The Howdy Glossary

Fantom is a versatile, object-oriented programming language equipped with functional programming capabilities, designed for cross-platform software development. It combines principles from Java, C#, and JavaScript while addressing their drawbacks. Features include an elegant syntax without semicolons or braces, options for static and dynamic typing, an actor-based concurrency model in the standard library, seamless integration with Java libraries via "FFI" (Foreign Function Interface), and a sophisticated standard library covering functionalities from I/O operations to XML parsing. Additionally, Fantom is compatible with multiple virtual machines including JavaScript engines such as Node.js and web browsers through WebAssembly-enabled compiler versions.

Brian Frank created Fantom with contributions from his brother Andy Frank to synthesize the strengths of Java, C#, and JavaScript while overcoming their limitations. Together they designed solutions for cross-platform challenges by developing a language that offers modern features like clean syntax devoid of semicolons or braces, versatile typing options, an integrated actor-based concurrency model within its standard library, seamless interoperability with existing systems via "FFI," and extensive functionality through an advanced standard library. Their combined efforts have shaped Fantom into a promising language known for its versatility and innovative features tailored to modern software development needs.

Fantom faces competition from established general-purpose languages like Java, C#, and JavaScript which offer robust ecosystems and platform independence along with newer contenders like Kotlin, Rust, and Swift each bringing unique strengths. Despite this competition, Fantom distinguishes itself through key differentiators such as clean syntax enhancing code readability; dual support for static-dynamic typing catering to various developer preferences; the efficient actor-based concurrency model; seamless interoperability with existing Java libraries via "FFI"; comprehensive functionality in its advanced standard library reducing external dependencies; and compatibility across multiple virtual machines including web environments through WebAssembly. These advantages make Fantom a competitive choice for developers seeking versatility in cross-platform software development projects.