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Nova

Compass AI · Terminal & CLI Agents · Updated
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Nova is an AI-powered developer agent that provides planning, editing, and execution capabilities directly from your terminal. It supports multi-model flexibility, persistent session management, and deep repository context to handle complex software tasks safely.

Recent releases introduced a local live observability dashboard and the 'nova doctor' utility for system health checks and safe repair flows.

As of

  • Multi-model support including Anthropic, OpenAI, and local Ollama
  • Persistent agentic workflows for planning, editing, and verifying code
  • Three-tier approval system for secure execution of shell and file operations
  • Extensible via MCP servers, custom slash commands, and an agent skills ecosystem
  • Cross-interface synchronization across terminal, desktop, and web surfaces
✓ Best For

Developers who need a local-first, highly configurable AI agent that integrates deeply with their existing repository, Git workflows, and custom automation requirements.

✗ Not Ideal For

Users who prefer a cloud-locked, zero-configuration 'chat box' experience, or those working in environments where local execution of AI-managed shell and file-system tools is restricted.

Open Source

Nova is open-source (Apache-2.0). Usage depends on your chosen model provider (e.g., Anthropic, OpenAI, or local Ollama), which may involve third-party costs.

Nova is a highly capable, production-focused CLI tool that prioritizes developer control, safety, and deep integration over simple chatbot functionality, making it an excellent choice for power users.
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Is Nova free?

Yes - Nova is Open Source. Nova is open-source (Apache-2.0). Usage depends on your chosen model provider (e.g., Anthropic, OpenAI, or local Ollama), which may involve third-party costs.

Is Nova open source?

Yes - Nova is open source. Nova is open-source (Apache-2.0). Usage depends on your chosen model provider (e.g., Anthropic, OpenAI, or local Ollama), which may involve third-party costs.

Who is Nova best for?

Developers who need a local-first, highly configurable AI agent that integrates deeply with their existing repository, Git workflows, and custom automation requirements.

Who is Nova not ideal for?

Users who prefer a cloud-locked, zero-configuration 'chat box' experience, or those working in environments where local execution of AI-managed shell and file-system tools is restricted.

What are the best Nova alternatives?

The closest Nova alternatives on ai.dosa.dev are Claude Code, Codex CLI, Amp - all listed under Terminal & CLI Agents.

Who makes Nova?

Nova is developed by Compass AI. It is listed in the Terminal & CLI Agents category on ai.dosa.dev.

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Content on this page is AI-generated. Please verify details with the vendor's website for accuracy.