Some programs assume the text does not reflow on resize

[maandree]

Since some programs assume that the text does not reflow when the terminal shrinks, it could be useful with an escape sequence that disabled it.

Additionally if such a escape sequence is used, it could also allow outside the terminals width limits to only appear if the terminal gets wider. If this is implemented it is important to take escape sequences and zero width characters (such as control characters and combining diacritical marks) into account when determining how wide the text is.

Want to back this issue? Post a bounty on it! We accept bounties via Bountysource.

[p-e-w]

Interesting... could you name a program which makes that assumption?

[maandree]

Any graphical program that do not check for resize. One example, that could use the latter part: ponysay

[p-e-w]

I see what you mean now... observe, though, that programs like ponysay will have their output wrapped by existing terminals if the terminal size is already smaller than the program's output width when the program is run. Other terminals will therefore distort the output as well, without the possibility to reflow to the expected output form. I therefore don't think this is actually a problem.

I also don't think getting a custom escape sequence included in every such program just for Final Term is a realistic option.

[maandree]

Actually, ponysay truncates the output if it is wider then the terminal so that it is not wrapped and distorted.

Custom escape sequencies for controlling final term's special functions could be useful. If you develop a program you can use them when final term is used, and if a program needs it to run well in final term that it can be patch by someone how uses final term.

[p-e-w]

Apologies, I was not aware of this. In this case, such a feature might indeed be useful. I'll keep it in mind!