Jelly UI: Tactile Web Components with Soft-Body Physics

Added
Article: Very PositiveCommunity: NeutralMixed

Jelly UI is a dependency-free library of 40 Web Components that uses soft-body physics to create tactile user interfaces. It features built-in accessibility with WCAG AA compliance, dark mode, and RTL support, all accessible via a single script tag. The library provides a comprehensive suite of customizable elements for building responsive and engaging web applications.

Key Points

  • Jelly UI utilizes soft-body physics to create a unique, tactile aesthetic for web interfaces.
  • The library is entirely dependency-free and consists of 40 customizable custom elements.
  • Accessibility and internationalization are core features, including WCAG AA compliance and RTL support.
  • Implementation is streamlined through a single script tag and standard Web Component syntax.
  • A wide variety of components are available, covering forms, navigation, feedback, and layout needs.

Sentiment

Mixed, with appreciation for the creative novelty but significant skepticism regarding performance and practical usability.

In Agreement

  • The library is aesthetically pleasing and described as 'cute' or 'absolute bliss.'
  • It has clear utility for specific creative projects, games, or niche interfaces.
  • The library's adherence to 'prefers-reduced-motion' settings is a well-implemented and necessary feature.
  • The tactile, soft-body concept is a fun and novel approach to UI design.

Opposed

  • Performance is an issue, with reports of low FPS and degraded scrolling on Chrome/MacBook Pro.
  • The demo site uses frustrating scrolljacking and input lockouts that hinder navigation.
  • The 'wiggly membrane' effect on inputs is distracting, particularly when trying to type.
  • The implementation of 'physics' is questioned, with some users unable to identify actual physics-based behavior.
  • General preference for static, clean UIs over animated novelty for productivity-focused web browsing.
Jelly UI: Tactile Web Components with Soft-Body Physics | TD Stuff