Futures

Exploring stlite: A Serverless Approach to Running Streamlit Apps in Your Browser, (from page 20240225.)

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Summary

stlite is a browser-based version of Streamlit that allows users to run apps directly in the browser without needing a traditional server. Unlike typical server-based applications, stlite operates without server-dependent code, using Pyodide—a Python interpreter compiled to Web Assembly (WASM)—to execute Python code in the browser. This enables the use of Python libraries for data science that are unavailable in JavaScript, while also allowing Python code to interact with JavaScript libraries. The primary advantage of stlite is the ability to deploy Streamlit apps on any website without relying on Streamlit Cloud, offering flexibility in deployment methods.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Serverless Application Deployment The shift towards serverless applications allows for easier and faster deployment. Transitioning from server-dependent applications to fully browser-based applications. In 10 years, most applications may run seamlessly in the browser without server dependencies. The increasing demand for efficient, scalable, and cost-effective application deployment methods. 4
Integration of Python and Web Technologies The ability to run Python directly in the browser via Pyodide opens new possibilities for web apps. Moving from traditional server-side Python scripts to client-side execution in browsers. More complex data science and machine learning applications could be directly embedded in websites. The growing need for rich, interactive data applications on the web. 5
WASM Adoption in Web Development Web Assembly is gaining traction as a method for running various programming languages in the browser. From JavaScript-centric development to a multi-language web development approach. Web development could become more diverse, supporting multiple languages natively in browsers. Developers seeking performance and flexibility in web applications. 4
Decentralized Application Hosting Shifts in how applications are hosted, reducing reliance on centralized cloud services. From centralized hosting solutions to decentralized, flexible deployment options. The future may see a rise in decentralized applications hosted directly by users. The push for more autonomy and control over application deployment. 3

Concerns

name description relevancy
Dependency on External Libraries The integration of Pyodide with JavaScript and data science libraries may lead to unforeseen issues due to updates or changes in those libraries. 4
Security Risks of Browser-based Execution Running code in a browser environment can expose vulnerabilities that may be exploited by malicious actors. 5
Performance Limitations Running complex applications directly in the browser may face limitations in processing power and speed compared to server-based execution. 3
Browser Compatibility Issues Not all browsers may support Web Assembly uniformly, leading to compatibility issues for users. 3
User Privacy Concerns Running applications in a browser may lead to increased data collection and potential privacy violations if not managed properly. 4

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Serverless App Deployment The ability to run apps directly in the browser without relying on traditional server-based hosting. 5
Browser-based Python Execution Running Python code natively in the browser using technologies like Pyodide and WASM. 5
Integration of Data Science Libraries Utilizing data science libraries in Python that are not available in Javascript for enhanced functionality. 4
Flexible Deployment Options Deploying applications to any website without being limited to specific platforms like Streamlit Cloud or GitHub. 4
Enhanced User Interaction Improving user experience by reducing server calls and allowing for immediate updates in web applications. 4

Technologies

description relevancy src
A browser-based implementation of Streamlit, allowing apps to run without server-based code. 4 bdf1b2cfe61370414a183a2690be33e2
A Python interpreter ported to Web Assembly, enabling Python code execution directly in web browsers. 5 bdf1b2cfe61370414a183a2690be33e2
A binary instruction format for a stack-based virtual machine, allowing code to run in web browsers at near-native speed. 5 bdf1b2cfe61370414a183a2690be33e2

Issues

name description relevancy
Serverless Application Development The rise of serverless architectures allows applications to run in browsers without traditional server dependencies, enhancing accessibility. 4
Browser-Based Python Execution The ability to run Python code natively in the browser via Pyodide opens new opportunities for data science and web development. 5
Integration of Python and JavaScript Facilitating communication between Python and JavaScript expands the capabilities of web applications, leveraging strengths of both languages. 4
Decentralized Deployment Models The move away from centralized deployment platforms like Streamlit Cloud provides developers with more flexibility and control. 3
Web Assembly (WASM) Adoption Increasing use of WASM for running high-performance code in browsers may reshape how applications are developed and deployed. 4