world of web creativity! Discover Strudel, where DJs code live music visuals, and explore Hydra, offering mesmerizing audio-reactive visuals. Unleash your artistic flair with p5.js and uncover the magic of ShaderToy's pixel-perfect graphics. Learn about projection mapping with MadMapper and how TouchDesigner creates interactive installations. Plus, find out how to choreograph synchronized holiday light shows with xLights. It's a treasure trove of digital innovation!

Join Iwo Plaza, the creator of TypeGPU, as he discusses how WebGPU is revolutionizing web graphics. He delves into the challenges of shader languages and how TypeGPU simplifies shader authoring with a TypeScript wrapper. Iwo shares insights on low-level WebGPU frustrations, making GPU-CPU data exchange seamless with Zod-like schemas, and the exciting future of GPU-powered AI in browsers. Plus, hear about the community's reception of projects like Jelly Shader and TypeGPU's potential integration with Three.js!

The annual Holiday Gift Guide is packed with exciting recommendations. 3D printers and multi-tools shine as must-haves for tech lovers. Pet owners will appreciate versatile dog leashes and the ease of automated lighting systems. For gadget lovers, there's a compact pancake lens and powerful chargers. The hosts even dive into practical office items like heated vests and ergonomic mice. Food enthusiasts can discover tasty treats like edamame and hot sauces. Gifts range from smart home devices to cozy blankets, ensuring something for everyone!

In this lively discussion, Scott and Wes quiz each other on obscure CSS trivia. They delve into unique shape functions and explain CSS Scroll Snap types. The duo breaks down concepts like ray() for drawing lines and xywh() for rectangular paths. They explore CSS Paint history and discuss the quirks of print-color-adjust. Listeners will also discover the utility of cross-fade() and the benefits of using @property in CSS. Lastly, they cover all 10 CSS Filter Functions and fascinating font properties.