LocalFirst: You Keep Using That Word

4 months ago

Local-first software is hard to define and exists on a spectrum rather than being a binary label.
Local-first implies multi-device but is often conflated with offline-first; servers are allowed but should be optional.
True local-first software requires owning your data, implying the need for open-source applications.
Webapps are not ideal for local-first due to their inherent need to 'phone home'.
Multiplayer features are not essential for all local-first apps; some apps benefit from avoiding them.
Solutions for local-first include building native apps, open-source development, and avoiding spinners.
Future challenges include adapting email, chat, and social media to local-first models.

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