Build Daily
Tinley Park · August 23, 2026The coolest thing I have ever done with coding agents...
The creator shares how they used AI coding agents to customize an open-source video editor by adding missing keyboard shortcuts and building custom packages without knowing C++.
The outline
Tap a timestamp to jump there in the video.
Introduction
The creator introduces a casual, inspirational session about using coding agents with open source software.
Customizing Shortcut
They show their customized fork of the MLT framework's Shortcut video editor written in C++.
Demonstrating Features
The creator demonstrates how they added keyboard shortcuts to jump half a second and navigate between audio segments and silences.
AI Agent Workflow
They explain that the features were implemented by describing the desired functionality to an AI coding agent in their local directory.
Problem Formulation
The creator highlights the importance of defining terms like meaningful silence and sound so the AI can understand the programming task.
Package Building
They describe how they used the agent to create a package build script for Arch Linux and prepare it for submission to the AUR.
Maintenance Process
The creator explains that maintaining this custom version requires rebasing against upstream updates and rebuilding the package.
Open Source Benefits
They conclude by arguing that AI agents make open-source software more customizable, encouraging users to build their own versions of tools like MyPaint.
Coding agents, when paired with open source, shift the role of a solo builder from sole executor to strategic orchestrator. This approach reduces repetitive tasks, allowing focus on higher-level design and problem-solving. The real value lies in scaling creativity through automation, not replacing it.