They’re using what’s called “feature flags” or “feature toggles.” It lets the software team work faster and safer: ship inactive code updates to clients, then gradually, remotely turn them on to make sure the changes work and be able to quickly go back without requiring another app update if something goes wrong.
They’re quite powerful and effective if used correctly. Very standard practice these days.
They’re using what’s called “feature flags” or “feature toggles.” It lets the software team work faster and safer: ship inactive code updates to clients, then gradually, remotely turn them on to make sure the changes work and be able to quickly go back without requiring another app update if something goes wrong.
They’re quite powerful and effective if used correctly. Very standard practice these days.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feature_toggle
I’ve used them in web apps. Using them in a clock app that’s entirely, or almost entirely local feels weird.