backwards compatibility
Works with older
Backwards compatibility, also called backward compatibility, describes technology that works with older versions of itself or with legacy systems.
A backwards-compatible video game console can play games designed for previous generations; backwards-compatible software reads files created by earlier versions.
The term appears frequently in computing, electronics, and engineering contexts where newer products must integrate with existing infrastructure.
The new operating system maintains backwards compatibility with older applications.
- legacy supportMaintaining older system functionality
- back-engineeringAnalyzing to recreate
- retroactiveEffective from a past date
- emulationCopying to rival
- legacy systemOutdated tech still operating
firmware updates · interoperability · legacy code · virtualization · file formats · software updates · plug and play · coexistence · interface · accessibility features · modular design · peripheral devices · downgrade · network protocols · graceful degradation · end of life · concurrent · technology
- PlayStationDualShock, PS5, PS3, PS4, PlayStation Network
- XboxXbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Live, Game Pass, gamertag
- system qualitiesreliability, availability, scalability, performance, usability
- Wii USplatoon, eShop, second screen, HDMI output
- gaming businessmicrotransactions, loot boxes, DLC, pay-to-win, battle pass
- tech adoptionadoption rate, technology adoption, early adopter, early adopters, late adopter
backwards compatibilitydeprecation
Expression of strong disapproval
planned obsolescence · clean break · incompatibility · forced migration · sunsetting
backward, backwards, compatible, compatibility, incompatible, incompatibility