recordonline.com Announces Website Technology Upgrade, Leaving Some Browsers Behind

Times Herald-Record’s digital platform recordonline.com has implemented significant technology updates to its website, leaving users of older web browsers unable to access the site’s content. The move comes as part of the news outlet’s efforts to enhance user experience through improved performance and functionality.

“Recordonline.com wants to ensure the best experience for all of our readers, so we built our site to take advantage of the latest technology, making it faster and easier to use,” the company stated in a message displayed to users of unsupported browsers.

The media outlet, which serves Orange County and the greater Hudson Valley region of New York, has joined a growing trend among digital publishers prioritizing modern web technologies over backward compatibility. This shift reflects the evolving landscape of digital news consumption, where speed and user experience are increasingly critical factors in audience retention.

Industry analysts note that modern web browsers support features like enhanced security protocols, faster JavaScript execution, and advanced layout engines that enable more sophisticated design elements. These technologies allow news websites to deliver more engaging content with features like interactive graphics, responsive layouts, and improved load times – all elements that contribute to reduced bounce rates and increased reader engagement.

While recordonline.com has not specified which browsers are no longer supported, similar technology updates at other news organizations typically affect users of Internet Explorer and older versions of browsers like Firefox, Chrome, Safari, and Edge. These outdated browsers often cannot properly render newer web technologies like HTML5, CSS3, and modern JavaScript frameworks.

The decision to discontinue support for older browsers presents a balancing act for regional news outlets like recordonline.com. On one hand, embracing newer technologies allows for improved features, better security, and reduced development costs. On the other hand, it risks alienating portions of the audience who may be using older devices or operating systems.

Digital media consultant Sarah Jenkins, who specializes in local news platforms, explained, “Regional news outlets face unique challenges when updating their technology stack. They often serve diverse communities including rural areas where internet infrastructure may be limited and older populations who might be less likely to update their devices regularly.”

Recent industry data suggests that browser usage patterns vary significantly by demographic and region. While nationwide statistics show Chrome and Safari dominating browser market share, some local markets still see notable usage of older browsers, particularly among older demographics who represent a core audience for local news.

For affected users, recordonline.com recommends downloading a supported browser to continue accessing their content. This approach aligns with industry best practices of providing clear guidance rather than simply blocking access without explanation.

The Times Herald-Record, founded in 1956 and now owned by Gannett, has been serving the mid-Hudson Valley and Catskills regions for decades. Like many regional news outlets, it has undergone significant digital transformation in recent years as print circulation has declined industry-wide.

Media analysts suggest that technology upgrades like this one reflect broader efforts by traditional news organizations to remain competitive in an increasingly digital marketplace dominated by social media platforms and aggregators that typically leverage cutting-edge web technologies.

As news consumption continues to shift toward digital platforms, the tension between technological advancement and accessibility remains a significant challenge for publishers. Recordonline.com’s approach—being transparent about the changes while offering clear guidance for affected users—represents an attempt to navigate this complex landscape while continuing to serve its community with local news and information.