Cai
MacOS utility — select text anywhere, press ⌥C, run AI prompts, scripts, or create tickets without app switching.
| What is it | MacOS utility — select text anywhere, press ⌥C, run AI prompts, scripts, or create tickets without app switching. |
|---|---|
| Pricing | Unknown |
| Platform | Desktop Application |
| Best for | creating GitHub issues from error messages, translating selected text in any application |
| Domain registered | 2026 |
Data updated Aug. 1, 2026
What does Cai do?
Cai is a free, open-source macOS application that functions as an AI action layer for your workflow. You select text anywhere on your system—whether it's an error message in Terminal, a Slack conversation, or a screenshot—then press Option+C (⌥C) to access a menu of actions. These actions include running AI prompts, executing shell scripts, performing OCR on images, creating GitHub issues, or generating Linear tickets. The tool works inline without requiring you to switch applications.
What sets Cai apart is its local-first approach. It ships with a built-in Mistral 3B model running via MLX, which means all processing happens on your device by default with no API keys or accounts required. For those who prefer cloud options, it also supports connections to LM Studio, Ollama, OpenRouter, and Apple Intelligence (on macOS 26+). The application is keyboard-focused and designed to minimize context switching while maintaining privacy.
Cai serves developers and technical professionals who frequently work across multiple applications and need quick text processing capabilities. It's particularly useful for turning terminal errors into GitHub issues, translating code comments, summarizing meeting notes, or running custom scripts on selected content—all without leaving your current workflow. The tool is MIT licensed and completely free to use.
Key features
What makes it stand outWho is Cai for?
Who benefits most from this toolTrust & presence
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