The latest release of the ICP JavaScript SDK marks a shift towards a cleaner and more efficient developer experience. Version 4.0.0 introduces a unified core package, @icp-sdk/core, bringing together several previously separate modules into a single structure.
Instead of juggling multiple imports like @dfinity/agent, @dfinity/candid, or @dfinity/identity, developers can now access these through clearly defined submodules under one namespace. This change aims to simplify project setup and reduce unnecessary package weight during builds, offering better tree-shaking and a tidier development process overall.
To make the transition as smooth as possible, the team has released an automatic migration tool that updates existing imports and dependencies with a single command. For developers already familiar with the earlier version, the shift requires minimal effort, as no other code-level changes were introduced in this release.
Alongside the SDK update, a unified documentation portal has gone live. It brings all ICP JavaScript packages into one place, providing a consistent format for guides, references and updates. Each module will now have its own space within the new portal, making it easier to find what’s needed without bouncing between different sources.
One deprecated package, @dfinity/use-auth-client, is no longer being maintained, and developers are encouraged to move to newer, better-supported alternatives. Additional packages are expected to follow the same rebranding approach in future releases, with more tools migrating into the @icp-sdk namespace.
Although this version doesn’t introduce new features in functionality, it signals a clear focus on reducing fragmentation, improving clarity and supporting a better onboarding experience for developers building on Internet Computer. The update is aimed at keeping the tooling current with modern standards, while laying the groundwork for a more connected and community-driven ecosystem.
Dear Reader,
Ledger Life is an independent platform dedicated to covering the Internet Computer (ICP) ecosystem and beyond. We focus on real stories, builder updates, project launches, and the quiet innovations that often get missed.
We’re not backed by sponsors. We rely on readers like you.
If you find value in what we publish—whether it’s deep dives into dApps, explainers on decentralised tech, or just keeping track of what’s moving in Web3—please consider making a donation. It helps us cover costs, stay consistent, and remain truly independent.
Your support goes a long way.
🧠 ICP Principal: ins6i-d53ug-zxmgh-qvum3-r3pvl-ufcvu-bdyon-ovzdy-d26k3-lgq2v-3qe
🧾 ICP Address: f8deb966878f8b83204b251d5d799e0345ea72b8e62e8cf9da8d8830e1b3b05f
🪙 BTC Wallet: bc1pp5kuez9r2atdmrp4jmu6fxersny4uhnaxyrxau4dg7365je8sy2q9zff6p
Every contribution helps keep the lights on, the stories flowing, and the crypto clutter out.
Thank you for reading, sharing, and being part of this experiment in decentralised media.
—Team Ledger Life
