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javascriptmacosnode.jsdesktop-application

Packaging a Node.js web application as a normal desktop application

I've searched a bit, but I can't find an existing tool for this.

I have a Node.js web server that is designed to run on your own computer that does some snazzy things for you. It would be pretty awesome if I could double click MySnazzyThing.app instead of installing Node.js, and npm and running node mysnazzyapp.js on the command line.

The .app executable would spool up the Node.js server and open a simple native WebKit window which would show what would normally be on localhost:3000 if I were running on the command line.

This native application could then, say, be distributed through the Mac App Store. And bam, a Node.js desktop application.

Does any such tool exist? Or are there any technical reasons that this wouldn't work as I imagine it?

Solution

  • You can accomplish this using AppJS.