Modern Binary Build Systems for Python Extensions

Explore the evolution of binary extension packaging in Python through this PyCon US talk by Henry Fredrick Schreiner III. Dive into the transition from complex distutils and setuptools-based systems to modern, streamlined build systems like scikit-build-core, meson-python, and maturin. Learn how these new tools simplify the creation of compiled extensions, reducing thousands of lines of code to mere hundreds. Discover the benefits of integrated experiences, including support for systems without binary wheels on PyPI, modern editable installs, and easy configuration for advanced features. Follow along as the speaker demonstrates setting up binary extensions using CMake, Meson, and Maturin with minimal code. Gain insights into cross-compilation, multithreaded builds, and modern C++ standards support. Examine real-world examples of large-scale conversions to modern build systems, including NumPy and RAPIDS.ai. By the end of this 37-minute presentation, acquire the knowledge to create compiled extensions efficiently and modernize existing projects using these cutting-edge build systems.