Survey of application program interface migration methods for object-oriented languages

Ya. A. Churkin^ab, D. M. Melnik^b, R. A. Buchatskiy<sup>b

a</sup> Lomonosov Moscow State University
^b Ivannikov Institute for System Programming of the RAS

Abstract: Application migration is the process of moving software from one platform or API version to another. With rapid technological development and constant changes in user preferences, effective interface migration is becoming a necessity to maintain the competitiveness of applications. This article provides an overview of modern methods of application programming interface migration, focusing on the importance of adapting software to changing conditions and user requirements. The article also classifies existing approaches to migration, including the use of automated tools, adaptation and refactoring methods for code on object-oriented languages. The advantages and disadvantages of various methods, such as adapting user interfaces to new platforms, template-based migration, and using adapters to ensure compatibility between legacy and new interfaces are considered. The challenges faced by developers during migration are discussed, including semantic transformation issues and the need to take into account the specifics of target platforms. This review will be useful for both researchers and practitioners working in the field of software development, providing knowledge about methods and approaches to successful migration of application programming interfaces.

Keywords: application interface API, code migration, API migration, static analysis, code transformation, library migration

DOI: 10.15514/ISPRAS-2025-37(4)-7