HTML5 brings incredible things to the table however with its taints of corporate presence and those who hold a dictation in direction. This is not "free".

HTML doesn't have to be the only web transport. Build your browser and make your own protocol. IPFS is doing just fine.

HTML4 was the last true free-release from any corporate grab. And it has everything youll ever need. However it just sits there forgotten taken by the glory of HTML5.