The Enduring Legacy of Blue Loading GIFs: SMIL and Microsoft Edge

In the ever-evolving world of web development, technologies come and go, but some remain steadfast in their utility. One such example is SMIL (Synchronized Multimedia Integration Language), a markup language that has been around since the 1990s. Despite being deprecated by Chrome several years ago, SMIL continues to find relevance in modern browsers, including Microsoft Edge.

With Microsoft Edge's recent switch to the Chromium engine, it's natural to wonder whether SMIL is still supported. The answer is yes – SMIL remains a viable option for animating graphics and loading animations, including the humble blue loading GIF. In this article, we'll delve into the world of SMIL, its benefits, and how it can be used in Microsoft Edge.

SMIL's unique features set it apart from CSS Animation, making it an attractive choice for developers seeking more control over their animations. Unlike CSS Animation, which relies heavily on JavaScript, SMIL is a markup language that allows developers to define animations using a declarative syntax. This approach makes it easier to create complex animations with precise timing and synchronization.

One popular use case for SMIL is animating SVG spinners, such as the blue loading GIF. By leveraging SMIL's capabilities, developers can create visually appealing and interactive animations that enhance user experience. Microsoft Edge, in particular, supports SMIL through its SVG renderer, making it an ideal choice for animating SVG graphics.

While Chrome initially deprecated SMIL several years ago, the decision was later suspended. This means that SMIL is still supported in the latest versions of Chrome, as well as other modern browsers like Firefox and Safari. Microsoft Edge, having adopted the Chromium engine, also supports SMIL out of the box.

In terms of usage, you can apply SMIL to a tag or use it as a background-image CSS style. The latter approach is particularly useful for creating loading animations that blend seamlessly into your website's design. By incorporating SMIL into your project, you can add a touch of interactivity and visual flair that sets your website apart from the competition.

In conclusion, while SMIL may not be as trendy as some newer technologies, its enduring legacy in web development is undeniable. With Microsoft Edge's support for SMIL, developers now have access to a powerful toolset for creating complex animations that engage users and enhance overall user experience. Whether you're looking to create a simple blue loading GIF or something more elaborate, SMIL is an excellent choice for any project requiring animation and interactivity.

Blue loading gif transparent