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Matt Miller
Matt Miller

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Web Serial API – Bringing Serial Communication to the Web

Introduction

The Web Serial API allows web applications to communicate with serial devices such as microcontrollers, Arduinos, and other hardware directly from the browser.

Photo by Photo By: Kaboompics.com

How Web Serial API Works

  1. Device Connection – A user selects a serial device through the browser prompt.
  2. Data Exchange – Once access is granted, the application can send and receive data over a serial connection.

Practical Use Case: Flashing Microcontrollers via the Browser

Developers can use Web Serial API to create web-based tools for flashing firmware onto devices like Arduino or ESP32 without needing desktop software.

Browser Support

Web Serial API is available in Chrome 89+ across desktop platforms but not supported in Firefox or Safari.

🔗 Check browser support on Can I Use

Advantages of Web Serial API

  • Eliminates the need for standalone serial software
  • Enables real-time monitoring of hardware via web interfaces
  • Works on multiple platforms with a consistent API

💡 Conclusion: The Web Serial API enhances the web’s ability to interact with hardware, making it an essential tool for IoT and embedded development.


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