What it does
OpenCode is an AI coding agent, a helper that can read, explain and change the code in your software projects. It mainly runs in the terminal (the text-based command window on your computer). A desktop app is also available as a beta (an early test version).
It comes with two built-in agents you can switch between with the Tab key. The 'build' agent has full access and does development work. The 'plan' agent is read-only: it won't edit files by default and asks before running commands. This makes it useful for exploring unfamiliar code or planning changes.
There is also a 'general' helper agent for complex searches and multi-step tasks, which you can call by typing @general in a message.
Who it's for
Programmers who want an AI assistant to help them understand, plan and change code in their projects.
Can I use it without coding?
With some setup. You can install it with a one-line command, a package manager or the beta desktop app, but it is a tool for working on code. New to this? Start here.
Can I run it?
- Runs on
- Mac, Windows, Linux
Try it
- Open OpenCode inside a folder containing your code project.
- Press Tab to switch between the 'build' agent for making changes and the read-only 'plan' agent for exploring.
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. Copies with similar names exist for many popular projects.
- Plain-AyI is an independent guide and doesn't host or review the software it lists. Please check each project's official page before installing.
- License (MIT): Very permissive: free to use, change and share, including for business.
- More on staying safe
Where people are talking about it
- Anthropic takes legal action against OpenCodeHacker News · Mar 2026
- Anthropic blocks third-party use of Claude Code subscriptionsHacker News · Jan 2026