Ghostwriter
FreeAn AI-powered pair programmer by replit.
FreeFree tier
Inputs: codeOutputs: code, text
About Ghostwriter
Ghostwriter is Replit's AI-powered pair programmer that integrates state-of-the-art machine learning into its IDE. It offers real-time code completion (Complete Code), code generation, transformation, and explanation, as well as an in-editor search utility for finding and importing open-source code without leaving the editor. Based on open-source Large Language Models like Salesforce's CodeGen, Ghostwriter is optimized for low latency (median response time under 400ms) and is designed to work seamlessly on mobile devices. It aims to accelerate development, reduce boilerplate, and make coding more accessible.
Key Features
Complete Code: real-time AI-powered code completion as you type
Code generation, transformation, and explanation tools
In-editor search to find and import open-source code (like StackOverflow in your editor)
Optimized for low latency (median response time under 400ms)
Mobile-friendly with swipe-to-accept gesture
Built on open-source LLMs (e.g., Salesforce CodeGen) with custom optimizations (FasterTransformer, Triton server)
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Extremely fast code completion (claimed 2-3x faster than GitHub Copilot)
- Deeply integrated into the Replit IDE, requiring no setup
- Works well on mobile devices, enhancing mobile coding experience
- Based on open-source models, allowing for transparent optimization and community involvement
- Includes multiple AI features beyond completion: generation, transformation, explanation, and code search
Cons
- Tied to the Replit platform; cannot be used with other IDEs
- May occasionally produce incorrect or low-quality suggestions (common limitation of LLM-based tools)
- Requires an internet connection for AI inference
- Initially launched in closed beta (now generally available but may have usage limits)
Best For
Speeding up everyday software development by reducing boilerplate codeLearning new programming languages or frameworks faster with inline code suggestionsWriting and editing code on mobile devicesExplaining complex code snippets for understanding or debuggingSearching for and importing open-source libraries without leaving the editor
FAQ
What is Ghostwriter?
Ghostwriter is an AI-powered pair programmer developed by Replit that provides real-time code completion, code generation, transformation, explanation, and in-editor code search within the Replit IDE.
How fast is Ghostwriter's code completion?
Ghostwriter achieves a median response time of under 400ms, making it one of the fastest code completion tools. User testimonials on the blog claim it is 2-3 times faster than GitHub Copilot.
Is Ghostwriter available now?
Yes, the blog post update indicates Ghostwriter is now generally available and can be activated in the Replit IDE.
Does Ghostwriter work on mobile?
Yes, Ghostwriter is optimized for mobile devices and includes a swipe-right gesture to accept code completions, making coding on mobile enjoyable.
How was Ghostwriter built?
Ghostwriter is built on open-source Large Language Models such as Salesforce CodeGen, and uses optimization techniques like FasterTransformer and Nvidia's Triton inference server to achieve low latency.