The momentum behind HTML5 is building rapidly. Yes, there are a few big names like Apple that are driving this popularity, but there is absolutely no doubt that HTML5 brings plenty of benefits to the table and goes a long way in improving the functional quality of web applications.

Let’s take a look at how HTML5 is improving web applications.

Enhanced typography and font customization

The adoption of web fonts such as Web Open Font Format (WOFF), Google Web Font API, and Typekit etc. in HTML5 means developers now have the reins of the app text in their own hands. They can now determine how the text will look and ensure that they are able to optimize the expression of this text and control it as they see fit. With the HTML5 Web Design framework, the reliance of developers on images and Flash implementation is slowly but surely going down, which means the design & development team can now focus on text that not only looks good, but also works well with search engines.

Consistent Specifications

One of the biggest advantages offered by HTML5 is that it has made it easier to develop a web application that is compatible with numerous browsers. This is because it offers browser vendors a consistent set of specifications, right to their minutest detail, which in turn also ensures that the implementation of the web application across all browsers remains the same.

Enhanced Graphical Interactivity

With its integrated canvas elements, HTML5 helps build better and more interactive images with help of exhaustive graphics libraries. Earlier, the JavaScript layer couldn’t draw picture with the available data, but with the use of HTML5, this has become possible. The focus of developers has shifted from textual to more creative solutions.

Unified Environment

Developers can make better web apps as HTML doesn’t require the use of a collection of languages and just one language – JavaScript will suffice. Even in the case of the data model, it’s just XML and Document Object Model that is used. Also, when it comes to binding graphics, video, audio and the text, developers can use only one set of rules, which is CSS to do the same. With its unified standards, developers no longer need to use a different set of tools in a web application.

One of the core ideas behind HTML5 and all that it brings to the table is not just making things easier for developers and producing advanced web applications, but also to bring about a convergence of web and desktop applications. HTML5 seeks to get rid of developers’ dependence on third party plugins and extensions. For now, this is a work in progress, but there is no doubt that with the various benefits of HTML5, there is going to be a revolutionary change in not only the way web applications are developed but also in the web applications themselves.