+ Installation — Cai Docs

Installation

Download

  1. Download the .dmg from the latest release
  2. Open the DMG and drag Cai.app to your Applications folder
  3. Open the app and grant Accessibility permission (see First Launch Setup below)
  4. Cai’s built-in model downloads automatically — or configure your own LLM server in Preferences

Requirements

  • macOS 13.0 (Ventura) or later
  • Accessibility permission (for the global hotkey ⌥C)
  • Local LLM server (optional — Cai includes a built-in model, but you can connect your own local or cloud server)

First Launch Setup

On first launch, Cai will ask for Accessibility permission. This is required so Cai can use the global hotkey (⌥C) and simulate ⌘C to copy your selection — it’s what allows Cai to work seamlessly across all apps.

Step 1 — Click Open System Settings when prompted.

Step 2 — Toggle Cai on in the Accessibility list.

You’re all set! Press ⌥C with any text selected to start using Cai.

Build from Source

git clone https://github.com/clipboard-ai/cai.git
cd cai/Cai
open Cai.xcodeproj

In Xcode:

  1. Select the Cai scheme and My Mac as destination
  2. Product → Run (⌘R)

Note: The app requires Accessibility permission and runs without App Sandbox (required for global hotkey and CGEvent posting).