Has Browser Compatibility for Web Pages Deteriorated Over the Last Few Years?

As of 2020, there seems to be a growing consensus that web pages are breaking more frequently across different browsers. This concern has led many to wonder whether this is an actual trend or simply a perceived decline in compatibility. The issue of browser compatibility has become increasingly complex over the years, especially with the evolution of mobile devices and the proliferation of different browser frameworks.

Breaking Websites in Internet Explorer

One of the most significant contributing factors to this problem is the decline in Internet Explorer usage. Many web pages are simply not tested in Microsoft Edge, leading to breakages. Meanwhile, while Firefox and Google Chrome remain widely used, compatibility issues still arise when pages are not designed to work across all devices and browser environments.

The Shift in Web Development Practices

The shift towards mobile web development has exacerbated the issue. Between 2004 and 2012, web developers primarily focused on Internet Explorer compatibility, which served more than 90% of the browsing population. However, with the rise of alternative browsers and the decline of Internet Explorer, ensuring universal compatibility has become much more challenging.

Modern Frameworks and JavaScript

Another significant factor is the increasing use of complex frameworks such as Angular, React, and Vuex. These frameworks often leverage newer JavaScript functions that may not be supported by all browsers. For example, Edge, Firefox, Chrome, and Safari all have different levels of support for these modern features, leading to potential incompatibilities. Additionally, HTML and CSS incompatibilities still exist, particularly when supporting older browser versions. While these issues are becoming less common, they can still pose challenges for web developers.

Conclusion and Future Trends

In conclusion, the decline in browser compatibility appears to be a real and ongoing issue. As the web continues to evolve, it is crucial for web developers to stay up-to-date with the latest standards and supporting frameworks to ensure their sites work seamlessly across all modern browsers. While progress is being made to address these challenges, it remains a significant concern for the web development community.