Amfora: A Gemini Client for the Terminal
Amfora is an innovative project designed to enhance your browsing experience within the terminal environment. It stands out as a feature-rich client specifically tailored for the Gemini protocol, focusing on aesthetics and functionality without extending support to other non-Web protocols like Gopher—those can be explored via alternatives like Bombadillo.
Cross-Platform Compatibility
One of the key highlights of Amfora is its commitment to being fully cross-platform, ensuring compatibility across various operating systems, including full support for Windows. It is strongly recommended for Windows users to use the Windows Terminal with UTF-8 support for optimal performance and to circumvent any coloration issues.
Project Status
Amfora is currently in maintenance mode, where the creator is open to implementing bug fixes and possibly incorporating new features contributed by the community. This phased development approach ensures that Amfora remains stable while gradually improving over time.
Installation Guide
Amfora offers several installation methods:
-
Binary Installation: Users can download a pre-compiled binary suited for their operating system. On Unix-based systems, a few commands will make Amfora executable and easy to access. Windows users may need to configure their installations to allow the application to run properly.
-
Linux Distributions: Amfora is packaged in various Linux distributions, simplifying installation for Linux users.
-
macOS Options: Users have the flexibility to install Amfora through Homebrew or MacPorts, each method providing easy means to install, update, and maintain the application.
-
Termux on Android: Special instructions are available for Android users through Termux, utilizing
proot
for proper execution within a chroot environment. -
From Source: For advanced users, Amfora can be built from the source code, allowing access to the latest developments. This requires command-line skills and some dependencies like Go and GNU Make.
Extensive Features
Amfora is packed with features aimed at enhancing the browsing experience in the terminal:
- URL browsing with robust error handling and TOFU (Trust On First Use)
- Tabbed browsing, mimicking modern web browsers
- ANSI color code support for vibrant page styling, functional even on Windows
- Forward/backward navigation history for each tab
- Support for various charsets (over 55)
- Built-in search capabilities utilizing geminispace.info
- Bookmark management
- Capability to download web pages and data
- A theming system with support for user-contributed themes
- Proxying capabilities for different protocols like Gopher and HTTP through a Gemini server
- Support for client certificates, with planned enhancements for better user experience
- Subscription to RSS, Atom, and JSON feeds
- Ability to open or stream non-text files in external applications
- Embedded code syntax highlighting for enhanced readability
Future Plans
Some features are on the roadmap for future inclusion, such as stream support, on-page search functionalities, and enhancements to history management.
Usage and Configuration
Detailed instructions and configuration guides are available on the project's wiki, helping users optimize their Amfora experience.
Open Source Libraries
Amfora leverages several open-source libraries to deliver its rich features, fostering a community-driven development ethos.
License
Amfora operates under the GPL v3.0 license, ensuring that it remains free and open for community contributions and improvements.
Overall, Amfora is a highly customizable and comprehensive Gemini client, providing a powerful yet user-friendly tool for terminal enthusiasts to explore the digital world.