Contrary to what you may think, HTML5 is not simply a new and improved version of HTML. Rather, it refers to an amalgamation of powerful, new, technologies making their way into web browsers, offering services like persistent storage, SQL database access, resource caching, streaming video, and vector graphics. As websites begin to take advantage of this cool new tech, there will be a fundamental shift in the way web applications are developed, how they behave, and the functionality they're capable of.

Robert Kieffer will lead this talk, which will provide a semi-technical overview of the various components of HTML5 (including brief, forays into code-level examples and demos), and will lead a discussion on how this will affect product development and business opportunities.

[Please note that we're trying out a new venue for these meetings this time around. G5 has graciously allowed us to use their new conference room space which, I'm told, is bigger and roomier than their old one was. More importantly, it comes with the FREE BEER we've all come to know and love!]