Notepad.exe 1.4 Adds Linux Support

October 19, 2025

Independent developer Marcin Krzyzanowski today announced Notepad.exe 1.4, adding Linux support for Swift and Python work from macOS. Developers can write code on a Mac and run it against Linux targets without manually setting up a separate Linux machine.

Linux runs from the Mac

"Server-side Swift means Swift on Linux, but developing for Linux on a Mac has always been painful," says Krzyzanowski. "Version 1.4 handles the boring parts. You write code in Notepad.exe, run it, and see the Linux result."

The Linux support works for Swift and Python. It is useful for server-side Swift experiments, Python scripts that need to match a Linux deployment target, and small tests where platform behavior matters.

What is included

• Swift cross-compilation: Build Swift projects targeting Linux from macOS.
• Automatic setup: Swift toolchains and Linux SDKs download when needed.
• Python on Linux: Execute Python scripts in Linux environments.
• Linux execution: Code runs in Linux environments with caching.
• Platform column: The notes library shows macOS, iOS, and Linux targets.
• SDK management: Browse and manage Linux SDKs alongside Apple SDKs.
• Code intelligence: Completion and diagnostics work for Linux-targeted projects.

Platform-aware notes

The notes library now displays which platform each note targets. Developers can filter and sort by macOS, iOS, or Linux, which helps when the same editor holds scripts, app experiments, and server-side work.

"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 updates

Version 1.4 also includes editor changes:

• More accurate syntax highlighting.
• Refined completion layout and spacing.
• Icons in menus.
• Toolbar symbols for platforms.
• Improved table spacing and hover feedback.
• Direct note renaming from menus.

What this helps with

Linux support helps with common Mac development tasks:

• Server-side Swift development without a separate Linux machine.
• Testing the same code on macOS and Linux.
• Python scripting for Linux deployment targets.
• Learning platform differences by running code directly.
• Prototyping Linux deployments while staying on macOS.

Implementation

Version 1.4 manages container lifecycles, cross-compilation toolchains, caching, and SDK installation inside the app. The user sees a run command and output, not the setup work behind it.

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 a $19.99/year subscription, or a one-time lifetime license. Academic discounts are available for students and educators. See notepadexe.com/purchase for current pricing.

System requirements: macOS 15.0 (Sequoia) or later.

About Notepad.exe

Notepad.exe is a native macOS code editor for Swift, Python, iOS experiments, local AI assistance, Mac app export, and Linux-targeted development without starting in a full IDE.

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

Notepad.exe for Mac developers