ABIdependent

ABIdependent is a term used in software engineering to describe components, libraries, or design approaches that aim to function without relying on a specific Application Binary Interface (ABI). The concept emphasizes portability and compatibility across different compiler versions, processor architectures, and operating systems by abstracting away ABI details through stable interfaces and adapters.

In practice, ABIdependent designs use techniques such as interface abstraction, stable type definitions, dynamic or plugin-based loading, and careful versioning of exported interfaces to reduce binary dependencies.

History and usage: The phrase gained traction in discussions about cross-platform development and binary compatibility, particularly in languages with native extensions and in projects that must support multiple toolchains.

Challenges: Achieving true ABI independence can incur runtime costs or code bloat due to wrapper layers; it can complicate optimization opportunities and requires disciplined release management.

Applications: Libraries intended for broad distribution, plugin ecosystems, and system components that must coexist with multiple toolchains are common targets for ABIdependent design.

See also: Application Binary Interface, binary compatibility, portability, API.