Babel is a JavaScript compiler. Use next generation JavaScript and the compiler will convert your code into a backward-compatible version of JavaScript that can run in older browsers or environments. It allows developers to use the newest JavaScript features without worrying about browser support. Babel offers plugins and presets, enabling transformations for specific syntax or targets. A cornerstone of JS development workflows.
The npm package "babel" had an initial release in March 2013. Release frequency peaked in early to mid 2015 with numerous versions. The number of releases significantly decreased after 2015, with sporadic releases until early 2017 and no releases between then and September 2025.
Babel's npm package downloads show growth, with fluctuations. From March 2024 to August 2025, downloads generally increased. Notably, November 2024 had a significant spike. July and August of 2025 saw higher numbers than previous months. September 2025 has partial data, showing very strong numbers.
