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Planelo

The idea-first hub for developers

2026-01-07

Product Introduction

  1. Definition: Planelo is a cross-platform (iOS, iPadOS, macOS) productivity tool designed for developers, functioning as an encrypted, API-driven workspace for capturing and structuring ideas before they evolve into projects. It operates in the technical category of developer-focused project management software, prioritizing idea incubation over task execution.
  2. Core Value Proposition: Planelo eliminates the friction between raw ideation and project execution by providing a secure, keyboard-optimized environment. Its core purpose is to replace scattered notes and cluttered project tools with a unified, automation-ready workspace—enabling indie developers to transform abstract concepts into actionable specs without compromising privacy or workflow speed. Primary keywords: developer idea management, encrypted project hub, API-driven productivity, indie developer tools.

Main Features

  1. Idea-First Capture & Structuring:

    • How it works: Users instantly log ideas via ⌘+N (Mac/iPad) or mobile input, categorizing them as "Ideas," "Specs," or "Projects." Drag-and-drop organization allows progression from unstructured sparks to executable plans.
    • Technologies: Native Apple frameworks (SwiftUI, Catalyst) for cross-device sync, coupled with a custom backend (planelo.app/v1) handling data routing.
  2. Encrypted Sync & Zero-Knowledge Architecture:

    • How it works: All data syncs via Planelo’s proprietary backend using AES-256 encryption at rest and TLS in transit. Zero-knowledge design ensures only the user can decrypt content—no third-party analytics or data sharing.
    • Technologies: AES-256 encryption, TLS 1.3, custom queuing system for offline edits.
  3. API Endpoints & Automation Integration:

    • How it works: Every idea/project generates a unique API endpoint. Developers use Pro-tier API keys (sk_live_...) to programmatically create/update items via cURL or scripts (e.g., POST /ideas with markdown/attachments).
    • Technologies: RESTful API architecture, OAuth-like key authentication, markdown parsing engine.

Problems Solved

  1. Pain Point: Traditional tools (e.g., Jira, Notion) force premature task conversion, fragmenting ideation across notes, task managers, and docs—killing creative momentum. Planelo solves idea fragmentation and premature formalization.
  2. Target Audience: Indie developers, solo founders, and technical builders managing multiple side projects (e.g., SaaS creators, open-source maintainers, hackathon participants).
  3. Use Cases:
    • Capturing coding sparks during development without breaking flow.
    • Structuring MVP specs before writing code.
    • Automating idea ingestion via CI/CD pipelines or AI agents using the API.

Unique Advantages

  1. Differentiation vs. Competitors: Unlike Notion (document-centric) or Trello (task-board rigidity), Planelo enforces an idea → spec → project workflow. It omits team collaboration bloat, focusing solely on individual builders’ pre-execution phases.
  2. Key Innovation: The fusion of end-to-end encryption with project-level APIs—enabling secure automation of early-stage creativity (e.g., auto-ingesting GitHub issues into Planelo as "Ideas" via webhooks).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. Does Planelo support team collaboration?
    Currently, Planelo is optimized for solo developers. Team sharing with granular roles is slated for later roadmap phases.

  2. How does Planelo’s API compare to Zapier integrations?
    Planelo’s native API provides direct, low-latency access to ideas/projects without middleware, using cURL-compatible endpoints and dedicated API keys for automation scripts.

  3. Is Planelo available on Android or Windows?
    No. Planelo is exclusive to Apple ecosystems (iOS, iPadOS, macOS), leveraging Catalyst for cross-platform consistency. Web/Windows versions are unconfirmed.

  4. What happens if I exceed the free tier’s project limit?
    The Starter tier allows 2 active projects. Pro unlocks unlimited projects via referral bonuses or subscription—retaining all encryption and API features.

  5. Can I migrate data from Notion or Apple Notes?
    Manual import via markdown/attachments is supported. Bulk import automation is under development for future releases.

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