Catalyst UI
A multi-vendor AI workbench built as a native desktop application. Manage terminals, browse models, track costs, and integrate with GitHub and Hugging Face — all from a single window.
Overview
Catalyst UI started as a way to put a proper interface on top of AI CLI tools. It grew into a full workbench that handles multi-session terminal management, model browsing, cost tracking, GitHub workflows, and more — all packaged as a native desktop app with cross-platform installers.
The sidebar holds 16+ panels, each handling a different piece of the workflow. Terminals run through xterm.js and node-pty for real PTY support. GitHub integration uses Octokit. Models are searchable through the Hugging Face Hub API.
Panels
Terminal
Multi-session terminal management with real PTY via xterm.js and node-pty. Tabs, split panes, and persistent sessions across restarts.
Commands
Saved command library with quick-launch. Tag, search, and organize frequently used commands for different projects and workflows.
Files
Built-in file browser with workspace awareness. Navigate project directories without switching to an external file manager.
Cost Tracking
Monitor API token usage and cost across AI providers. Per-session and cumulative breakdowns with configurable budget alerts.
GitHub
Full GitHub integration via Octokit. Browse repos, view issues and PRs, check Actions status, and manage releases without leaving the app.
Hugging Face
Browse and search models on the Hugging Face Hub. View model cards, check downloads and licensing, and copy model IDs for use in your workflows.
Brain
Context and memory management for AI sessions. Track what the model knows, manage context windows, and control compression behavior.
Settings
Centralized configuration for API keys, model preferences, theme customization, terminal behavior, and panel layout across the entire workbench.
Downloads
Native installers for every major platform. Built and signed via GitHub Actions.
Tech Stack
Architecture
- Electron main process handles system-level operations, PTY spawning, and IPC
- React renderer with sidebar panel routing and lazy-loaded components
- Vite for fast HMR during development and optimized production builds
- TypeScript 6.0 across the entire codebase
- Cross-platform packaging via electron-builder (NSIS, DMG, AppImage, deb, rpm)