I don't see a reason to compromise. It would take no longer to call extension_loaded on each page request than it will to put the variable in the session. You're right in saying that there's a balance to be struck, but in this particular case I personally see a right way and a wrong way and no compromise needed to do it properly.
I think the "discussion" has moved beyond extension_loaded(), but in that case, yes, personally I would use extension_loaded() directly. Probably in a factory type function which returns the appropriate type of object.
I couldn't care less what your domain name is, you're still advocating a poor choice IMHO.
Practical though. And I'm conscientious as far as business allows.
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Richard Heyes
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