Neoism presents an open-source agent framework and native workspace built in Rust. The project combines a custom agent framework, a native code editor, a terminal, and notes into a single application. It is designed for users who want fewer windows and more possibilities, keeping workspace data local by default.
Native by Nature, Local by Default
The core philosophy of Neoism is 'Native by nature,' 'Local by default,' and 'Open by design.' The workspace includes a real shell and a native editor, consolidating everyday tools into one cohesive interface. The agent framework is built directly into the workspace, supporting sessions, subagents, and permissions without requiring external orchestration layers.
Multiplayer Without the Cloud Lock-in
Neoism offers a 'Multiplayer' capability that allows different screens to share the same workspace. This feature lets users share work without handing it to someone else's cloud. Self-hosting is available on your own machine or server. The FAQ notes that this is not an anonymous public workspace; users must read deployment and security guides before connecting clients. Data, including workspace context and conversations, is stored on your machine or the host you select.
Open Source and BYO Models
Neoism is free and open source under the MIT License, with source code available on GitHub. It does not add extra AI billing; costs are determined solely by the user's chosen AI provider. Users can connect supported providers and sign in with OAuth, or use compatible local models through a configured custom provider. Some providers may require an API key. This setup allows developers to choose their stack while using a unified, native experience.
Key Takeaways
- Neoism is a local-first, open-source (MIT) agent framework and IDE built in Rust.
- It integrates a native editor, terminal, and notes, eliminating the need for multiple windows.
- Users can bring their own models and avoid additional AI billing from the tool itself.
- Multiplayer sharing is supported via self-hosting, keeping data out of third-party clouds.
- The project emphasizes privacy, with workspace data stored locally or on user-selected servers.
The Bottom Line
Neoism aligns with its 'Open by design' philosophy, offering a native foundation for agentic coding that prioritizes local control and user choice over cloud dependency.