How do I use std::unique_ptr in C++?

How do I use std::unique_ptr in C++?

You can use std::unique_ptr to manage dynamic memory automatically. It ensures that the memory is freed when the unique_ptr goes out of scope.

Can you show me a simple example?

Sure! Here's a basic example:

#include <iostream>
#include <memory>

int main() {
    std::unique_ptr<int> ptr = std::make_unique<int>(10);
    std::cout << *ptr << std::endl; // Outputs: 10
    return 0;
}

What happens if I try to copy a unique_ptr?

You cannot copy a std::unique_ptr because it is designed to have a single owner. If you try to copy it, you'll get a compilation error. You can, however, move it using std::move.

How do I transfer ownership of a unique_ptr?

You can transfer ownership by using std::move. For example:

std::unique_ptr<int> ptr1 = std::make_unique<int>(20);
std::unique_ptr<int> ptr2 = std::move(ptr1);
// Now ptr1 is nullptr and ptr2 owns the memory.