monocompatible

Monocompatible is an adjective describing devices, components, or systems that are designed to be compatible with only a single other system, standard, or ecosystem. It implies a one-to-one compatibility and generally excludes compatibility with other versions or platforms. The term is used across technology, manufacturing, and design to indicate a deliberate limitation of interoperability.

In practice, monocompatibility appears where designers prioritize predictability, simplicity, and optimized performance for a particular interface or protocol. By restricting compatibility to one target, products can reduce variability and avoid the complexities of supporting multiple standards. This can simplify testing, certification, and supply chains, and may lower costs in some cases.

Common contexts include peripherals or accessories engineered solely for a single device or console, software plugins built to operate only with a designated host application, or hardware that uses a proprietary protocol without cross-compatibility. Monocompatible solutions may also emerge in regulated environments where strict standardization reduces risk.

The main drawbacks are reduced interoperability and vendor lock-in. If the single target becomes obsolete, or if market needs shift, the monocompatible component can require replacement or redesign. Critics argue that higher interoperability (polycompatible or multi-protocol support) supports longevity and broader ecosystem health.