+ 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. A built-in MLX model downloads on first launch. You can switch to Apple Intelligence (macOS 26+) or connect your own provider in Preferences at any time (see LLM Setup)

Requirements

  • macOS 13.0 (Ventura) or later
  • Accessibility permission (for the global hotkey ⌥C)
  • LLM provider: Cai includes a built-in model. You can also use Apple Intelligence (macOS 26+) or any local/cloud provider

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. That’s what lets Cai work in every app, from Safari to Slack to Terminal.

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.

Building from Source

Want to build Cai yourself or contribute? See Build from Source in the repository README.