Raito Bezarius
5f50741ce9
This feature allows calling external binaries starting with `lix-` as subcommands directly within the `lix` CLI, similar to how Git handles external commands. For example, a binary named `lix-example` can now be invoked using `lix example`. This change opens up the possibility for broader community-driven extensions of the Lix CLI, offering flexibility that Flakes has somewhat restricted by centralizing certain features around its own model of dependency management. By enabling users to introduce custom subcommands, we encourage experimentation and diverse workflows, addressing the needs of those who seek more modular, feature-rich approaches to package management and system configuration beyond what Flakes currently offers [1] [2] [3]. This adds `lix` as a new binary to be able to use this feature. [1]: https://github.com/nmattia/niv [2]: https://github.com/andir/npins [3]: https://github.com/nikstur/lon Change-Id: Ic6344424a6a46fc9fb30432f00e21c3509659f8a Signed-off-by: Raito Bezarius <raito@lix.systems>
1.4 KiB
synopsis, cls, category, credits
| synopsis | cls | category | credits | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| `lix foo` now invokes `lix-foo` from PATH |
|
Features | raito |
Lix introduces the ability to extend the Nix command line by adding custom
binaries to the PATH, similar to how Git integrates with other tools. This
feature allows developers and end users to enhance their workflow by
integrating additional functionalities directly into the Nix CLI.
Examples
For example, a user can create a custom deployment tool, lix-deploy-tool, and
place it in their PATH. This allows them to execute lix deploy-tool
directly from the command line, streamlining the process of deploying
applications without needing to switch contexts or use separate commands.
Limitations
For now, autocompletion is supported to discover new custom commands, but the documentation will not render them. Argument autocompletion of the custom command is not supported either.
This is also locked behind a new experimental feature called
lix-custom-sub-commands to enable developing all the required features.
Only the top-level lix command can be extended, this is an artificial
limitation for the time being until we flesh out this feature.
Outline
In the future, this feature may pave the way for moving the Flake subcommand line to its own standalone binary, allowing for a more focused approach to managing Nix Flakes while letting the community explore alternatives to dependency management.