Notepad.exe 1.4: Full Linux Support Brings Cross-Platform Swift and Python Development to macOS

October 19, 2025

Independent developer Marcin Krzyzanowski today announced the release of Notepad.exe 1.4, introducing comprehensive Linux support for both Swift and Python development. This major update enables developers to write and test code for Linux platforms directly from macOS, with all infrastructure managed automatically and transparently.

Cross-Platform Development, Simplified

"Server-side Swift means Swift on Linux, but developing for Linux on a Mac has always been painful," says Krzyzanowski. "Version 1.4 changes that. You write your code in Notepad.exe, hit run, and see it execute on Linux. Everything else - cross-compilation, virtual machine management, toolchain installation - happens automatically behind the scenes."

The new Linux support works for both Swift and Python, making Notepad.exe a true cross-platform development environment. Whether building server-side Swift applications or deploying Python scripts to Linux, developers can now prototype, test, and iterate entirely within macOS.

Key Features in Version 1.4

• Swift Cross-Compilation: Build Swift projects targeting Linux directly from macOS without manual toolchain setup
• Automatic Infrastructure: Swift toolchains and Linux SDKs download and install automatically when needed
• Python on Linux: Execute Python scripts in Linux environments alongside Swift development
• Real Linux Execution: Code runs in actual Linux environments with intelligent caching for optimal performance
• Platform Awareness: New platform column in notes library showing macOS, iOS, and Linux targets with dedicated icons
• SDK Management: Browse and manage Linux SDKs alongside macOS and iOS toolchains in unified interface
• Enhanced Code Intelligence: Full code completion and error detection for Linux development projects

Platform-Aware Development

Version 1.4 introduces comprehensive platform awareness throughout the application. The notes library now displays which platform each note targets, with filtering and sorting capabilities. Developers can easily manage code for macOS, iOS, and Linux in a single organized library.

"When you're juggling code across three platforms, you need visibility. The platform column and new icons make it instantly clear what you're working on, whether it's macOS, iOS, or Linux code."

Editor Enhancements

Beyond Linux support, version 1.4 includes significant editor improvements:

• Enhanced syntax highlighting for more accurate code coloring
• Refined code completion interface with improved layout and spacing
• Icons in menus for better visual navigation
• Updated toolbar with platform-specific symbols
• Improved table spacing and hover feedback throughout the UI
• Direct note renaming from menu options

Real-World Impact

The Linux support in Notepad.exe 1.4 enables several powerful workflows:

• Server-side Swift development without maintaining separate Linux machines
• Cross-platform testing by running identical code on macOS and Linux side-by-side
• Python scripting for Linux deployment with immediate feedback
• Learning platform differences through direct experimentation
• Prototyping Linux deployments while working in familiar macOS environment

Technical Implementation

Behind the simple "write and run" experience lies sophisticated infrastructure. Version 1.4 manages container lifecycles, handles cross-compilation toolchain resolution, implements intelligent caching, and coordinates automatic SDK installation - all transparently to the developer.

Availability

Notepad.exe 1.4 is available immediately as a free update for all existing users. New users can purchase at notepadexe.com with pricing starting at $19.99/year subscription or $79 for a lifetime license. Academic discounts are available for students and educators.

System requirements: macOS 15.0 (Sequoia) or later.

About Notepad.exe

Launched in May 2025, Notepad.exe has rapidly gained adoption among developers who value its zero-configuration approach to code editing. By eliminating setup friction and treating code like notes, it bridges the gap between heavyweight IDEs and simple text editors. With support for Swift, Python, iOS development, AI-powered assistance, app distribution, and now Linux cross-platform development, Notepad.exe continues to evolve as a comprehensive developer's playground.

High-resolution screenshots, logos, and additional press materials are available at notepadexe.com/press.

Notepad.exe: Your Developer's Playground