Network Information API

This is an experimental technology
Because this technology's specification has not stabilized, check the compatibility table for the proper prefixes to use in various browsers. Also note that the syntax and behavior of an experimental technology is subject to change in future versions of browsers as the spec changes.

The Network Information API provides information about the system's connection, which is in term of general connection type (e.g., 'wifi', 'cellular', etc.). This can be used to select high definition content or low definition content based on the user's connection. The entire API consists of the addition of the NetworkInformation interface and a single property to the Navigator interface: Navigator.connection.

Detecting connection changes

This example watches for changes to the user's connection.

var connection = navigator.connection || navigator.mozConnection || navigator.webkitConnection;
var type = connection.type;

function updateConnectionStatus() {
  console.log("Connection type is change from " + type + " to " + connection.type);
}

connection.addEventListener('typechange', updateConnectionStatus);

Interfaces

NetworkInformation
Provides information about the connection a device is using to commuinicate with the network and provides a means for scripts to be notified if the connection type changes. The NetworkInformation interfaces cannot be instantiated. It is instead accessed through the Navigator interface.

Specifications

Specification Status Comment
Network Information API
The definition of 'Network Information API' in that specification.
Editor's Draft Initial specification

Browser compatibility

Feature Chrome Firefox (Gecko) Internet Explorer Opera Safari
Basic support Not supported Not supported Not supported Not supported Not supported
Feature Android Firefox Mobile (Gecko) Firefox OS IE Mobile Opera Mobile Safari Mobile
Basic support 2.2 webkit 12.0[1] 1.4 Not supported Not supported Not supported

[1] The Network API can be disabled using the dom.netinfo.enabled preference.

See also

Document Tags and Contributors

 Last updated by: jpmedley,