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As HTML 3.2 moves toward completion, the next stage of HTML is already on the horizon. In July 1996 an experimental DTD (Data Type Definition) for HTML appeared quietly on the W3 web site. Code-named "Cougar", it contains all the capabilites of HTML 3.2 in addition to several new key elements. Many capabilities that have been under much discussion and development by the W3 are included, such as Style Sheets, Scripting, the Object tag, Internationalization and extensions to forms. This experimental version also originally contained a version number (HTML version 3.5) which has since been retracted. Since it is experimental only, and subject to frequent change, the ERB did not want to give official sanction to Cougar by assigning a version number to it (as with what happened in the HTML 3.0 case.) Some great ideas from browser vendors and the old HTML 3.0 draft are still not included yet in this experimental DTD, such as math notation capabilities. The draft states that these should appear once the definition for such features can be agreed upon. Why it is important As HTML 3.2 codifies and makes official many of the extensions created by browser vendors, it is time to extend HTML in officially agreed upon directions. This new version would add support for much of the proposed experimental capabilities that have been under development since the ill-fated HTML 3.0 draft specification. |
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