What is Webkit and How Can I Contribute?

What is Webkit and How Can I Contribute?
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Who Uses WebKit?

WebKit is an open source layout engine designed by the WebKit Foundation and used by operating systems, web browsers, email-clients, and mobile phones. Some of the most well-known names are:

  • Abrowse
  • Android
  • Google Chrome
  • iCab
  • Konqueror
  • Midori
  • OmniWeb
  • Safari
  • Shiira
  • Sunrise

Here is a brief overview of what you can do with the WebKit Open Source Project. For the latest information, visit their website. If you are new to WebKit and would like to know more before committing your time to its projects, they offer the Surfin’ Safari Blog, Planet WebKit, Project Goals, Keeping in Touch, and Trac options. These options have an overload of information concerning the engine.

Working with Code

This section offers all of the resources needed to get started and running with WebKit. If you are a Mac OS or Windows user, programmer or developer, WebKit provides instructions to make your experience stress-free. In addition to getting and installing the code, you can also build, run, and debug WebKit with the information provided here. The protocol for making contribution and security policies are also listed.

Documentation

Offers more resources and tools to help with using WebKit. The most used are WebKit’s Wiki and Code Style Guidelines. Also available are Demos, the Web Inspector, and Web Developer Resources.

Testing

This section speaks for itself. In addition to helping with leaks and regressions, you can also write new tests and request crash logs whenever needed.

Bugs

This section provides an in-depth look at the protocol for reporting bugs, bug prioritization, and the bug life cycle. WebKit is known for its strict security measures.

Looking for a Project?

WebKit offers plenty of opportunities to get your hands dirty. They are currently looking for contributors to help with documentation, website compatibility, portability, and performance. Some of the more specific programs to work with are CSS, DOM, MathML, Plug-ins, JavaScript, HTML/XHTML, and SVG.

Conclusion

Working with WebKit is a great idea for any programmer or developer looking for meaningful experience in their field. It is a fast and safe layout engine that will only become better in the future. Why not be a part of it?

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