The Controversial Protocol for Setting Window Icons in Wayland

TLDRMatias Clump introduces a protocol for setting window icons in Wayland, which has sparked controversy among developers. While some argue that desktop entry files should handle this, others suggest dynamically generating these files. The debate revolves around functionality, security, and the need for a dedicated Wayland protocol.

Key insights

🖼️The protocol allows individual windows to have their own icons, different from the application's main icon.

🖥️Some apps, like scientific and audio production tools, benefit from separate icons for each window.

📂Desktop entry files provide metadata beyond icons, aiding compositor functionality.

🔧Dynamic generation of desktop entry files may solve limitations with portable apps or those without proper associations.

⚠️Injecting persistent desktop entry files poses security risks and requires careful implementation.

Q&A

Why do developers disagree on how to set window icons in Wayland?

—The debate stems from different perspectives on functionality, security, and the best way to handle associations and metadata beyond icons.

What are the benefits of allowing individual windows to have separate icons?

—It helps users distinguish between multiple windows of the same application and aids in taskbar or window overview navigation.

Why do some developers argue against using desktop entry files for window icons?

—Desktop entry files provide additional functionality beyond icons, such as handling associations and providing metadata, which may not be suitable for all use cases.

How could dynamic generation of desktop entry files solve the limitations of portable apps?

—Dynamic generation would allow portable apps to create associations and icons on the fly without depending on pre-existing desktop entry files.

What security risks are associated with injecting persistent desktop entry files?

—Injecting persistent desktop entry files can potentially redirect one app to another, leading to deceptive behavior and security vulnerabilities.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Matias Clump introduces a protocol for setting window icons in Wayland.

01:43The debate centers on the use of desktop entry files versus dynamically generating these files.

04:57The discussion highlights the benefits and limitations of the proposed protocol.

08:22Developers explore alternative solutions for handling window icons in Wayland.

12:40Concerns are raised regarding security and the potential impact of injecting persistent desktop entry files.

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