cables.gl (often called “cables”) is a visual programming environment for creating interactive graphics, motion, 3D, and audiovisual applications. It uses a node-based interface where operators are connected with “cables” to build real-time patches that run in the browser or offline via a desktop client.
cables.gl is developed by undev, a creative studio with roots in the demoscene and interactive digital art. The project is led by Thomas Kombüchen (known as *pandur*), who is its founder and principal developer, and cofounder of undev. Another core contributor is **Stephan Maihöfer** (*steam*), who works on backend systems and APIs.
# History The idea behind cables.gl grew out of combining visual programming traditions (such as Pure Data, TouchDesigner, and vvvv) with modern web technologies like WebGL and JavaScript. It was designed to make real-time visual programming accessible through the browser, with an emphasis on portability and sharing.
# Features cables.gl allows users to build interactive audiovisual works entirely in the browser. It supports 3D model imports, shaders, video and audio inputs, browser APIs, post-processing effects, and embedding patches into websites. Its interface is designed for usability, with auto-wiring, color-coded operators, and subpatching for complex projects.
Because patches run on WebGL, they are portable and lightweight, making them easy to share and embed.
# Open Source and Desktop Client In 2024, cables.gl was released as open source under the MIT license. Alongside this change, the developers launched a standalone desktop client, allowing creators to work offline without a browser. Support from the NLnet NGI0 Entrust Fund helped make this transition possible.
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Introduction to the standalone client -youtube.com 
The standalone client is based on Electron and runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux. It allows local file access, integration with media assets, and a fullscreen mode. Updates in 2025 expanded video support and improved file system integration. The desktop client mirrors the browser version closely, with patches and operators compatible across both environments.
- cdm.link
- github.com
- blog.cables.gl
# Community and Use
cables.gl is widely used for generative art, interactive websites, data visualization, and live audiovisual installations. The “Made With Cables” gallery highlights projects across commercial and artistic contexts. The tool has also been adopted in education, where its browser-based design lowers barriers for teaching creative coding.
- cables.gl/made-with-cables
- blog.cables.gl