Koder Turns The iPad Into A Useful Code Editor
Koder ($5.99) by iCodeLabs is the answer for anyone who wants to code on their iPad. The editor works for programming PHP, CSS, Javascript, and HTML. It features tools such as snippets and commonly used keyboard shortcuts which are customized for working in the iPad’s touch environment.
You can access and upload your project and files locally or through FTP, Dropbox, or iDisk. The file manager allows you to create new projects and then add folders or files inside it. The files are tabbed in the editor for quickly switching back and forth.
In addition, tools are provided to facilitate using the touch-based app.
The snippet tool provides some common commands, or you can add your own. Simply touch the snippet you want and it dumps the code into your editor.
The “Extra Keyboard” has frequently used characters accessible above the display keyboard. Swiping left or right will show different sets of shortcuts, depending on what language you’re using.
The preview tool is quite versatile as well. It will show your project in HTML and you can also use it as a web browser. Hit the view source button for a look at the underlying code of any website.
You can modify some of the editor’s aesthetics, including the font and font size. The editor’s theme can change from the default to “Kodekai,” if you find programming easier against a dark background.
The app includes an online manual, should you want to see an overview before getting started. However, the manual’s helpfulness is limited, especially once you get into the thick of things.
One drawback to using an editor in a touch environment is if you need to go back through the code to edit. Making a mistake in one line of code means having to touch the spot you want to modify. This can sometimes prove to be tedious, especially if the cursor doesn’t go where you want it. The find and replace tool may become useful for making corrections, though the best tool in my opinion is a Bluetooth keyboard.
Koder’s simple yet efficient interface is designed for touch editing. At just $5.99, you get an editor with a well-designed interface at a great price. If you want to code with your trusty iPad, then Koder is for you.
