Where are the Java Applets?

I’ve often asked myself why Java Applets are not more prevelant. HTML is relatively static. Even with CSS, web pages comprised simply of HTML are not very interactive, especially compared to desktop applications.

The developer community is very creative. A variety of technologies, methods, and tools have been utilized to bring life to HTML. Flash, Javascript, AJAX, and SVG are growing in popularity and add a richness and interactivity to web based apps that approaches desktop apps.

Why has the Java applet been left in the dust? I have a few explanations.

First, there is a lack of understanding in the proper usage of the Java applet on a web page. A web page is not a desktop application and the techniques of building Java standalone (desktop) applications do not carry over to web apps. Java user interface components and frameworks have advanced nicely over the years. SWT and Swing can be used to create desktop apps that are as clean, crisp, and visually appealing as native desktop apps. However, SWT and Swing have little use in a Java applet. And that is the approach many Java developers take.

The correct mindset is that of the Flash or browser plugin developer. At their disposal is a rectangular region of the page. They can do whatever they want in that space. To use Swing or SWT there – as it would be used on in a desktop app – is generally inappropriate.

Second, web developers that focus on look and feel are typically not software engineers. Software engineers gravitate towards Java. Designers gravitate towards things like Flash, CSS, and AJAX. While beautiful UIs can be built with Java, it is simply not the tool of the designer. Perhaps JavaFX will address this.

Finally, I believe the use of Java applets are underestimated. There are web sites that utilize Java applets, but they are not easily recognized. Applets don’t look like Swing or SWT apps, so they go unnoticed. These sites are using applets properly. They are not trying to stick a Java desktop-like component into the middle of a web page.

I would like to see Java applets utilized more. From the perspective of a software engineer, I prefer the Java applet. It provides a great deal of control, allows me to do quite a bit (in a rectangular region of a web page), is very robust, and performs extremely well. I generally avoid heavy Javascript because it is unpredictable across browsers. I’ve noticed that sites utilizing heavy Javascript tend to also have performance problems. So, while Java applets have plenty of advantages, it simply may not be the tool of choice.

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