Why TUIs are back (wiki.alcidesfonseca.com)

Article summary

The article discusses the resurgence of Terminal User Interfaces (TUIs) and their advantages over traditional graphical user interfaces (GUIs). It attributes this trend to the failure of native application development on various platforms, including Windows and macOS, and the rise of cross-platform frameworks like Electron. The article also highlights the benefits of TUIs, such as low latency, ease of automation, and consistent user experience. TUIs are seen as a viable alternative to GUIs, especially for tasks that require focus and efficiency.

Main themes

• TUIs vs GUIs
• Native app development
• Cross-platform frameworks
• User experience
• Efficiency and productivity

What commenters say

• Some developers prefer TUIs because they provide a sense of control and efficiency, even if it's just an illusion.
• The rise of TUIs is a reaction against the bloat and complexity of modern GUI applications.
• TUIs are not inherently better than GUIs, and the choice between them depends on the specific use case and personal preference.
• The main advantage of TUIs is their low latency and instant startup, making them ideal for tasks that require quick feedback.
• GUIs can be just as efficient and keyboard-driven as TUIs, but they often require more effort to set up and customize.
• The distinction between TUIs and GUIs is becoming increasingly blurred, with projects like opencode making it possible to create hybrid interfaces.
• The problem with modern GUI development is not the technology itself, but rather the misaligned incentives that prioritize short-term user engagement over long-term usability.
• Electron and other cross-platform frameworks are not the primary cause of bloat and inefficiency, but rather a symptom of a larger problem of poorly designed software.