Use class in embedded web area with $4d
With 4D 20 R9, 4D introduces new commands that allow developers to define an object context for $4d, ensuring only specific functions are exposed. Previously, using $4d meant exposing 4D methods to the web area, but now, you can define and use class functions instead. This improvement allows for better organization, encapsulation, and security when integrating 4D functionalities into web areas.
Custom Parameters for Initializing Embedded Web Area
Since the embedded web area utilizes CEF as its web browser engine, there have been requests for a method to incorporate additional CEF switches, like the autoplay-policy switch, during the area initialization.
Starting with 4D 20 R6, you can manage your custom parameters using a parameter file.
New Windows system rendering engine for Web Areas
Web areas can display various types of web content within your forms: HTML pages with static or dynamic contents, files, pictures,… You can choose between two rendering engines for the web area, depending on the specifics of your application:
- the embedded rendering engine
- the system rendering engine
The advantage of the embedded system is the cross-platform portability. No need to adapt to some specifics of a platform. Moreover, it allows you to access 4D methods.
The advantage of the system browser is the security updates that are available right away. There’s no need to wait for the next version of 4D. We recommend it for accessing the public Internet site.
Windows has announced that “Internet Explorer 11 is retiring on June 15, 2022“. So since 4D v19 R5, if you use the system rendering engine, 4D uses Microsoft Edge WebView2. This change allows you to benefit from a modern browser with the latest features and security updates. For example, Microsoft Edge can be used to display PDFs.
Webcam support in Web Areas
With COVID-19, the remote office has become a new standard, and video conferencing is becoming commonplace for professionals. As a result, more and more professionals have started weaving video conferencing features into their applications. To allow you to display video conferencing from different sources like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and others, we now support audio and video streams in web areas!