Question 1

How do I migrate from DiffableDataSources to Apple's native diffable data source?

Accepted Answer

Replace DiffableDataSources class names with Apple's equivalents (e.g., TableViewDiffableDataSource to UITableViewDiffableDataSource) and adjust for duplicate item restrictions. Use the README's naming table as a reference, but test thoroughly due to API nuances.

Question 2

DiffableDataSources or IGListKit for iOS list updates?

Accepted Answer

DiffableDataSources is best for backporting Apple's API to older OS versions with a familiar pattern, while IGListKit offers more features like declarative components. Choose based on OS support and preference for Apple's design versus extended functionality.

Question 3

How to handle cell selection with DiffableDataSources?

Accepted Answer

Implement standard UITableView or UICollectionView delegate methods separately, as the data source only manages diffing. The library doesn't change selection logic, so keep it in your view controller as with traditional setups.

Question 4

Can I use DiffableDataSources with SwiftUI?

Accepted Answer

No, it's designed for UIKit and AppKit (UITableView/UICollectionView). For SwiftUI, use native tools like List with identifiable data or consider bridging via UIViewControllerRepresentable, but DiffableDataSources won't integrate directly.

Question 5

What's the performance impact on large datasets?

Accepted Answer

It uses DifferenceKit's O(n) diffing, which is fast, but applying snapshots with thousands of items may cause UI lag. Profile your app and consider incremental updates or batch optimizations for heavy loads.

Question 6

How to install DiffableDataSources with Swift Package Manager?

Accepted Answer

Add the package URL (https://github.com/ra1028/DiffableDataSources.git) and a version constraint to your Package.swift dependencies. Ensure your project meets Swift 5.0+ and platform requirements, then import the module.

DiffableDataSources

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