Introducing Typekit
Font support on the web has long been a topic of debate. Recent years have seen the emergence of various techniques for embedding fonts through flash, a method known as Cufon, or various plays on the new @font-face CSS properties emerging slowly through CSS3.
The main limiting factor to date is that of font licensing. Understandably, foundries are reluctant to allow web designers to publicly host their font files for anyone to download. A few typefaces have been licensed for use online, but designers are severely limited in choice.
This week saw the announcement of a breakthrough system – Typekit.
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Currently in development, Typekit should offer a font hosting platform to ensure copyright protection whilst at the same time attempting to smooth out differences in how browsers handle type.
So, how will it work?
“As a Typekit user, you’ll have access to our library of high-quality fonts. Just add a line of JavaScript to your markup, tell us what fonts you want to use, and then craft your pages the way you always have. Except now you’ll be able to use real fonts. This really is going to change web design.”
It’s a wonderful concept, and stands to usher in a new era for designers. The key to Typekit’s future will be getting foundries on board, and coming up with a feasible business model. Hopefully foundries will embrace the future of web design en masse, and Typekit will produce a service for which we’ll happy part with our money.
You can sign up for more information at the Typekit site.
Here’s to the future!