Package Python App

package-python-app

Package a Python desktop application for distribution using PyInstaller, Nuitka, or cx_Freeze. Handles dependency detection, data files, hidden imports, single-file vs directory builds, and platform-specific signing.

When to Use It

• You have a working Python app and need to distribute it as a standalone executable
• You are troubleshooting PyInstaller/Nuitka/cx_Freeze build failures
• You need to bundle data files, images, or databases with your application
• You want to set up code signing for your packaged application
• You are choosing between packaging tools and need trade-off guidance

How to Launch It

In GitHub Copilot Chat -- select from the prompt picker:

/package-python-app

Then provide the entry point when prompted.

In Claude Code:

@python-specialist package my_app/__main__.py with PyInstaller

What to Expect

Step 1: Requirements Gathering

The agent asks about your preferred packaging tool, build mode, target platform, GUI framework, data files, icon, and signing requirements.

Step 2: Dependency Analysis

Scans imports to identify third-party packages, hidden imports (common with wxPython, PIL, SQLAlchemy), data files referenced in code, and runtime hooks needed.

Step 3: Build Configuration

Generates the appropriate configuration:

• PyInstaller: A .spec file with Analysis paths, hidden imports, datas, excludes, and platform-specific settings
• Nuitka: A build script with --standalone/--onefile, plugins, data includes, and icon settings
• cx_Freeze: A setup.py with include/exclude lists, data files, and installer options

Step 4: Build and Test

Runs the build, reports output size, lists warnings, and suggests verification steps.

Step 5: Distribution Guidance

Covers installer creation (NSIS, Inno Setup, DMG, AppImage), auto-update setup, antivirus false positive handling, and code signing.

Related Prompts

• scaffold-wxpython-app -- Start a new app to package
• audit-desktop-a11y -- Audit the app before shipping

Related Agents

• python-specialist -- The specialist agent that powers this prompt
• developer-hub -- Routes to the right specialist for any developer task
• wxpython-specialist -- wxPython-specific packaging considerations