os-dependent development

noun phrase
UK /ˌəʊˈes dɪˈpendənt dɪˈveləpmənt/
US /ˌoʊˈes dɪˈpendənt dɪˈveləpmənt/

Making computer programs that only work on one kind of computer system.

The game studio focused on OS-dependent development so their app ran perfectly on Windows.

SYNONYMS

platform-specific developmentsystem-dependent programmingOS-specific codingplatform-targeted development

RELATED WORDS

cross-platform developmentoperating systemportabilitysoftware compatibilitynative application

OTHER MEANINGS

2. Writing code that relies on features unique to a particular operating system.

Their OS-dependent development meant the tool used Windows-only system calls.

3. A development approach where testing and building happen only on one operating system.

OS-dependent development kept the team from catching bugs on macOS.

4. Software design that assumes a single operating system environment for deployment.

OS-dependent development simplified their release but limited their audience.