I turned Markdown into a protocol for generative UI

8 hours ago

Markdown is proposed as a protocol for agentic UI, combining text, executable code, and data in a single stream.
Three core ideas underpin the prototype: Markdown as protocol, streaming execution, and a `mount()` primitive for reactive UIs.
The protocol uses three block types: Text (plain markdown), Code fence (executable code), and Data fence (streams data into UI).
Feedback loop involves LLM generating markdown with code blocks, executing code incrementally, and feeding output back to the LLM.
Streaming execution allows statements to execute as they are generated, improving responsiveness.
Four data flow patterns are identified: Client → Server (forms), Server → Client (live updates), LLM → Client (streaming), and Client → Server (callbacks).
A slot mechanism enables complex UIs by mounting skeleton interfaces first and filling sections later.
Security considerations are noted, with the assumption that security is reasonably solved for the prototype's purposes.
The prototype leverages existing LLM knowledge of markdown, TypeScript, and React, optimizing for LLM ergonomics.

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