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The Aki Programming Language

Aki is currently in development. Documentation and features may evolve. There may be logic holes in the documentation. This is due to us mainly writing the documentation as we go along and as a spec that is to be implemented and then tested. If we find problems we will fix them.

Why Aki?​

You might wonder why we need another programming language. The answer lies in Aki's unique position in the ecosystem:

Seamless C/C++ Integration​

  • Aki can emit C/C++ code, allowing gradual migration of legacy codebases
  • Zero-cost interop with existing C/C++ libraries
  • No runtime overhead when calling C/C++ functions
  • Keep your existing build systems and toolchains

Modern Safety with Legacy Compatibility​

  • Rust-like safety guarantees without breaking existing code
  • Memory safety and thread safety by default
  • Ability to isolate and modernize critical components while keeping the rest
  • Gradual adoption: migrate file by file, function by function

Better C++ Than C++​

  • Clean, modern syntax without historical baggage
  • RAII and ownership semantics without template complexity
  • No more header files
  • Clear dependency management
  • Predictable build times
  • Modern generics without template metaprogramming pain

Performance First​

  • Zero-cost abstractions
  • Direct mapping to C/C++ constructs
  • No garbage collection
  • Predictable runtime behavior
  • Compile-time optimization opportunities

Instead of forcing a complete rewrite of your codebase, Aki allows you to:

  1. Start with your most critical components
  2. Maintain full compatibility with existing code
  3. Gradually introduce modern safety features
  4. Keep your current toolchain and deployment process
// Example: Seamless C++ interop
extern "C++" {
  class LegacyClass;  // Your existing C++ class
}

complex ModernWrapper {
  let priv legacy: LegacyClass;

  fn modernize(data: &str) : Result<i32, Error> {
    // Safe Aki code interfacing with legacy C++
    // Full IDE support and safety guarantees
  }
}

Aki isn't just another language - it's a practical bridge between legacy systems and modern development practices.