As the prevalence of frontend frameworks in web development increases, component testing has become essential for quick problem identification and resolution, yet many tools still rely on a virtual DOM instead of real browser environments. WebdriverIO version 8 addresses this by enabling tests to run directly in real web browsers, enhancing the testing process through realistic user interactions. Christian Bromann, a Founding Engineer at Stateful, provides insights and demonstrations on utilizing WebdriverIO for component testing across frameworks like Vue, Svelte, React, or Preact, emphasizing the importance of running tests in actual browsers to uncover hidden issues. He highlights the testing pyramid and testing trophy concepts, recommending a focus on integration-level tests for optimal balance and efficiency. Bromann explains the setup of WebdriverIO for various test types, including component tests using real browsers, and demonstrates how to write and execute these tests while mocking backend functionalities to isolate components. The session concludes with a Q&A where Bromann discusses the advantages of browser-based testing, WebdriverIO's unique capabilities, and strategies for overcoming component testing challenges.