Pax is a Rust-based UI engine and integrated vector design tool that enables cross-platform application development for web, macOS, and iOS. It targets developers and designers seeking a more creative and accessible approach to UI creation, particularly those interested in AI-assisted design and coding.

How It Works

Pax combines a visual vector design tool (Pax Designer) with a cross-platform UI engine. Designer reads and writes UI definitions as code, facilitating a direct link between visual design and implementation. The engine leverages GPU rendering for vector graphics and a responsive layout system with pixel and percentage units. Its expression language allows for spreadsheet-like data binding, enhancing dynamic logic and AI integration.

Quick Start & Requirements

• Install Pax Designer locally via the "Get Started" instructions in the documentation.
• Requires Rust.
• See docs.pax.dev for detailed instructions.

Highlighted Details

• Integrated vector design tool that reads/writes UI code.
• Cross-platform native support (Web: Beta, macOS/iOS: Alpha, Windows/Linux/Android: Planned).
• GPU rendering for vector graphics (behind gpu feature flag).
• Animation engine supports animating properties at high frame rates.
• Expression language for dynamic data binding and AI integration.

Maintenance & Community

• Project status is Beta, with ongoing development and public collaboration.
• Community Discord available for discussions and feature requests.
• Contributions are welcomed via GitHub.

Licensing & Compatibility

• Licensed under MIT or Apache 2.0 license, at your option.
• Permissive licenses allow for commercial use and integration with closed-source projects.

Limitations & Caveats

The macOS and iOS targets are in Alpha and lag behind the Web target in features like occlusion and clipping. The project is still in Beta, meaning rough edges, potential bugs, and breaking changes are possible before version 1.0. The current WASM footprint is 2-3x the target of 100KB.