# Beautiful Type Erasure with C++26 Reflection

C++26 reflection simplifies type erasure processes.

- **Source:** [Hacker News](https://news.ycombinator.com)
- **Published:** 2026-07-14
- **Topic:** [Software & Engineering](https://brifing.si/c/engineering)
- **Original article:** <https://ryanjk5.github.io/posts/rjk-duck/>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/e4254e07-e52a-47fe-8137-9fe5ab8d0b01

## What is Type Erasure?

Type erasure is a programming technique that allows different types to be used under a single interface. This technique increases code flexibility, especially in complex systems.

## C++26 Reflection Feature

C++26 introduces the reflection feature, giving developers more control over their code. This feature makes type erasure easier and less error-prone.

## rjk::duck Library

The rjk::duck library simplifies type erasure using C++26 reflection. This library allows developers to write less code and make fewer mistakes.

## Example Usage

With the rjk::duck library, defining an interface allows different types to be managed through it. For example, a vector or string type can be managed through the same interface.

## Tag Generation

C++26 reflection makes tag generation easier in type erasure. These tags define the properties of the type, enabling more effective type erasure.

## VTable Code Generation

The rjk::duck library uses C++26 reflection for VTable code generation. This automates the code required during type erasure.

## Overload Resolution

Overload resolution in type erasure becomes easier with C++26 reflection. This feature allows different types to be used through the same interface.

## Interconvertibility

The rjk::duck library preserves interconvertibility in type erasure. This allows easy transitions between different types.

## C++26 Reflection Syntax

C++26 reflection uses special syntax like [[=rjk::trait]]. This syntax makes type erasure more readable and manageable.

## Meta Functions

C++26 reflection provides access to type information through meta functions. These functions help generate tags used in type erasure.

## Code Generation Mechanism

C++26 reflection automates type erasure with its code generation mechanism. This mechanism allows developers to write less code.

## Future Potential

C++26 reflection could offer broader applications in type erasure in the future. This feature may become an essential tool for C++ developers.

## Sources covering this story

- https://ryanjk5.github.io/posts/rjk-duck/ — 

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._