The adoption of state-of-the-art technology is transforming the UK’s digital economy before our very eyes. In fact, widespread use of forward-thinking technologies such as HTML5 and artificial intelligence (AI) could yield upwards of £520 billion for the UK economy by the turn of the next decade, with the UK projected to become a tech “superpower” by 2028.
That’s according to a study from independent consultants, Strand Partners, who were commissioned by Amazon Web Services (AWS) to investigate the economic impact of digital technologies and the likelihood of unlocking Britain’s digital potential.
In fact, there are many markets within the UK’s digital economy that are already getting a leg up thanks to versatile and powerful technologies such as HTML5. Below, we’ll revisit three sectors benefiting from enhanced capabilities and consistent user experiences.
Cross-platform iGaming
HTML5 technology has transformed the way iGamers engage with online casino sites and games. With its cross-platform compatibility and support for multimedia content, HTML5 has enabled the development of immersive and visually stunning games that can be played seamlessly on desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets alike.
This has led to a surge in popularity for HTML5-powered, mobile-first casino games, including slots, table games, and live dealer games, as players seek more convenient and accessible iGaming experiences. HTML5 has also breathed new life into some of the more legacy, traditional-looking slots. Although the animations still have a classic appearance, when users play Rainbow Jackpots online and other retro-style Irish-themed slots they are fully optimised for each individual’s gaming device and screen size.
Interactive eLearning content
Similarly, HTML5 has revolutionised the eLearning industry, giving educators and learners alike powerful tools for creating and accessing educational content online. Using HTML5, eLearning portals are now able to deliver high-resolution courses and presentations that aren’t resource-hungry like those which used to be powered by the defunct Adobe Flash plugin. They can even host virtual classrooms that engage learners on any device, facilitating active learning experiences on any device.
From corporate training programs to online courses and tutorials, HTML5 has made learning more accessible, flexible and, most importantly, engaging for students of all ages and backgrounds.
Rich digital advertising
Beyond iGaming and eLearning, the digital advertising sector has also been positively impacted by the rise of HTML5. It’s enabled the creation of rich media ads, interactive banners and immersive brand experiences which are no longer a lag on browsing speeds or user experiences. All of which helps digital advertising campaigns to achieve their desired purpose – to drive engagement.
HTML5’s support for animation, video and interactive has seen it become the go-to technology for designing compelling and dynamic advertising campaigns across desktop and mobile devices.
HTML5 has also played an integral role in the development of browser-based web applications. Its robust feature set, including support for offline storage, geolocation and device orientation, has empowered developers to design and build cross-platform applications that deliver a seamless user experience, without the need to download and install native apps.
This alone has fuelled the growth of web-based productivity tools, allowing users to interact with cloud-based web apps and do their best work wherever and whenever they want.
Despite rumours of an HTML6 release being in the offing, the reality is that there won’t be another HTML update in the traditional sense. Instead, the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), the organisation responsible for overseeing HTML standards, has since adopted a ‘living standard’ approach to HTML5. This means HTML5 will continue to live on and evolve in real time through a working document known as the HTML Living Standard.
HTML5 and cross-platform development will continue to play a central role in shaping the future of the 24/7-connected, digital economy; driving innovation and empowering collaboration in new and exciting ways.
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