JSON Canvas – An open file format for infinite canvas data (jsoncanvas.org)

Article summary

JSON Canvas is an open file format for infinite canvas data, designed to provide longevity, readability, interoperability, and extensibility to data created with infinite canvas apps. The format is easy to parse and gives users ownership over their data. JSON Canvas was originally created for Obsidian and can be implemented freely as an import, export, and storage format for any app or tool. The format is open source under the MIT license.

Main themes

• Infinite Canvas
• Open File Format
• Interoperability
• Data Ownership
• JSON Canvas Specification

What commenters say

• The JSON Canvas format is too opinionated and may not be suitable for all types of infinite canvas apps.
• A baseline spec for infinite canvas data would be useful, allowing for adapters to translate metadata across providers.
• The format's simplicity is refreshing, but it may not be sufficient for complex use cases, such as graphics or resource-intensive applications.
• The decision to release JSON Canvas as an open spec without consulting other developers may be seen as either a positive step towards interoperability or a premature move that may lead to compatibility issues.
• The format's design is similar to Markdown, with an informal spec approach that may lead to a de facto standard, but also raises concerns about standardization and compatibility.
• The use of numeric constants for colors may not be the best approach, and string literals or a more flexible color system might be preferable.
• The format's limitations, such as the lack of support for certain features or the simplicity of the spec, may be intentional, allowing for future development and community feedback.
• The release of JSON Canvas as a standalone spec implies a commitment to stability and interoperability, which may be beneficial for third-party developers and users.