While not exactly new, the XMLHttpRequest object is receiving more attention lately as the linchpin in a new approach to web app development, most recently dubbed Ajax (asynchronous JavaScript and XML), which powers the cool features found on sites like Flickr, Amazon’s A9.com, and the new poster children for whizzy web-based interactivity, Google Maps and Google Suggest.

Website: http://www.onlamp.com/lpt/a/5841