What it does
Codewhale is an AI coding agent that runs in your terminal. You give it a task, and it reads the project, edits files and runs commands until the job is done or it needs your input.
It works with many AI providers (DeepSeek by default) and with models running on your own computer. It asks before running most commands, can undo your last request, and keeps "receipts" listing every file it changed and command it ran.
It has modes for planning only, doing the work, or pursuing a goal until it's verified, plus different permission levels.
Who it's for
Programmers who want a coding agent that isn't tied to one AI company.
Can I use it without coding?
Developers only. Installed with a terminal command and used inside code projects. New to this? Start here.
Can I run it?
- Cost
- Free, but needs an AI accountThe software is free, but it uses an online AI service (like OpenAI or Anthropic), which usually charges for use.
- Runs on
- Mac, Windows, Linux
- Computer
- An ordinary computer is fine
- Privacy
- Your choice: run it on your device or use an online service
- API key
- Not needed
Try it
- Install Codewhale with the installer for macOS, Linux or Windows.
- Start it inside a project folder, then pick an AI provider and paste its API key, or choose a local model.
- Type a task in plain English, such as fixing failing tests.
Using Claude Code, Cursor or another AI coding assistant? Paste the prompt and it will walk you through the setup.New to this?
Before you install
- Only download from the official GitHub page or the official download page above. Copies with similar names exist for many popular projects.
- License (MIT): Very permissive: free to use, change and share, including for business.
- More on staying safe