Next.js Conf Keynote (Next.js 14)

Introduction to Next.js

• Next.js was started seven years ago to build fast websites without dealing with the complexities of tooling and infrastructure.
• Currently, there are 850,000 monthly active developers using Next.js.
• The community has built impressive websites like nike.com and notion.so using Next.js.
• Next.js is a react front-end development web framework with server-side rendering.

Next.js 14 and the App Router

• Next.js 14 introduces the App Router, which offers flexibility for developers.
• The App Router includes APIs like layouts, Nest layouts, and a new metadata API.
• The data fetching system in the App Router includes caching and invalidation.
• The App Router has a faster performance and is built on streaming and web fundamentals.
• The App Router can be adopted incrementally alongside the pages router.

Updates on Next.js Documentation and Learning

• Next.js has overhauled its documentation, including API reference docs and improved search.
• A new Next.js Learn website has been introduced, providing more education and resources for developers.
• Next.js Learn covers not only the fundamentals but also areas like authentication and databases.
• Next.js Learn has already educated millions of developers and led to amazing projects.

Next.js and React Server Components

• Next.js aims to provide a simple and opinionated programming model.
• React's composition into reusable components is a powerful feature.
• Next.js has implemented new APIs like suspense and react server components to expose them to developers.
• The app router now supports server components, allowing fetching and rendering of dynamic data.
• Server actions can be used to mutate data alongside react components.

Performance Improvements in Next.js

• Next.js focuses on providing a fast initial visual and dynamic visual experience.
• The latest improvements in the compiler infrastructure have resulted in faster initial compiles and code updates.
• The next.js compiler is being refocused to deliver performance enhancements incrementally.
• Performance improvements include a faster dev server, faster code updates, and faster production builds.

Simplifying Next.js with Partial Pre-rendering

• Partial pre-rendering is a technology activated during build time in the Next.js compiler.
• It pre-renders static parts of the website, including fallbacks for dynamic slots.
• This allows for a fast initial visual and streaming of dynamic parts without waterfalls.
• Partial pre-rendering is easy to implement and does not require learning new APIs.

Future Updates in Next.js

• Next.js is working on simplifying caching and bringing Turbo pack to production builds.
• Better observability and insight into the Next.js application lifecycle are also in the pipeline.

Overall, Next.js has made significant improvements in performance, documentation, and learning resources. The introduction of the App Router and partial pre-rendering allows for a faster and simpler development experience.