SVGs that feel like GIFs (koaning.io)

Article summary

The article discusses the use of animated SVGs, which can be used to create moving images similar to GIFs, but with the advantage of being supported in GitHub README files. The process of creating these animations involves using asciinema and svg-term-cli tools. The resulting SVGs can be embedded directly into README files without the need for external hosting. This technique leverages the built-in animation capabilities of the SVG format.

Main themes

• animated SVGs
• GitHub README support
• security risks
• video vs SVG
• responsive design
• browser support
• animation capabilities

What commenters say

• Some commenters find the idea of animated SVGs to be surprising and potentially powerful, while others are concerned about potential security risks.
• The use of animated SVGs may be preferable to videos for certain types of content, such as terminal captures, due to their smaller file size and ability to be embedded directly into README files.
• Others argue that videos are still a better choice for many use cases, due to their ability to be controlled with play/pause buttons and sliders.
• There is disagreement about whether GitHub 'supports' animated SVGs, with some arguing that it is the browser's responsibility to render the image, while others point out that GitHub may sanitize or replace externally linked images for security reasons.
• Some commenters note that animated SVGs can be used to create interactive and dynamic content, such as games and simulations, without the need for JavaScript.
• Others mention that SVGs can be made responsive to user preferences, such as dark mode or screen size, in ways that videos cannot.
• The use of animated SVGs raises questions about the potential for abuse, such as creating malicious animations that exploit browser vulnerabilities.