Customize your app with a coding agent

Every NewcombLabs app comes with its full source code, so you can change it however you like. A coding agent like Claude Code or Codex does the coding for you: you describe what you want in plain English, and it makes the change. The basic idea is the same for both: create a project, point it at your app's installation folder, and start asking for changes.

Before you start

Install and set up your app first, following its included guide, and make sure it runs.
Know where the app's folder is on your computer. That's the folder you'll point the agent at.
Make a backup copy of the folder before your first change, so you can always go back.

Option 1

Claude Code

Anthropic's coding agent. You'll need a Claude account.

Install Claude Code. Follow Anthropic's official setup guide and sign in with your Claude account.
Create a project in your app's folder. In the Claude desktop app, start a new Claude Code session and choose your app's installation folder. If you use the terminal instead, go to the folder and run claude.
Describe what you want. For example: "Add a panel that shows my kid's soccer schedule." Claude Code reads the app's code, explains its plan and makes the change.
Restart the app to see the change.

Option 2

Codex

OpenAI's coding agent. You'll need a ChatGPT account.

Install Codex. Follow OpenAI's official setup guide and sign in with your ChatGPT account.
Create a project in your app's folder. In the Codex app, add a new project and choose your app's installation folder. If you use the terminal instead, go to the folder and run codex.
Describe what you want. For example: "Add a section for our boat with its registration and service reminders." Codex reads the app's code and makes the change.
Restart the app to see the change.

Tips for good results

Start small. One change at a time is easier to check than five at once.
Ask it to explain first. Try "Explain how this app is organized" before your first change.
Be specific. Say what you want to see, where it should appear and when it should update.
If something breaks, say so. Paste the error or describe what went wrong, and ask the agent to fix it. Your backup is there if you need it.
Keep your API keys private. Don't paste them into a chat; keep them in the app's settings or configuration file.

Claude Code and Codex are made by Anthropic and OpenAI, not NewcombLabs, and their setup steps can change. If anything here doesn't match what you see, follow their official guides. Questions about your app? Email [email protected].