This article describes some differences between GeneXus Next Desktop and GeneXus 18 or prior (the one you have been using since GeneXus X).
GeneXus Next Desktop runs on Mac, Linux or Windows. Remember that GeneXus 18 only runs on Windows.
GeneXus Next Desktop runs on Docker, while GeneXus 18 runs on .Net Framework 4.x.
Both use the power of your desktop or laptop. They store the KBs and programs locally, build everything locally, and let you choose whether to deploy locally or to the cloud. They don't require you to be online.
You will be assisted by AI when using GeneXus Next Desktop. As of August 2024, a specific tool window called "AI Assistant" helps you create objects such as Transaction objects, Procedure Objects, and Query objects. It will help you create and improve any object in the future. In addition, when you write "///" on any text editor, GeneXus will trigger assistance to write code.
GeneXus Next Desktop is the only one built to support Generative AI and the use of Large Language models (GeneXus Enterprise AI under the hood).
GeneXus Next Desktop provides an improved language for describing business objects and queries. You can code using AI assistants while writing in natural language or using text or rich editors. Also, you are always assisted with the latest techniques for the best Developer Experience. GeneXus 18 emphasizes just on rich editors and drag & drop.
GeneXus Next Desktop is Dark. GeneXus 18 is not (and you can customize its style).
GeneXus Next |GeneXus Next Desktop's design system is called Mercury. That of GeneXus 18 is its predecessor, called Gemini.
GeneXus Next Desktop is very fast and should improve performance on all tasks when running it. Actions like editing large Web Panels that used to take minutes now take just seconds.
GeneXus Next Desktop is not complete yet. For example, as of August 2024, you cannot build (specify, generate, compile) and run or apply Patterns provided by third parties. You can find more details at GeneXus Next - Known limitations.