Desktop app

What the desktop app adds

The Iterel desktop app provides the same workspace as the browser version, plus full native development capabilities for the code section.

Browser vs. desktop comparison

Code execution

• Browser — runs code in a sandboxed environment. Supports npm, TypeScript, and web frameworks. Cannot run native binaries or system commands.
• Desktop — runs code with a real Node.js environment. Full access to npm, system commands, native binaries, and the local file system.

Terminal

• Browser — a sandboxed shell with limited commands
• Desktop — a full system terminal with access to all installed tools

File system

• Browser — virtual file system within the sandbox
• Desktop — real file system access for reading and writing local files

Performance

The desktop app generally offers better performance for large projects because it is not constrained by browser memory limits.

Everything else is the same

All other features — research, strategy, creative direction, flows, design, collaboration, and the Conductor — work identically in both the browser and desktop versions.

When to use which

• Browser — quick access from any device, no installation needed. Good for design, research, strategy, and most workflow tasks.
• Desktop — better for heavy engineering work, projects requiring native tools, and when you need full terminal access.