TypeScript is a JavaScript extension project designed to support static typing. The project has announced plans to transition the compiler from its original TypeScript/JavaScript implementation to one written in Go. The primary reason cited for this move is the significant increase in the performance of the compiler (or transpiler), which is now approximately 10 times faster.
The project has outlined its roadmap for developing the compiler up to version 6.x (currently at version 5.8). Version 6.0 will introduce breaking changes to ensure that both compilers can work seamlessly together. Once the Go-written compiler can fully replace the original, version 7.0 will be released, marking the end of an era.
This speed boost has had a positive impact on developers’ quality of life, with large projects that previously took up to 9.6 seconds to load now only taking 1.2 seconds.
Although the new compiler is written in Go, the TypeScript project is still referred to as “native” and does not limit development to a single language.
TLDR: TypeScript project announces transition to Go-written compiler for improved performance, with plans to reach version 6.x and streamline compatibility with existing compiler before moving to version 7.0. Speed enhancements have significantly reduced project load times for developers, despite the switch in underlying language.
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