JavaScript could soon split into two distinct versions: JS0, optimised for performance, and JSSugar, more advanced. This proposal from Google raises questions about the future of the language and the impacts for developers, notably within the ZeGuild community.
A language in Flux: the Proposal for a Split
JavaScript, the indispensable cornerstone of web development, could soon face a radical change. An engineer at Google has proposed splitting the language into two distinct versions, each with specific goals and functionalities. This evolution could transform how developers approach the language, with profound implications for performance, security and productivity. However, this proposal also raises numerous questions about the future of the JavaScript ecosystem and the challenges it could pose for developers, particularly those in the ZeGuild community.
The idea of dividing JavaScript into two distinct variants was recently put forward by an engineer at Google. This project proposes creating JS0, a lightweight version of the language, focused on performance, security and stability for runtime engines, and JSSugar, a more advanced version, including new syntactic features, which would be compiled into JS0 using specialised tools. This split would aim to resolve some of JavaScript’s most pressing issues. The main motivation behind this proposal lies in the increasing complexity of JavaScript virtual machines, such as V8, which are becoming increasingly difficult to maintain and optimise. With the constant addition of new syntactic features, the language is becoming heavier and potentially less performant. By dividing JavaScript into two versions, the idea would be to maintain the lightness and efficiency of JS0, while allowing JSSugar to include advanced features that meet the needs of modern developers.
The implications for developers: a new dynamic to grasp
Should this proposal be adopted, it could have several major impacts on developers. One of the first consequences would be the increased dependence on compilation tools. Developers wishing to use JSSugar would absolutely have to go through compilation tools to transform their code into JS0. This could add an extra layer of complexity, especially for beginners who will not only have to master the syntax of JSSugar, but also the tools to convert it into JS0. Another notable impact would be the questioning of the popularity of Vanilla JS. Currently, development in “pure” JavaScript, without the use of frameworks or external tools, is widespread. However, with this split, more and more developers could turn to JSSugar to take advantage of the new features, making Vanilla JS less relevant for certain use cases. This could also lead to an additional learning curve. Developers will have to make a strategic choice: focus on JS0 for applications requiring maximum performance, or adopt JSSugar for faster and more modern development. This choice could complicate learning the language for newcomers.
An uncertain future: the prospects for ZeGuild and Beyond
For ZeGuild developers, this proposal to split JavaScript represents both an opportunity and a challenge. The platform, which connects leading technical talent with innovative companies, will likely see developers adapt to this change. However, it will not be an immediate adoption. ZeGuild’s talent, accustomed to navigating complex technical environments, is well placed to master these new tools. However, it is still too early to know if this split will materialise and, if so, how it will translate in terms of demand in the job market. For now, the idea of separating JavaScript into two versions remains at the reflection stage, and it is sparking a lively debate within the community. On one hand, some see this evolution as a way to accelerate the performance of JavaScript engines, by making the engines simpler and more efficient. On the other, voices are being raised to warn against a fragmentation of the language and an increased dependence on compilation tools, which could harm the accessibility of the language for less experienced developers.
We are therefore faced with crucial questions: are we witnessing the dawn of a true revolution, or is it just a simple course correction? If the split of JavaScript into JS0 and JSSugar materialises, it would mark a major turning point in the history of the language. Such an evolution could well meet the needs for performance and simplification for runtime engines, while bringing additional complexity to web development, especially for smaller projects or those that prioritise simplicity.
For developers, the important thing will be to follow these advancement closely and remain agile in the face of these potential changes. At ZeGuild, the talents of our community are always ready to take on the challenges that lie ahead, and this proposal may well be an opportunity to explore new avenues, staying at the forefront of tomorrow’s technologies. It remains to be seen whether this fundamental change will become a reality and how it will redefine the future of JavaScript.
