Importerror: cannot import name 'feature' from 'setuptools'

Being a developer, it’s inevitable to encounter “ImportError: Cannot Import Name ‘Feature’ from ‘Setuptools‘” error.

Actually, this error is common among Python developers, especially those working with the setuptools library.

So this article, we’ll explore what causes this error and how to fix it.

What is Importerror: cannot import name ‘feature’ from ‘setuptools’?

This error Importerror: cannot import name ‘feature’ from ‘setuptools’ appears because Feature was a deprecated API that was removed, reintroduced, and then removed again.

Further, this error can occur when using an older version of a package that still tries to import Feature from setuptools. To fix this error upgrade the package causing the issue.

Causes of the Error cannot import name ‘feature’ from ‘setuptools’

The “ImportError: Cannot Import Name ‘Feature’ from ‘Setuptools‘” error message can be caused by a number of things, including:

1. Outdated Setuptools

One of the most common causes of this error is an outdated version of Setuptools.

Whenever you’re using an older version of Setuptools, it may not have the Feature module, which could lead to this error.

2. Conflicting Packages

Another possible cause of this error is conflicting packages.

If you have multiple versions of Setuptools installed, or if you have another package that has a module named Feature, it could cause this error.

3. Corrupt Installation

Finally, this error could be caused by a corrupt installation of Setuptools.

If any of the files or modules within Setuptools are corrupt, it could prevent Python from importing the Feature module.

How to fix Importerror: cannot import name ‘feature’ from ‘setuptools’?

Now that we know what kind of error and how this error occurs, it’s time to fix it.

1. Upgrading pip and setuptools to version 44.1.0

If you’re using an outdated version of Setuptools, upgrading to the latest version should fix the error.

You can upgrade Setuptools using the following command:

pip install --upgrade setuptools

This one might help also, try upgrading pip and setuptools to version 44.1.0.

All you have to do is to run the following command:

pip install --upgrade pip setuptools==44.1.0

Moreover, install version 45 of setuptools by running the command:

 pip3 install setuptools==45

2. Check for Conflicting Packages

If you have multiple versions of Setuptools installed, or if you have another package that has a module named Feature, you can try uninstalling the conflicting packages.

You can use the following command to uninstall a package:

pip uninstall package_name

3. Reinstall Setuptools

If you suspect that your Setuptools installation is corrupt, you can try reinstalling it.

You can uninstall Setuptools using the following command:

pip uninstall setuptools

And then install it again with:

pip install setuptools

Besides that, you could also try forcing the installation of the last previous version of setuptools supporting Feature.

Namely 45.3.0, in the requirements.txt file.

Anyway here are the fixed errors that can help you in case you encounter these issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Importerror: cannot import name ‘feature’ from ‘setuptools‘ error occurs because Feature support has been removed from the setuptools package after a long period of depreciation.

To fix this error, we should upgrade it to the latest version, or force install the setuptools version which still supports the feature.

I think that’s all for this error. I hoped this article has helped you fix the issue.

Until next time! 😊