FAQ
Quick answers to common questions. For step-by-step help with a specific problem, see Troubleshooting.
Is my data uploaded anywhere?
Section titled “Is my data uploaded anywhere?”No. Your files stay where they are, either on your Mac or in your own cloud bucket. Curator reads them in place. All AI runs locally through Ollama, so your documents and your questions never leave your control. The only network call Curator makes for AI is to your own Ollama, whether that is on this Mac or another machine on your network.
Do I need an internet connection?
Section titled “Do I need an internet connection?”You need one to download the app and to pull AI models the first time. After that, day-to-day use does not need the internet. If you use Ollama on another machine, Curator needs to reach it over your network.
Does it cost anything to use the AI?
Section titled “Does it cost anything to use the AI?”No. There is no per-use cost and no API key to buy. Models run locally through Ollama and are free to download.
What is Ollama, and do I have to install it myself?
Section titled “What is Ollama, and do I have to install it myself?”Ollama is a free, open-source app that runs AI models directly on your Mac. Curator depends on it for every AI feature. You do not have to install it by hand. Curator can install it for you in one click during setup.
Which models should I use?
Section titled “Which models should I use?”The ones Curator recommends. During setup, Curator detects your Mac’s RAM and suggests models sized to fit, each with a short description.
Does Curator move or change my files?
Section titled “Does Curator move or change my files?”No. Curator reads your files in place. It never moves, copies, renames, or alters them unless you explicitly ask it to.
Can I use more than one folder or bucket?
Section titled “Can I use more than one folder or bucket?”Yes. You can add several Storage Sources, mixing local folders and cloud buckets. The All Sources view searches and chats across every source at once.
Is there an account or subscription?
Section titled “Is there an account or subscription?”No. There is no account, no email, and no password. Profiles are local and name-only, stored on your Mac.
Is Curator available on Windows or Linux?
Section titled “Is Curator available on Windows or Linux?”Curator is macOS only, and it needs macOS 12 (Monterey) or later.
[!NOTE] PLACEHOLDER: Confirm whether Windows or Linux versions are planned, and state it here if so.
How do updates work?
Section titled “How do updates work?”Curator has a built-in auto-updater. When a new version is available, a prompt appears in the app. You can also check for updates yourself from Settings.
How do I completely remove a source or my data?
Section titled “How do I completely remove a source or my data?”You can delete a Storage Source along with the data Curator stored for it from Settings. For what Curator stores and how to remove it fully, see the privacy reference.