Turso is rewriting SQLite in Rust (Interview)

SQLite Limits

Glauber Costa highlights the limitations of SQLite, particularly its status as public domain software, which restricts open contributions. He explains that while SQLite's code is accessible, the maintainers do not accept contributions, which poses challenges for developers who wish to innovate or expand its capabilities 1. This limitation became apparent when Costa and his team wanted to deploy SQLite databases to the edge and implement features like read replicas, which required modifications that were not possible under SQLite's current structure 2.

SQLite is a public domain software, which is technically a different difference. That doesn't matter, right?

--- Glauber Costa

These constraints led to the decision to create an open contribution version of SQLite, allowing for greater flexibility and innovation.

   

Turso's Strategy

To address SQLite's limitations, Costa and his team decided to fork the project, creating a version that supports open contributions. This approach allows them to tap into the creativity of the community, fostering innovation and collaboration 3. Costa emphasizes the importance of community involvement, drawing parallels to the Linux kernel's success through widespread contributions 4.

We want to make people in the community maintainers as well.

--- Glauber Costa

By separating the server and client code, Turso aims to maintain a clear distinction between their business and the open-source project, ensuring that the community can freely contribute and enhance the software 5.