SamwiseOS - The Little OS That Could

Core Features

What Makes SamwiseOS Special

AI-Powered Shell

Interact with the OS using natural language. The `gemini` command can use system tools to answer questions, and commands like `forge` and `storyboard` can generate and analyze code for you.

Hybrid Kernel

A robust, sandboxed Python kernel running in WebAssembly handles core logic, while a nimble JavaScript frontend interacts with browser APIs for a secure and powerful experience.

Persistent File System

Your files, users, and groups are saved locally and securely to your browser's IndexedDB, making the OS offline-first and entirely self-contained after initial load.

The "effect" Contract

The Magic of the Hybrid Kernel

The Python kernel and JavaScript frontend communicate through a simple, powerful contract. When a command needs to interact with the browser (like playing a sound or showing a file prompt), the Python kernel validates the request and returns a JSON object called an `effect`.

This keeps our core logic clean and secure within Python while leveraging the browser's full capabilities for a rich, interactive experience.

// User runs: play C4 4n
// Python Kernel returns this 'effect':

{
  "effect": "play_sound",
  "notes": [
    "C4"
  ],
  "duration": "4n"
}

Getting Started

Your Field Guide to SamwiseOS

SamwiseOS is designed for everyone. Whether you want to have a conversation with an AI or you prefer to type `ls -la`, the power is in your hands.

>_

The Command Line

For the traditionalists, SamwiseOS offers a powerful POSIX-like command line with a rich set of commands. Manage files, users, and processes with familiar tools like `ls`, `cd`, `grep`, and `sudo`.

The AI Assistant

For the conversationalists, the `gemini` command is your gateway to an AI that can use the OS for you. Ask it to "find all text files in my home directory and zip them up," and it will formulate and execute the plan.

Graphical Apps

For the visual thinkers, SamwiseOS supports a growing suite of graphical applications. Run `edit` for a text editor, `paint` for an ASCII art studio, or `top` for a real-time process viewer, all without leaving the terminal.

Our Next Five Parks

The Road Ahead

🧠

The AI Town Manager

Enhance the AI with long-term memory, advanced tool use, and the ability to self-correct its own plans.

🎨

The Creative Suite

Expand our suite of GUI apps with a collaborative code editor, a spreadsheet app, and a presentation tool.

🤝

The Social Fabric

Implement peer-to-peer file sharing and an encrypted chat client using WebRTC.

🔌

The Hardware Bridge

Integrate WebUSB/WebBluetooth for game controllers and WebGPU for accelerated graphics.

🏛️

The Town Hall

Focus on community, polish, and long-term sustainability with a theming engine and a developer SDK.