AddonBundle

AddonBundle is a packaged collection of one or more addons intended for a host application. It provides a single distributable artifact that bundles the addon components, their metadata, and the resources needed for installation and runtime operation. The bundle concept helps streamline distribution, versioning, and dependency management when multiple addons are intended to be installed together.

A typical AddonBundle includes a manifest or metadata file describing the bundle identifier, version, author, description, target platform, and compatibility requirements. It also lists the included addons and any cross-addon dependencies, along with licensing information and a readme. Each addon component usually contains code, configuration files, assets, and any required resources.

Packaging often uses a standard archive format such as zip or tar, with a predictable directory layout. The bundle may support digital signing and integrity checks to ensure authenticity and prevent tampering. On some platforms, the bundle format is part of an official ecosystem specification and may be recognized by the host application natively.

Installation and lifecycle: When installed, the host validates the manifest, verifies dependencies, and installs the components into a designated addons directory or gallery. The host then registers the addons, enabling or configuring them according to the manifest. Bundles may support updates, uninstall, and optional enablement states.

Security and compatibility: AddonBundles declare required permissions and minimum host versions. Hosts may apply sandboxing, permission scoping, and signature checks to mitigate risk. Compatibility handling may include conflict resolution and fallback behavior if dependencies are missing.

Use and scope: AddonBundles appear in various software domains, including web browsers, integrated development environments, content management systems, and game engines, where they simplify distribution of related addons and ensure coherent installation.