Git Overview
Deskless includes a full-featured Git client powered by libgit2—a real Git implementation, not a command-line wrapper. Clone repos, commit changes, manage branches, and push to remote—all from your iPad or iPhone.
The Git Panel
Access all Git features by tapping the branch icon in the toolbar. The Git Panel has four tabs:
| Tab | What you can do |
|---|---|
| Commit | Stage files, view diffs, write commit messages |
| Branches | Create, switch, and delete branches |
| History | Browse commit log with full diff preview |
| Sync | Push and pull changes to/from remote |
Everyday Workflow
1. Make Your Changes
Edit files as usual. The Git Panel shows changed files with status indicators:
| Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| M | Modified — existing file changed |
| A | Added — new file |
| D | Deleted — file removed |
| ? | Untracked — not yet in Git |
2. Stage What You Want to Commit
Tap the + icon next to individual files, or tap Stage All to stage everything.
Pro Tip: Tap a file to view its diff, then stage specific hunks if you only want to commit part of a file.
3. Write a Commit Message
Enter a clear, descriptive message explaining your changes. Good commit messages make history easier to navigate.
4. Commit
Tap Commit to save your changes to the local repository.
5. Push to Remote
When you’re ready to share, tap Push in the Sync tab to upload commits to your remote repository.
Browsing History
The History tab shows all commits on the current branch. Tap any commit to see:
- Commit message and metadata (author, date, hash)
- List of files changed
- Full diff for each file
Working with Branches
Create a New Branch
- Open the Branches tab
- Tap the + button
- Enter a branch name
- Tap Create
Switch Branches
Tap any branch name to check it out. Your working directory updates immediately.
Delete a Branch
Swipe left on a branch and tap Delete. You can’t delete the branch you’re currently on.
Sync with Remote
The Sync tab shows how many commits you’re ahead or behind the remote:
- Push — Send your local commits to the remote
- Pull — Download and merge remote changes
Authentication uses your saved credentials (PAT or SSH key) automatically.
Stashing Changes
Need to switch branches but have uncommitted work? Use the stash:
| Action | How to do it |
|---|---|
| Create stash | Tap Stash in the Commit tab — saves all uncommitted changes |
| Apply stash | Tap a stash entry to restore changes |
| Drop stash | Swipe left on a stash entry and tap Delete |
Tip: Stashing is handy when you need to quickly switch context without committing half-finished work.
Swipe Actions Summary
Throughout the Git panel, swipe left for quick actions:
| Item | Swipe left action |
|---|---|
| Staged file | Unstage |
| Branch | Delete (if not current) |
| Stash entry | Drop stash |