Changelog Interviews

Turso is rewriting SQLite in Rust

Jan 30, 2025
Glauber Costa, co-founder and CEO of Turso, is reshaping database technology with Limbo, a transformative rewrite of SQLite in Rust. He delves into the limitations of SQLite's public domain status and the innovative LibSQL project designed for open contributions. Their use of Deterministic Simulation Testing ensures robust development, while engaging the community keeps the project dynamic. Glauber highlights the technical challenges of maintaining compatibility and introduces exciting enhancements like asynchronous I/O, all while paving the way for the future of database innovation.
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ANECDOTE

LibSQL origin story

  • Glauber and Pekka, experienced Linux kernel developers, needed a distributed, edge-deployable SQLite.
  • They initially forked SQLite (LibSQL) due to its closed contribution model, aiming for an open alternative.
INSIGHT

Different approaches

  • Glauber clarifies they don't oppose SQLite's community management; they simply prefer open contribution.
  • Limbo aims to surpass SQLite by leveraging a modern open-source community's dynamism.
ANECDOTE

Limbo's rewrite success

  • LibSQL, while successful for Turso, didn't fully achieve the goal of replacing SQLite.
  • Limbo's rewrite, however, garnered significant community interest and contributions, validating their approach.
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