Libxml2 has announced the release of version 2.15.0, which introduces substantial enhancements to its architecture and functionality, while maintaining compatibility across various operating systems and hardware setups. The library provides bindings for multiple programming languages including C++, Python, and Ruby, making it a flexible solution for XML document parsing and processing.
- Python Bindings: While disabled by default, Python bindings can be enabled during compilation, which also requires Doxygen.
- Schematron Support: Similar to Python bindings, Schematron support is also disabled by default but can be reactivated during compilation.
- Parser Enhancements: The parser option XML_PARSE_UNZIP is now mandatory for reading compressed data.
- HTML Serialization: HTML serialization and character encoding handling have been updated to align with the HTML5 specification.
- Accessors for xmlParserCtxt: Additional accessors have been introduced for the xmlParserCtxt structure.
- Built-in HTTP Client: This feature has been eliminated.
- LZMA Compression Support: Support for LZMA compression has also been removed.
- Custom Windows Build System: The previous build system for Windows has been replaced with CMake.
Key Features of Libxml2 2.15.0
- API Documentation: The documentation has been revamped using Doxygen, requiring new configuration options and dependencies for building.- Python Bindings: While disabled by default, Python bindings can be enabled during compilation, which also requires Doxygen.
- Schematron Support: Similar to Python bindings, Schematron support is also disabled by default but can be reactivated during compilation.
- Parser Enhancements: The parser option XML_PARSE_UNZIP is now mandatory for reading compressed data.
- HTML Serialization: HTML serialization and character encoding handling have been updated to align with the HTML5 specification.
- Accessors for xmlParserCtxt: Additional accessors have been introduced for the xmlParserCtxt structure.
Deprecations and Removals
The release has deprecated several internal functions and struct members to enhance performance. Notable removals include:- Built-in HTTP Client: This feature has been eliminated.
- LZMA Compression Support: Support for LZMA compression has also been removed.
- Custom Windows Build System: The previous build system for Windows has been replaced with CMake.
Future Plans
Looking ahead to version 2.16, the library plans to remove the Python bindings and support for Schematron validation. Additionally, the Modules API and zlib compressed file I/O support are under consideration for future removal.Download Information
Libxml2 version 2.15.0 is available for download at [GNOME's official site](https://download.gnome.org/sources/libxml2/2.15/libxml2-2.15.0.tar.xz), with a sha256 checksum provided for file verification.Conclusion
The release of Libxml2 2.15.0 marks a significant step forward in the library's evolution, enhancing its usability and performance while preparing for a more streamlined future. As developers adopt these updates, they can expect improved capabilities for XML processing across various programming environments. Future releases will continue to refine the library, focusing on removing outdated features and enhancing integration with modern programming practicesLibxml2 2.15.0 released
Libxml2 version 2.15.0 has been released, bringing significant updates to its architecture and functionality while ensuring broad compatibility across different operating systems and hardware environments. The library includes bindings for various programming languages, including C++, Python, and Ruby, making it a versatile tool for parsing and processing XML documents. Key features in the new release include improved API documentation, updated HTML serialization, and more accessors for xmlParserCtxt. Additionally, several deprecated functions and struct members have been removed or marked for future removal to improve the library's overall performance and maintainability.
