  This paper introduces an open-source software for distributed and
decentralized non-convex optimization named ALADIN-$\alpha$. ALADIN-$\alpha$ is
a MATLAB implementation of tailored variants of the Augmented Lagrangian
Alternating Direction Inexact Newton (ALADIN) algorithm. Its user interface is
convenient for rapid prototyping of non-convex distributed optimization
algorithms. An improved version of the recently proposed bi-level variant of
ALADIN is included enabling decentralized non-convex optimization with reduced
information exchange. A collection of examples from different applications
fields including chemical engineering, robotics, and power systems underpins
the potential of ALADIN-$\alpha$.
