OpenCove provides an infinite spatial canvas designed for developers working with AI coding agents, terminals, tasks, and notes. It addresses the challenge of managing complex AI-driven workflows by moving beyond traditional tabbed or linear interfaces, offering a visual workspace where all project components remain visible and accessible. This enhances context retention, parallel task monitoring, and overall workflow organization for power users and early adopters of AI development tools.

How It Works

Built on Electron with React and TypeScript, OpenCove utilizes an infinite 2D canvas powered by @xyflow/react for fluid spatial arrangement. It integrates full-fledged terminal emulation using xterm.js and node-pty, enabling direct interaction with CLI-native AI agents like Claude Code and Codex. This spatial approach allows users to visualize planning, execution, and results side-by-side, maintaining context and facilitating the comparison of multiple agent sessions without the cognitive overhead of constant context switching inherent in linear chat histories or tabbed interfaces.

Quick Start & Requirements

Prebuilt binaries are available on the GitHub Releases page. For building from source, prerequisites include Node.js >= 22 and pnpm >= 9 (recommended). Global installation of AI agents like Claude Code or Codex is advised for full functionality. OpenCove supports macOS, Windows, and Linux. Note that current macOS builds are unsigned and may require running xattr -dr com.apple.quarantine /Applications/OpenCove.app to bypass Gatekeeper. Building from source involves cloning the repository, running pnpm install, and then pnpm dev.

Highlighted Details

• Infinite spatial canvas for arranging terminals, notes, tasks, and agent sessions.
• Optimized for terminal-native agent workflows, including Claude Code and Codex.
• Persistent workspaces that restore layout, terminal output, and agent state across restarts.
• Space archives for snapshotting and revisiting previous workspace states.
• Global search functionality across the canvas and terminal output.
• Workspace isolation using directories and git worktrees for project separation.

Maintenance & Community

OpenCove is an open-source project seeking community contributions. Guidelines for contributing, a code of conduct, and support information are available via linked documents. A QR code in the README directs users to a community group for discussion and support.

Licensing & Compatibility

The project is licensed under the MIT License, which generally permits commercial use and integration into closed-source projects without significant restrictions.

Limitations & Caveats

OpenCove is currently in an Alpha state, indicating it is experimental and may contain rough edges or bugs. macOS builds are not signed or notarized, requiring manual user intervention to run. As an alpha product, users should expect ongoing development and potential instability.