View source for Feature detection (web development)

'''Feature detection''' (also '''feature testing''') is a technique used in [[web development]] for handling differences between runtime environments (typically [[web browsers]] or [[user agents]]), by programmatically testing for clues that the environment may or may not offer certain functionality.

== Description ==

This information is then used to make the application adapt in some way to suit the environment: to make use of certain [[APIs]], or tailor for a better user experience.

Its proponents claim it is more reliable and future-proof than other techniques like user agent sniffing and browser-specific [[CSS hacks]].

== Cross-browser compatibility == 

Feature detection is used in [[cross-browser compatibility]] libraries, such as [[Modernizr]].

== See also ==

* [[Cross-browser compatibility]]
* [[Progressive enhancement]]
* [[Modernizr]]
* [[Web browser]]
* [[Web design]]
* [[Web development]]

== External links ==

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feature_detection_(web_development) Feature detection (web development)] @ Wikipedia

[[Category:Cross-browser compatibility]]
[[Category:Web design]]
[[Category:Web design and development]]