How Riffn works
How Riffn works: the iOS app links your iPhone to a coding agent on your own computer, over Tailscale.
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What is How Riffn works?
How Riffn works: Riffn is an iOS app that connects your iPhone to a coding agent running on your personal computer via Tailscale, enabling hands-free voice interaction with the agent while on the go. Users can start a background session and interact with Claude Code or other local models through spoken commands while the phone is locked.
How Riffn works pricing
Pricing model: Freemium
How Riffn works pros
- Voice-controlled access to repo agents with background session support and lock-screen interaction
- Privacy-focused architecture—inference stays on your machine via your own Tailscale network, no cloud exposure
- Supports switching between multiple agents and models by voice command without touching the phone
- Open-source bridge (~100 KB, Apache-2.0) with zero runtime dependencies; works with CarPlay and earbuds
How Riffn works cons
- Requires Claude Code, Node 18+, and Tailscale already installed and configured on your computer
- Complex multi-step setup involving pairing, QR codes, and network configuration
- iOS-only; does not include Claude Code, model subscriptions, or API credits—you must provide your own provider account
Frequently asked questions about How Riffn works
What are the three steps to set up Riffn?
1) Run `npx @riffn/[email protected] init` in your repo directory; 2) Pair over Tailscale by scanning the QR code in app settings; 3) Start a session and the agent stays active in the background with the phone locked.
Can I use models other than Claude?
Yes, you can use OpenAI, GLM, or other models, but only through the Claude Code harness routed to an Anthropic-compatible gateway like LiteLLM, Z.ai, or OpenRouter. Direct Codex bridging is disabled for security reasons.
Does my data go through Riffn's servers?
No. Inference traffic does not pass through Riffn's Worker. The connection uses your Tailscale network, and communication flows directly between your iPhone, the bridge on your machine, and your local model or provider account.
What does 'auto-send' and 'trigger phrase' mean?
Auto-send (default) transmits your turn after silence. Trigger phrase mode waits for you to say 'over' before sending, letting you think out loud without interruption.