Work Now, Sync Later: Is Local First the Future of Web Apps?

Local first means we store data on a user's device, then sync to the cloud when we can. Is 2025 the year of local first? Suddenly there are many compelling frameworks, a popular podcast, and lots of people diving in. Let's explore why local first is a compelling alternative to traditional client/server web apps. I'll share the benefits, downsides, and challenges I've experienced so far, so you can determine if local first makes sense for your next app.