Local
Show HN: Zero () friction local AI for Mac
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What is Local?
Local is a private AI desktop application that runs entirely on your Mac with no cloud connectivity, zero per-token costs, and on-device processing. It provides chat, coding assistance, meeting transcription, and analytics capabilities using optimized open-source models, with optional cloud integration available when needed.
Local pricing
Pricing model: Freemium
Free for local use; optional cloud integration available by bringing your own API keys from OpenAI, Anthropic, or OpenRouter
Local pros
- Completely private—nothing leaves your device; works offline after initial download
- Zero cost per token for local inference; free to use with built-in open models
- Automatic hardware detection and optimization; compiles BaseRT inference engine for your specific Apple silicon
- Multiple integrated capabilities: Chat, Coding, Meetings, Memory, and Analytics in one workspace
- No account or telemetry required; full control over stored memories and data
- Office Mode allows sharing one powerful machine's inference across multiple laptops
- Optional cloud integration for frontier models (OpenAI, Anthropic, OpenRouter) with your own keys
Local cons
- macOS only—Windows and Linux support coming soon; requires Apple silicon (no Intel Mac support)
- Performance heavily dependent on available memory; full capabilities require 24–128 GB for best experience
- Local inference limited to open-source models; frontier proprietary models require cloud connection and API keys
- Some advanced agentic coding features limited to higher-end Mac configurations
Frequently asked questions about Local
Does it work without internet?
Yes. You need a connection to download the app and a model. After that, everything runs offline.
Which Macs are supported?
Any Mac with Apple silicon. Local picks a model that fits your memory.
Is any of my data collected?
No. Everything lives in a database on your Mac. No account, no telemetry.