AppCode Interface Builder

Question

Are there any plugins for AppCode so that I can edit and design the user interface like the Interface Builder in Xcode?

I prefer AppCode because it's customizable but it appears to me that it doesn't have its own Interface Builder.

Kaph

You are prefering AppCode no doubt, however Xcode has more features than AppCode if you can use Xcode it will be more fruitful to you. – Overhasty

Thank you! I hope Apple will bring more customizations to Xcode in the future. – Kaph

@GouravJoshi I don't think that's quite true -- each has their own strengths. Xcode is prettier and has some great iOS/macOS-specific tools (notably the Core Data Editor, Interface Builder for those who like it, nice integration with Instruments, etc). But AppCode has far superior code navigation, editing, generation and refactoring features. When you're used to creating code in AppCode, Xcode feels quite primitive. AppCode also has a better debugger than Xcode's. – Aenea

@Cris : Where I am saying that appcode is not good or not right to use...I am shared my opinion. If really it was a great idea then I will put this as answer not a comment. – Overhasty

@GouravJoshi No worries -- I'm just commenting for other readers here, to point out that Xcode and AppCode are both worth investigating. They have alternative approaches that will appeal to different people. – Aenea

@GouravJoshi ... not true. By now, i only use the toy (Xcode) to play certificates. I find rolling my own layouts by hand easier (by far) than fighting the Interface builder. – Ivied

Answer 1

No. JetBrains previously shipped a UI Designer plugin, but have stopped developing it.

For many projects you will be using AppCode in parallel with Xcode. Use each for its strengths: eg. AppCode for writing code, refactoring and debugging, Xcode for Interface Builder and Core Data models. There is an AppCode command Open Project in Xcode, for which you can easily add a keybinding in Prefs -> Keymap

There's no real disadvantage to using AppCode with Xcode as in order to build macOS/iOS projects you need Xcode installed anyway.

Aenea