Google DART, Google’s new web programming language, has now been rolled out within a Chromium tech preview release, enabling developers to get a first look at the new web language. Google DART was first unveiled by Google back in October 2011, and has been designed to ultimately replace JavaScript as the common language of web development on the open web platform.
The new tech preview released by Google now enables you to run your Dart programs directly on the Dart VM in Chromium and avoid a separate compilation step. Google states that the release of Chromium with Dart VM integration, however, is a technology preview and should not be used for day-to-day browsing. Google is still developing DART and plans to eventually include the Dart VM in Chrome. Google explains:
“An attractive feature of Web programming is a rapid development cycle. Reloading the application after the source code has changed takes a fraction of a second. We want to offer you that same experience when using Dart, and today we’re making Mac and Linux binaries available that integrate the Dart VM into Chromium.”
Why Google DART?
Google DART was created to address some of the limitations and challenges faced by developers using JavaScript. JavaScript, while powerful and widely used, has certain performance bottlenecks and complexities that can make large-scale web applications difficult to manage and optimize. DART aims to provide a more structured and efficient language that can scale better for complex applications.
One of the key features of DART is its optional static typing, which allows developers to catch errors early in the development process. This can significantly reduce debugging time and improve code quality. Additionally, DART’s syntax is designed to be familiar to developers who have experience with other programming languages like Java and C#, making it easier to learn and adopt.
Integration and Future Prospects
The integration of the Dart VM into Chromium is a significant step forward for the language. By allowing developers to run Dart code directly in the browser without a separate compilation step, Google is making it easier to test and iterate on web applications. This rapid development cycle is crucial for modern web development, where quick feedback and iteration can lead to more robust and user-friendly applications.
Google’s long-term plan is to integrate the Dart VM into Chrome, making it a native part of the browser. This would provide a seamless experience for developers and users alike, as Dart applications would run more efficiently and with better performance. However, this integration is still in the development phase, and Google advises against using the current tech preview for everyday browsing.
In addition to its performance benefits, DART also offers a rich set of libraries and tools that can help developers build high-quality web applications. The Dart SDK includes a comprehensive standard library, a package manager, and a robust set of development tools, including an integrated development environment (IDE) called DartPad. These tools make it easier for developers to write, test, and deploy Dart applications.
As the web development landscape continues to evolve, languages like DART are poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of the web. By addressing some of the limitations of existing languages and providing a more efficient and scalable alternative, DART has the potential to become a key player in the world of web development.
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