Introduction
When dealing with source code written in TypeScript 4.x and needing to make it compatible with a 3.x compiler, there are certain considerations to keep in mind. This process involves ensuring that type declaration files (.d.ts) are emitted in a way that benefits users of the package. It's important to note that using newer language features may require dropping support for building the project with older compiler versions. However, upgrading the compiler is generally recommended unless strict security policies or auditing requirements are in place.
downlevel-dts
In TypeScript, there is a feature called "downleveling" that converts newer ECMAScript language constructs to work in older versions. While TypeScript itself doesn't inherently downlevel emitted typings files, projects like downlevel-dts maintained by Nathan Sanders allow for this functionality, supporting compatibility all the way down to TypeScript v3.4 syntax.
package.json.typesVersions and semver-ts.org
Semver-ts.org provides guidelines on downleveling types for different TypeScript versions and how to specify type definitions for package users. By using tools like downlevel-dts
and typesVersions
, developers can ensure backwards-compatible types across various TypeScript versions.
Implementing a workflow that involves utilizing downlevel-dts
as a dev-dependency, scripting downlevel types, updating package.json, and including generated files in the project structure can streamline the process of supporting multiple TypeScript versions.
Limitations and Considerations
It's important to note that not all features can be downleveled, and testing the output with the appropriate TypeScript version is crucial. For instance, certain advanced features in TypeScript 4.x may not have direct downleveling support, leading to potential limitations when using downlevel-dts
.
Challenges with Alternative Approaches
Using an older TypeScript compiler to emit typings may not be feasible for projects with manually maintained typings or complex API surfaces. Balancing the limitations of older language versions with the benefits of newer constructs can be a challenging task.
Maintaining typings for multiple TypeScript versions can introduce a significant maintenance burden, especially for large projects. Manually updating typings files for each version may not be practical in all scenarios.