ΑCτµαlly PδRταblε εxεCµταblε
The article discusses the APE format enabling cross-platform compatibility for native code and the Cosmopolitan project simplifying C application development, emphasizing single-file executables, x86-64 architecture, and shared binary interfaces.
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The article discusses the development of the "αcτµαlly pδrταblε εxεcµταblε" (APE) format, which allows Windows Portable Executable files to be encoded as UNIX shell scripts. This innovation enables high-performance native code to run across multiple operating systems, including Windows, MacOS, and various UNIX-like systems, with minimal effort. The author, Justine Tunney, introduces a project called Cosmopolitan, aimed at making C a "build-once run-anywhere" language. The process involves reconfiguring the Linux compiler to produce binaries compatible with different operating systems. The article highlights the efficiency of single-file executables and the use of the ZIP format for embedding source files, which aids in compliance with licensing requirements. Tunney emphasizes the importance of a consensus on hardware architecture, particularly x86-64, and the potential for creating tools that facilitate software development across platforms. The article concludes with a focus on long-term software maintenance and the significance of shared binary interfaces in ensuring the longevity of software projects.
- The αcτµαlly pδrταblε εxεcµταblε format allows cross-platform compatibility for native code.
- The Cosmopolitan project aims to simplify the process of building C applications for multiple operating systems.
- Single-file executables can be created using the ZIP format, enhancing flexibility and compliance.
- A consensus on x86-64 architecture is seen as beneficial for software development tools.
- The focus on shared binary interfaces aims to ensure the longevity of software without extensive maintenance.
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