How can I tell if a browser supports ``

javascript

feature-detection

browser-support

input-type-date

byNikita Barsukov·Nov 23, 2024

Quickly ascertain if a browser supports <input type='date'> by crafting an input element and assigning its type to 'date'. JavaScript's feature detection then verifies whether the element hangs onto its 'date' assignment, a surefire sign of affirmative support. A retreat to 'text' sounds the gong of denial. Here's your magic spell:

var input = document.createElement('input');
input.type = 'date';
if (input.type === 'date') {
    // The eagle has landed! We have 'date' support
} else {
    // Houston, we have a problem, no 'date' support
}

Keep an eye on input.type. It's our lie detector—exposing the truth and busting false claims of support.

Cracking the secret code: Advanced feature detection

What happens when a door claims to be open but really isn't? We knock, of course, just to be sure. Assign an invalid value to the input while checking if the wayward browser rights this wrong:

var input = document.createElement('input');
input.setAttribute('type', 'date');
// Assign it an invalid date, like a broken lock
input.setAttribute('value', 'not-a-date'); 

if (input.value !== 'not-a-date') {
    // The lock is fixed, and we're in. Real support is here
} else {
    // The lock remains broken. 404, support not found
}

By setting a phantom date, and checking if the browser turns 'ghostbuster' to sanitize it, we confirm we're not just dealing with an empty promise of support.

In optimal behavior we trust

Much like those times when your two-day shipping arrives in three days, some browsers might promise date support, but they can be riddled with bugs or inconsistent behavior. More than just words, we need solid actions—a competent performance to prove this promise.

Swear in the 'date' type. If it stays loyal, the browser supports it.
Assign an invalid value and see if the browser sanitizes it.
For those browsers who like to show off, you could examine other aspects like min, max, and step.

If the door doesn't open, build a window: Providing fallbacks

If a browser turns a cold shoulder to date inputs, we offer our users a warm fireplace of fallbacks. Libraries such as jQuery UI Datepicker provide a familiar calendar if the browser decides to become a party pooper:

if (input.type !== 'date') {
    // Let's summon jQuery UI Datepicker to save the day
    $(input).datepicker();
}

Our fallback strategy springs into action only when the browser fails the support exam, ensuring we're not just running laps around a circular logic.

The hunt for feature availability

We don't judge a book by its cover, a cat by its purr, or a browser by its version. Our future-proof strategy doesn't rely on shot-in-the-dark assumptions. Instead, we hunt for the presence of the feature, not just stylish claims of support.

Feature presence trumps alleged support.
Functionality tests ensure your sentences land on solid ground.
Our feature detection fires its pistols on document ready or page load.

Navigating Universal User Experience

When a browser decides to throw a tantrum by not supporting <input type='date'>, we have a golden opportunity to show off our problem-solving skills:

Identify the support (or lack thereof).
Implement complex feature detection for a flawless performance.
Prepare a mosquito net (like jQuery UI Datepicker) for any potential bugs.
Ensure the net tightens only when mosquitos are confirmed, keeping the performance swift.
Keep an eye on the horizon for the latest in browser support to shore up your defenses.