blog/javascript-free-open-source/

[giscus[bot]]

blog/javascript-free-open-source/

Codename One's JavaScript port is now open source, available on every plan, and buildable locally without an account. ParparVM is the default, while TeaVM remains available through a build hint.

https://www.codenameone.com/blog/javascript-free-open-source/

[jsfan3]

This is a huge revolution! Honestly, I’ve always hoped the JavaScript port would be free and open source.

You’re doing an incredible job modernizing Codename One and solving the big and small problems that have discouraged its adoption. These are longstanding issues, starting with the cost. Now, after several years without any substantial innovations, things are truly changing.

However, I think there’s a fundamental cultural issue. In my experience here in Italy, not a single IT company hires programmers who know Codename One. Unfortunately, the same technology stacks are always in demand, and candidates who use unfamiliar solutions are excluded from the selection process. Added to this is a general crisis caused by generative AI.

Similar problems exist elsewhere in the world as well. Companies are reluctant to innovate or move away from what they already know. At least, that has been my experience.

That’s why raising awareness of Codename One isn’t easy. However, now that all targets are free, things could change significantly because this makes the entire framework accessible to small-scale developers, enthusiasts, and open-source software publishers.

[shai-almog]

I agree, the big problem is crossing that chasm which is a big challenge for a smaller company/tool competing with Google/Facebook.

We have several ideas on how to do it and LLMs are actually a huge benefit for us since they're a disruptor that makes framework migration easier.

[ddyer0]

It works both ways. I had fun working out the GC issues, and my code that used to be "good enough" is now much better.