Alex Sidebar’s chat feature enables code discussions and improvements in Xcode running on the side. By prompting your queries, you can assist your coding process and resolve issues more quickly.

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Quick Actions

Command + L

Select code in Xcode or text in supported browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Arc, Safari) to start a new chat. The selected content will automatically be added as a reference.

Browser Integration

When used in browsers, it automatically adds the webpage URL to context and includes any selected text (supported in Chrome and Arc browsers).

Command + Shift + L

Add selected code to your existing chat without opening a new window. Perfect for building context incrementally.

Command + Enter

Start a chat with entire codebase as context. Useful for high-level questions about your project.

@ Commands

Access documentation, add more files and more using the @ menu in your chat.

Image Support

Copy-paste or drag images directly into chat for design analysis and code generation. Perfect for UI discussions and visual debugging.

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Getting Started

1

Select Code

In Xcode’s editor window, highlight the code you want to discuss or improve.

Providing relevant code context helps the AI better understand your question and provide more accurate responses.

2

Start Chat

Select code and press Command + L to start a chat.

Additional ways to start a chat:

  • Click the chat (plus) icon in the top right of the sidebar
  • Use Command + Enter for a new chat with full codebase context
3

Add Context

The more relevant context you provide, the more accurate and helpful the responses will be.

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Context Management

History Management

  • Chats are automatically saved
  • Access previous chats from history
  • Clear individual history

Multi-File Support

  • Reference multiple files in one chat
  • Generate changes for multiple files

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Common Use Cases

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Applying Changes

Apply

  • Smart and fast code diff
  • Handles both simple and complex changes
  • Chunks mode enabled by default for better handling
  • Quick Apply for instant changes without diff panel
  • Fast-forward button (⏩) for instant application
  • Perfect for all types of code modifications from quick fixes to refactoring

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Think First Mode

The “Think First” option combines DeepSeek R1’s reasoning capabilities with Claude’s responses for the best possible results. When enabled:

  1. DeepSeek R1 first reasons about the problem using thinking tokens
  2. This analysis is then used to guide Claude’s response
  3. Results in more thorough and accurate solutions

Think First mode can be toggled for individual messages using the “Think first” option under each message input.

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Best Practices

Writing Effective Prompts

  • Be specific about what you want
  • Provide necessary context
  • Use appropriate commands
  • Break complex questions into smaller parts

Managing Context

  • Keep context focused and relevant
  • Remove unnecessary files
  • Update context when switching tasks
  • Clear context for new topics

Need more detailed guidance? Learn more about best practices in our Best Practices guide.

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Web Search Integration

The Web button in chat provides access to curated iOS development resources. When enabled:

  • Automatically searches popular iOS development blogs
  • Finds relevant GitHub repositories and discussions
  • Retrieves up-to-date documentation and examples
  1. Click the “Web” button in chat
  2. Alex searches relevant iOS resources
  3. Results are automatically added as context
  4. Get responses based on the latest information

The web search feature ensures you get the most current solutions and best practices from the iOS development community.

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