Atua
Atua is a tool designed to simplify the use of ChatGPT by allowing access through a single shortcut key on any Mac app. Atua eliminates the need for context swi...
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What is Atua?
Atua is an AI-powered desktop assistant for macOS that lets users access AI models directly from any application without switching windows. By selecting text and pressing a shortcut (⌥ + Space), users get AI-powered help instantly. The tool works with selected text, screen captures, clipboard, voice input, and connects to external tools via MCP servers, making it a context-aware prompt system rather than just a chatbot.
Key features include custom commands with hotkeys for any task, support for 20+ AI providers (OpenAI, Anthropic, Groq, Mistral, DeepSeek, xAI, Perplexity, and more), built-in system tools for Calendar, Reminders, Notes, Files, Shell, and HTTP, MCP server support for GitHub, Postgres, Slack, and filesystem access, voice input with local Voice Paste, and commands that can write back to apps and chain multiple actions together. The app requires macOS 15 Sequoia or later and uses your own API keys.
Atua is designed for creators, developers, and anyone who ships work on Mac who wants to minimize context-switching. It's loved by people who build products and need fast AI access while working in Mail, Notes, Slack, browsers, or code editors. The tool emphasizes privacy with no accounts, no analytics, and all data staying locally on your Mac.
Atua pricing
Pricing model: Paid
One-time purchase: Lifetime license at $29. No subscriptions. This includes all AI providers, unlimited custom commands, MCP server support, system tools, voice paste using local models, lifetime license, and free updates forever. 7-day money-back guarantee included.
Atua pros
- One-time purchase with lifetime access
- No subscription model
- Supports 20+ AI providers including OpenAI, Anthropic, Groq
- Use your own API key - no provider lock-in
- Custom commands with customizable hotkeys
- Works in any macOS application
- Context-aware prompts with selected text
- Screen capture and OCR support
- Voice input with local Voice Paste
- Built-in system tools for Calendar, Reminders, Notes, Files
- MCP server support for GitHub, Postgres, Slack
- Commands can chain multiple actions together
- Private by design - no accounts or analytics
- All data stays locally on your Mac
- 7-day money-back guarantee
- Free updates forever
- Runs voice processing locally on Mac
- Unlimited custom commands
- Supports Ollama and LM Studio for local prompts
- Works with any OpenAI-compatible provider
Atua cons
- Requires macOS 15 Sequoia or later only
- No Windows or Linux version available
- Requires your own API key from AI providers
- Needs Accessibility permission to function
- Needs Screen Recording permission for OCR
- Needs Microphone permission for voice features
- Requires Automation permission for system tools
- No free tier - must purchase license
Frequently asked questions about Atua
What is Atua?
Atua is an AI assistant for Mac that lets you use AI from the app you're already in. Select text, capture context, or speak, then get help without bouncing between windows. It works with ⌥ Space from anywhere on your Mac.
How do I start using Atua?
Download Atua from the website, drag Atua.app into your Applications folder, and open it. Activate your license key, then connect an AI provider like OpenAI, Anthropic, or Groq by adding your API key in Settings → Models tab.
What AI providers does Atua support?
Atua supports OpenAI, Anthropic, Groq, Mistral, DeepSeek, xAI, Perplexity, Together AI, Fireworks, Cerebras, DeepInfra, Hugging Face, Cohere, OpenRouter, LLM Gateway, Ollama, LM Studio, and any OpenAI-compatible provider.
Do I need to pay for AI separately?
Yes, you bring your own API key from any supported service. Atua doesn't charge for AI usage - you pay the AI provider directly for your API calls.
What permissions does Atua need?
Accessibility for reading selected text from other apps, Screen Recording for OCR and screen-based capture, Microphone for Speech to Text and Voice Paste, and Automation for interacting with Calendar, Reminders, Notes, Finder, and Shortcuts.
Can I use Atua with local models?
Yes, you can use Ollama or LM Studio to keep your prompts local on your Mac instead of sending them to cloud AI providers.
What is MCP server support?
MCP servers let you connect external tools like GitHub, databases, or APIs and use them inside any command. Supported MCP servers include GitHub, Postgres, Slack, and Filesystem.
Does Atua store my data online?
No, Atua is private by design. Your data (license key, API key, chat conversations) stays on your device. No external server or third party has access. Atua doesn't monitor activity or share analytics.
What if I'm not satisfied with Atua?
Atua offers a 7-day money-back guarantee for unsatisfied customers. You can request a refund within 7 days of purchase.
Can I create custom commands with hotkeys?
Yes, you can build prompts for any task with a custom hotkey, model selection, and output mode. Examples include /polish with ⌥P, /summarize with ⌥S, and /translate with ⌥T. Commands can also trigger tools and chain multiple actions.