Apache Kills Off Its C++ Standard Library

Written by Michael Larabel in Programming on 18 July 2013 at 11:47 AM EDT. 27 Comments
PROGRAMMING
The Apache Software Foundation has decided to end its Apache C++ Standard Library (stdcxx) project.

While not as widely-used as GCC's libstdc++ or even LLVM's libc++ for a C++ standard library, since 2005 Apache has backed the stdcxx C++ standard library. The Apache C++ Standard Library has been a free implementation of the ISO/IEC 14882 standard for C++ and came to the Apache Software Foundation after Rogue Wave Software open-sourced their commercial implementation the better part of a decade ago.

The last Apache STDCXX release was version 4.2.1 from mid-2008 and now the Apache Software Foundation has decided to end this open-source project. At this month's ASF board meeting, a resolution was passed to move the Apache C++ Standard Library into the Apache "Attic" over inactivity with the project. The Apache Attic is to "make it clear when an Apache project has reached its end of life."

Confirmation of this decision was made today on the stdcxx mailing list. While there hasn't been a release since 2008 and the ASF decided to EOL the project over inactivity, not everyone is happy with the decision.

Vocal open-source developer C. Bergström of PathScale, responded to the Apache Software Foundation with , "This was a stupid decision made by bureaucrats. The project still has potential and the lack of vision and belief from the 'board' that those interested could actually achieve it - it's flat out disappointing. What's it 'cost' the board to actually let it have another chance? There are other passionate people like myself who use the software everyday.. It's a silent community... This decision came from those who had some issue with the project for a long time and wouldn't stop until they had their way... I may be wrong and apologies if I am, but the behind the scenes information I have points in one direction only."

Those wishing to learn more about this now-retired Apache project can visit the stdcxx project page for the Apache C++ Standard Library.
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