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Web-assembly powered WYSIWYG LaTeX Editor, supporting nearly all LaTeX package (github.com)

741 points by LegitGandalf · 2505 days ago · 114 comments on HN

Article summary

SwiftLaTeX is a web-based WYSIWYG LaTeX editor that uses WebAssembly to run LaTeX engines in browsers, allowing for fast and local computation. The editor supports nearly all LaTeX packages and provides an optional WYSIWYG mode, enabling users to edit PDF output directly. The project is open-source and released under the AGPL-3.0 license. The editor's speed and responsiveness have impressed many users, with some considering it as a potential replacement for existing LaTeX editors.

Main themes

  • WYSIWYG LaTeX editing
  • WebAssembly and browser-based computation
  • LaTeX collaboration and productivity
  • Open-source licensing and community engagement
  • Commercial applications and self-hosting
  • Comparison to existing LaTeX editors
  • Browser compatibility and mobile support
  • Innovation and disruption in LaTeX editing

What commenters say

  • The WYSIWYG LaTeX editor is a game-changer for collaboration and productivity, especially for those who struggle with LaTeX syntax.
  • Some users prefer the traditional plaintext LaTeX workflow and may not need or want a WYSIWYG editor.
  • The editor's speed and responsiveness are impressive, but it may still have some bugs and limitations to be addressed.
  • The project's open-source license and potential for self-hosting make it an attractive option for commercial environments and institutions.
  • The editor's ability to render LaTeX in real-time could be a major advantage over existing solutions like Overleaf.
  • Some users are concerned about the potential for corporations to use the editor without contributing back to the open-source community.
  • The editor's compatibility with different browsers and devices, including mobile, is a significant advantage.
  • The project's potential for innovation and disruption in the LaTeX editing space is substantial, but it may face challenges in gaining widespread adoption.