Install kodelife with Homebrew Cask

Project links

• Homepage
• Package manager page

Commands and aliases

No executable aliases were found in the local package database.

Project history

Hexler began work on the project in 2010 under the name `codelife`, motivated by the lack of a fast launch-type-view workflow for shader development.

It evolved into KodeLife, a cross-platform and cross-API shader IDE that visually configures render and compute operations while passing shader source directly to the graphics driver without rewriting it.

Adoption history

Hexler positioned KodeLife for both graphics professionals who need rapid shader prototyping and beginners learning GPU programming.

The application grew into a native cross-platform tool supporting multiple graphics APIs and shader languages, with Syphon and Spout integration for live visual workflows.

How it is used

Users define render or compute passes, edit shader stages, configure textures and parameters visually, and see compiler feedback and rendered output immediately.

Projects can feed visuals to other applications through GPU-sharing systems such as Syphon or Spout, or export still images.

Why package nerds care

KodeLife packages a normally code-heavy GPU development loop into a compact native desktop application with immediate compilation and visual feedback.

It is of particular interest to creative coders, live-visual artists, shader authors, and graphics programmers who want an alternative to full game engines or browser-only shader playgrounds.

Timeline

• 2010: Work began under the name codelife.
• 2010s: The project evolved into the cross-platform KodeLife shader editor.
• 2020s: KodeLife supports native desktop releases for macOS, Windows, and Linux.

Related projects

• TouchOSC
• Protokol
• GLSL
• Metal
• Syphon
• Spout

Sources

• https://hexler.net/kodelife/docs
• https://hexler.net/kodelife/manual/getting-started
• https://hexler.net/kodelife/manual/introduction