Eloquent JavaScript VS Briar

• Comprehensive Learning Resource
  Eloquent JavaScript covers a wide range of topics, from basic syntax to advanced concepts like asynchronous programming and web development. This depth makes it a valuable resource for both beginners and advanced programmers.
• Interactive Code Examples
  The book contains numerous interactive code examples that allow readers to see the effects of their code in real-time. This hands-on approach reinforces learning and helps solidify concepts.
• Free Online Access
  Eloquent JavaScript is available for free online, making it accessible to anyone with an internet connection. This allows learners from around the world to benefit from its content without financial barriers.
• Engaging Writing Style
  The author, Marijn Haverbeke, writes in an engaging and clear style, making complex topics more understandable and keeping readers interested.
• Good Balance of Theory and Practice
  The book strikes a good balance between theoretical explanations and practical exercises, allowing readers to apply what they have learned immediately.

Possible disadvantages

• Steep Learning Curve
  Some readers may find the book's progression to be rapid, especially if they are complete beginners. The book quickly moves from basic to more complex topics, which can be overwhelming.
• Lacks Visual Aids
  While the text is clear and the code examples are helpful, the book could benefit from more visual aids like diagrams and illustrations to explain complex concepts.
• Assumes Some Prior Knowledge
  Although it's aimed at beginners, the book sometimes assumes that readers have some prior programming experience, which can make it less accessible to absolute novices.
• Limited Coverage of Latest ES Features
  The book may not cover some of the latest features and best practices introduced in newer versions of JavaScript (e.g., ES2019 and beyond), meaning readers might need to supplement their learning with additional resources.
• Web Development Sections Could Be More Detailed
  While the book does touch on web development, the sections on this topic are not as in-depth as some readers might hope. Those looking to get a more thorough grounding in web development may need to consult other sources.

• Privacy-focused
  Briar prioritizes user privacy by encrypting all messages end-to-end, ensuring that only the intended recipients can read the content.
• Decentralized
  The app operates in a decentralized manner, meaning it doesn't rely on a central server, which reduces the risk of censorship and server-based attacks.
• Peer-to-peer Communication
  Briar uses peer-to-peer communication methods, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and the internet, enabling connectivity even without a central network or in environments with internet censorship.
• Open-source
  Briar is open-source software, allowing anyone to inspect, modify, and contribute to its codebase, which helps with transparency and trust in the platform.
• Offline Messaging
  Briar supports offline messaging via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi direct, which is particularly useful in regions with limited internet access.

Possible disadvantages

• Limited User Base
  Due to its niche focus on privacy and security, Briar may have a smaller user base compared to more mainstream messaging apps, potentially limiting its network effects.
• Resource Intensive
  The app can be resource-intensive, consuming more battery and data than traditional messaging apps due to its encryption and peer-to-peer communication methods.
• Lack of Features
  Briar may lack some of the features found in popular messaging apps, such as media-rich messages, stickers, or integrated services, which might not appeal to all users.
• Learning Curve
  New users may find the app less intuitive and harder to use compared to mainstream messaging apps, potentially creating a barrier to entry.
• Android-only
  As of now, Briar is limited to Android devices, which excludes users on other platforms like iOS and may restrict its overall user adoption.

Eloquent JavaScript A Modern Introduction to Programming 3rd Edition by Marijn Haverbeke review

More videos

Briar for Android

More videos

• My Azure Cloud Resume Challenge Journey

  If you haven’t read Eloquent JavaScript , go check it out. It’s one of my all-time favourite programming books — hands down. - Source: dev.to / about 1 year ago

• How do we learn to get good at programming

  Videos, blogs, text-based teachings, YouTube project-based learning, books, and the like are all examples of various methods and mediums of acquiring skills, especially in the software engineering industry. As I continue to navigate... - Source: dev.to / almost 2 years ago

• Ask HN: Changing my mind about JavaScript

  Seconded. I won't recommend it and no one I know has recommended it for a decade. It's hard for someone who doesn't know JS to know which parts has changed and is no longer the way to do things. https://github.com/getify/You-Dont-Know-JS... - Source: Hacker News / about 2 years ago

View more

• Government orders GitHub to remove Bluetooth-based chat app Bitchat: Jack Dorsey

  > Jack Dorsey is now using his clout to share about this app and bring some light on the situation Indian attempts at censorship is probably the best thing to ever happen to Bitchat: free advertising for a vibcoded and questionably... - Source: Hacker News / 3 months ago

• SignalApp UI Home Screen but with Flutter

  Anyway, copying and reproducing is a great way to learn. It also train the mind to decompose every applications in small pieces. The same could have been done for Briar, SimpleX or Telegram applications, all of them are open-source and... - Source: dev.to / 4 months ago

• A decentralized peer-to-peer messaging application that operates over Bluetooth

  I don't know. I do not like Jack Dorey's involvement. Not a big fan of his. I'd rather use Briar (https://briarproject.org/). - Source: Hacker News / 9 months ago

View more