TL;DR
EndBASIC 0.14 has been released, adding new graphics primitives, sound support, and console improvements. These updates significantly enhance its multimedia capabilities, moving closer to a 1.0 milestone. Some features, like full sound integration, are still in progress.
EndBASIC 0.14 was released today, bringing a suite of new features that significantly enhance its multimedia capabilities. The update introduces new graphics primitives, support for sound output, and improved console compatibility, marking a major step toward the project’s goal of reaching a 1.0 release. These developments are important for users seeking a more versatile and engaging programming environment.
The primary focus of EndBASIC 0.14 is on expanding graphics and sound support. The release adds commands for drawing triangles (GFX_TRI, GFX_TRIF), polygons (GFX_POLY, GFX_POLYF), and bucket-fill operations (GFX_FILL), enabling more complex visual projects. Additionally, a demo program rendering bouncing circles has been included in the demo gallery, showcasing these new graphics features in real time, accessible directly via the browser.
Another key update is the overhaul of console rendering. The developers replaced TTF font support with a custom font engine, adding the classic IBM VGA 8×16 font to unify the look across consoles. This change creates a more retro aesthetic, emphasizing the hybrid nature of the console, which now combines text and graphics seamlessly. Furthermore, the SDL graphical console on macOS has been fixed to work correctly with the latest OS versions, resolving crashes caused by threading issues.
Most notably, EndBASIC 0.14 introduces support for direct execution of scripts via shebang lines, allowing users to run EndBASIC programs directly from Unix-like terminals with customizable console settings. This feature enhances script portability and ease of use. Finally, the release includes preliminary support for sound, a feature the developer has long wanted to implement, which will eventually allow audio output within programs.
Why EndBASIC 0.14’s Multimedia Features Matter
This release marks a significant step toward making EndBASIC a more complete and engaging programming environment. By adding advanced graphics primitives and preliminary sound support, it opens the door for more multimedia-rich projects, appealing to hobbyists, educators, and developers interested in retro-style or embedded applications. These features also bring EndBASIC closer to a 1.0 milestone, indicating maturity and readiness for broader use.
Moreover, improvements like the shebang support and macOS compatibility demonstrate ongoing commitment to cross-platform usability and developer convenience, which are crucial for wider adoption and community growth.
XPPen Updated Deco 01 V3 Drawing Tablet-16384 Levels of Pressure Battery-Free Stylus, 10×6 Inch OSU Graphic Tablet, 8 Hotkeys for Digital Art, Teaching, Gaming Drawing Pad for Chrome, PC, Mac, Android
Word-first 16K Pressure Levels: The upgraded stylus features 16,384 levels of pressure sensitivity and supports up to 60…
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
EndBASIC’s Development Milestones and Past Features
EndBASIC has been under active development since its initial release, with version 0.13 focusing on performance enhancements through a new compiler and VM. Prior to 0.14, the project primarily centered on improving execution speed and stability. The current update shifts focus toward multimedia capabilities, a long-standing goal for the project, with previous efforts including basic graphics support and console compatibility on various platforms.
The developer has consistently emphasized incremental progress, with each release adding features like graphics primitives, console improvements, and now, sound support. The addition of these features aligns with the goal of reaching a stable 1.0 release, making EndBASIC a more versatile tool for creative programming and educational purposes.
“This release is a major milestone because it unlocks the last frontier towards a possible 1.0, with new graphics primitives and initial sound support.”
— EndBASIC developer
BENFEI DisplayPort to VGA Cable, 1.8M Display Port of Computer/Laptop to VGA of Monitor/Projector Gold-Plated Adapter (Not Bidirectional,Not Compatible with HDMI or USB)
EXCELLENT TRANSMISSION: Benfei DisplayPort to VGA 1.8 Meter Cable utilizes better chip solution and professional multiple shielding for…
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Remaining Challenges and Future Plans for Multimedia
While graphics primitives are fully implemented, the sound support in EndBASIC 0.14 is still in its early stages and not yet integrated into the core runtime. The developer has indicated that audio output is a priority but has not specified a release timeline for complete sound functionality.
Additionally, some features, like advanced multimedia controls or extensive library support, remain unconfirmed and are likely future goals rather than immediate plans. The stability and performance of these new features across all supported platforms are still being tested, and user feedback will influence further refinements.
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Guitarists, Vocalists, Podcasters or Producers to record and playback studio quality sound
Pro performance with great pre-amps – Achieve a brighter recording thanks to the high performing mic pre-amps of…
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Upcoming Developments and Expected Milestones
The developer plans to continue refining sound support, aiming for full integration in upcoming releases. Focus will also remain on improving stability, expanding graphics capabilities, and enhancing cross-platform compatibility. User feedback from the current release will guide priorities, and further demos or tutorials demonstrating multimedia projects are expected.
Expect incremental updates that expand multimedia features, along with bug fixes and performance enhancements, as the project moves toward a stable 1.0 release.
Silicognition wESP32-Prog-C – USB Type-C PD Serial Console and Programming Module for wESP32
Based on Silicon Labs CP2102N for best cross-platform compatibility
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Key Questions
Will EndBASIC 0.14 support full sound output?
Sound support has been introduced but is still in early development. Full integration and features are expected in future updates.
Can I run EndBASIC scripts directly from the command line?
Yes, the new shebang support allows scripts to be executed directly with customizable console settings.
Is EndBASIC 0.14 compatible with macOS?
Yes, the macOS SDL console has been fixed and now works correctly, though unsigned binaries may require manual approval.
What graphics features are available in 0.14?
New primitives for triangles, polygons, and fill operations are available, enabling more complex visual projects.
What are the plans for future multimedia features?
The developer intends to fully develop sound support and enhance multimedia capabilities in upcoming releases.
Source: Hacker News
