FAQ

Short answers to the questions that come up most often.

Basics

What is Fluent best at?

Fluent is best for in-place AI work on Mac: rewriting selected text, drafting replies, comparing tabs, summarizing files, and running repeated workflows through Actions: with Context, Memory, and MCP.

Do I need an API key to use Fluent?

Only for cloud providers. Local models and Apple Intelligence do not need a provider API key.

Can Fluent work offline?

Yes, if you use local models or Apple Intelligence. Cloud providers, web search, and many external integrations still need network access. However, please note: Fluent uses online license key verification from time to time. Therefore, Internet is required at least once a week to validate your key.

How do I migrate my license key to another Mac?

License Manager will be available soon. Currently you can write us at [email protected].

Models

Can I use more than one provider?

Yes. You can setup and use as many providers as you want. It's convenient to add most used models to Favorites.

What is the difference between Local (MLX) and a custom provider such as Ollama or LM Studio?

Local (MLX) is Fluent's native local model path specifically for Apple Silicon Macs. It comes handy when you don't want any external software to run your models. Ollama, LM Studio, Open WebUI, and similar tools can be added as custom OpenAI-compatible providers.

How do I setup Ollama or LM Studio?

Create a Custom Provider in Fluent settings. Refer to the official documentation of these providers for API URL. You generally don't need an API key for these.

Can you recommend the best models?

Sure. It's always the latest models out there, because they are trained better and designed with all the past flaws in mind. There is also no silver bullet sometimes, as one model can be excellent at writing, while bad in agentic workflows.

Actions And Workflow

What is the difference between Actions, Context, Memory, and Integrations?

Actions are reusable prompts or workflows. Context the application or browser context that Fluent can use to amplify your AI request with relevant data. Memory is long-term reusable knowledge you keep locally. Integrations are tools Fluent can use through MCP.

When should I use Variables instead of Memory?

Use Variables for short reusable values such as a language, a company name, or a repeated phrase. Use Memory for longer material that should be searched semantically, such as writing examples, product docs, or project notes.

Permissions And Privacy

Do I need Accessibility permission?

Yes. Accessibility is the only core permission. It enables global shortcuts, selected text capture, and app context.

Does Fluent collect my data?

No. Fluent does not collect personal data or telemetry.

Where are API keys stored?

In the macOS Keychain.

Can I keep Fluent away from certain apps?

Yes. Use Blacklist to disable Fluent in specific apps.

MCP And Memory

Do I need Integrations (MCP) to use Fluent?

No. Fluent is already useful for writing, rewriting, and context-aware tasks without MCP. MCP adds tools such as search, files, app integrations, and automation.

Does Memory require MCP?

Built-in Memory integration needs to be enabled in order for Fluent to work with your Memory.

Can I schedule things in Fluent?

Yes. Actions can run on a schedule and notify you when they finish.