\n\nThis compact code uses a hidden file input, a clickable label looking like a button, and a script to dynamically modify the label text, rendering a balmy user interaction.","image":"https://explain.codes/media/static/images/eightify-logo.svg","author":{"@type":"Person","name":"Nikita Barsukov","url":"https://explain.codes//author/nikita-barsukov"},"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Rational Expressions, Inc","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https://explain.codes/landing/images/[email protected]"}},"datePublished":"2024-09-21T15:00:01.249Z","dateModified":"2024-09-21T15:00:03.742Z"}
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Change the "No file chosen":

javascript
prompt-engineering
responsive-design
drag-and-drop
Nikita BarsukovbyNikita Barsukov·Sep 21, 2024
TLDR

Want to customize the default "No file chosen" text? Here's a trick: use CSS and JavaScript to create a faux control, while hiding the real file input. Here's a practical example:

<style> .file-upload-wrapper { position: relative; overflow: hidden; } .file-upload-input { opacity: 0; width: 0.1px; height: 0.1px; // just like your first program, small but important } .file-upload-btn { display: inline-block; margin-right: 10px; // gives our button some breathing space border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 6px 20px; border-radius: 4px; // everyone loves rounded corners cursor: pointer; background-color: #f8f8f8; } .file-upload-text { font-size: 16px; } // wouldn't want our text to feel left out </style> <div class="file-upload-wrapper"> <input id="file-upload" class="file-upload-input" type="file" onchange="updateLabel()"> <label id="file-upload-label" for="file-upload" class="file-upload-btn">Choose File</label> <span id="file-upload-text" class="file-upload-text">No file selected</span> </div> <script> function updateLabel() { var fileName = ''; // empty, like the list of bugs in your code if (document.getElementById('file-upload').files.length > 0) { fileName = document.getElementById('file-upload').files[0].name; } document.getElementById('file-upload-text').textContent = fileName || 'No file selected'; } </script>

This compact code uses a hidden file input, a clickable label looking like a button, and a script to dynamically modify the label text, rendering a balmy user interaction.

Step-by-step customization guide

Smoothing the user experience

Want to make the interaction as flawless as your code? Make some adjustments. Use CSS to ensure the label fits seamlessly with your site's existing design. To supplement the UX, implement visual moves such as hover states or transitions. Consider a JavaScript implementation to provide real-time responses as the file upload progresses.

Facing browser inconsistencies

Your goal is the same no matter where your users are. Continuously test your custom implementation on different browsers to account for possible variances. After all, we develop for our users—not for our preferred browser.

Multiple file handling

Got many files? The multiple attribute can help. Adjust your script to show all selected file names or display a standard "Multiple files selected" when more than one file is chosen.

Pro-level customization tips

Making way for accessibility

Using the for attribute keeps the input clickable, which is essential for accessibility and usability. Just an FYI, the label's for attribute must match the input’s id.

Advanced interactivity with JavaScript

Listeners can be your best friend; use them for drag-and-drop files, preview selected images, and auto-upload files when they are chosen.

Unleashing CSS

Go wild with your CSS styles, just make sure your design is still accessible: use opacity: 0; instead of display: none; to hide the actual input field.