HTML Can Do That

HTML is increasingly taking over tasks previously handled by JavaScript. A variety of dynamic functionalities can now be achieved using only HTML.

HTML elements can be opened and closed with specific attributes that describe the command and target element, identified by unique IDs. Dismissing a lightbox or panel can be as simple as pressing 'Esc', without the need to manually manage z-indexes.

The HTML 'popover' and 'popover-target' attributes can create popovers, which work just as effectively as traditional JavaScript-based dialog boxes. A group of 'details' elements can be turned into an accordion using a shared 'name' attribute, with all but the currently open item automatically closing.

The 'show-modal', 'close', 'request-close', 'toggle-popover', 'show-popover', and 'hide-popover' attributes are currently stable in browsers. In the future, we may see additional 'invokers' to increment/decrement values, interact with media elements, and copy text.

HTML buttons can control a single popover without any scripting. The 'show-popover' opens one element, while 'hide-popover' closes it. HTML also allows for built-in color, range, and date pickers, which are more consistent than custom JavaScript solutions.

Autocomplete suggestions can be provided natively, without the need for third-party libraries. An image can be deferred from loading until it's near the viewport, eliminating the need for IntersectionObservers.

Navigating to a fragment link will reveal a hidden section of content. The browser automatically removes the 'hidden=until-found' attribute until the section is visible. This feature was built by Chris Burnell for HTML Day 2026 during an online event hosted by Zachary Kai on August 8th, 2026.