How Nova8 works

Last updated May 3, 2026 [email protected]

Nova8 is not a low-code builder, a hybrid framework, or a webview wrapper. It is a code-generating AI agent that writes real Swift and SwiftUI, then compiles and ships it through the same toolchain Apple uses.

The pipeline

1. Prompt. You describe what you want. The agent parses intent, asks clarifying questions when needed, and produces a plan.
2. Generate. The agent writes Swift, SwiftUI, and supporting code (Info.plist, entitlements, asset catalogs) into a real Xcode-compatible project structure. Each file is committed to a private project workspace.
3. Compile (preview). The project is compiled in a cloud iOS Simulator so you can interact with the app inside the browser within seconds. This is the same simulator engine Apple ships in Xcode.
4. Compile (release). When you ship to TestFlight, EAS Build compiles the project on managed macOS runners with the toolchain you would use locally. Output: a code-signed .ipa.
5. Deliver. The signed .ipa is uploaded directly to App Store Connect via Apple’s Transporter API. From there TestFlight or App Store Review picks it up.

Models

Nova8 uses Anthropic Claude (Sonnet for most tasks, Opus for harder ones). Sonnet is the default because it is fast and writes excellent Swift; Opus is available on paid plans for complex multi-file refactors and tricky integration work.

What you own

• Your code. Every generated file is yours. Pro and Studio plans include one-tap GitHub push so you can take the project elsewhere.
• Your app. The App Store listing, Apple Developer account, and TestFlight builds are all under your name.
• Your data. Project content lives in your Nova8 workspace; secrets you paste are encrypted with Google Cloud KMS envelope encryption.

What we run for you

What you do not need

• A Mac. Everything compiles in the cloud.
• Xcode installed locally. Optional, only if you want to inspect the project yourself.
• A development environment. Builds run on managed runners.