I read a lot of articles about programming and technology as a way of keeping up with the industry and expanding my knowledge. Here are some articles I read in 2023 that I recommend reading.
Tech industry #
Tweeting for 10,000 years ended after 4 years, 8 months #
This article is an interesting read on software longevity, with a humorously short outcome. It shows the risks of relying on private platforms and shows how fragile software is compared to other forms of engineering.
Stop using Brave browser #
Here is a must-read for those considering using Brave. I support using whatever software works best for you, but I consider Brave to be untrustworthy due to the issues highlighted in this article.
Programming #
Selling your extension #
A couple of years ago, I released a browser extension called Renewed Tab to the Firefox and Chrome stores. Since then, I’ve been getting a lot of emails about selling my extension or adding spyware to it. These spammers all have the same goal - to steal the search and browsing data of my users, and sell it on to data brokers.
I would never sell out my users, but not every browser extension developer is the same. My extension only had a few hundred installs when I first started receiving emails, so I’m sure the vast majority of extension developers will be receiving these “offers”.
Self-closing tags (<img />) #
I found this article interesting as it taught me something new about HTML.
What they don’t tell you when you translate your app #
Software internationalisation is super important for the accessibility and reach of your software. Even though I do not speak multiple languages, I try to support translation in my applications.
Work #
On consultancies #
I’ve been working at consultancies and software houses since I graduated. Whilst I haven’t necessarily experienced all these things, I found this article to be an interesting read.
Blogging #
Seven reasons why I don’t write #
I found this article quite influential in changing how I think about blogging. I try to write from my perspective and experiences, without worrying if it’s been said before. I also try to write what I want to write, rather than trying to go viral.
What happened to blogging for the hell of it #
The Internet sometimes feels like one grift after another. This article presents an argument against that. You don’t need to blog to boost vanity metrics or to increase your value to employers. Just blog for the hell of it.
Misc #
Mechanical Watch #
I love explorables - interactive articles that explain how something works. Here is a great one about how mechanical watches work.
Conclusion #
I hope you found some articles worth reading. What were your favourite reads last year? Feel free to send article suggestions you think I might like.
Cover Image © Engin Akyurt
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