Mobile developers seeking to unleash the full potential of the jQuery framework are a step closer to fulfillment, with the Alpha release of jQuery Mobile (www.jquerymobile.com).
According to its backers, the jQuery Mobile touch-optimized web framework for Smartphones and tablets offers a unified user interface system across all popular mobile device platforms, built on the rock-solid jQuery and jQuery UI foundation. Its lightweight code is built with progressive enhancement, and has a flexible, easily CSS3-themeable design.
Our aim is to provide tools to build dynamic touch interfaces that will adapt gracefully to a range of device form factors.
“jQuery mobile framework takes the ‘write less, do more’ mantra to the next level,” states the jQuery website. “Instead of writing unique apps for each mobile device or OS, the jQuery mobile framework will allow you to design a single highly branded and customized web application that will work on all popular smartphone and tablet platforms.”
“Our aim is to provide tools to build dynamic touch interfaces that will adapt gracefully to a range of device form factors,” the site continues. “The system will include both layouts (lists, detail panes, overlays) and a rich set of form controls and UI widgets (toggles, sliders, tabs).”
While some experienced operators may balk at production-level use of such an “unfinished” work, forward-looking digital content providers will want to begin gaining experience with this platform as soon as possible, in an attempt to gain a competitive edge. Another benefit for designers is the early look at what the user interface and experience of the future will look and function like.
