On the concept of inner function in Hardy and Bergman spaces in multiply connected domains

Abstract

We discuss the notion of an inner function for spaces of analytic functions in multiply connected domains in $${\mathbb {C}}$$ , giving a historical overview and comparing several possible definitions. We explore connections between inner functions, zero-divisors for Hardy spaces and Bergman spaces, and weighted reproducing kernels. After recording some obstructions and negative results, we suggest avenues for further research and point out several open problems.