A smart pointer is an abstract data type that simulates a pointer, providing additional features for accessing objects and managing memory at run-time, for example, automatic destroying of unused objects, throwing of exceptions, inspecting owners, or checking bounds.

For more details, see topics:

Concept of Smart Pointers

Overview of Classes that Implement Smart Pointers

Creating an Empty Implementation of the Reference Counter

Using an Empty Implementation of the Reference Counter

Creating a Standard Implementation of the Reference Counter

Using the Standard Implementation of the Reference Counter

Example of Counting References

Implementing Smart Pointers

Functionality of Smart Pointers

Example of Assigning Smart Pointers

Example of a Typified Smart Pointer

Example of a Non-Typified Smart Pointer