AI is optional

AI starts Off. Terminal and the rest of MARC remain usable without enabling it. Open Settings → Terminal & AI to choose a mode.

Local AI with Ollama

Install and run Ollama on your Mac and install a model suitable for its available memory. In Terminal & AI, select Local, refresh installed models, and choose a model.

MARC uses Ollama on the connected Mac through SSH. The model choice is remembered separately for each Mac.

API mode

Add a named key in Settings → Keychain → API Keys. In Terminal & AI, select API, choose the saved key, and select a supported model. Review the configured endpoint.

Model loading and prompt transmission have separate consent prompts. Availability, quotas, and charges depend on your provider account.

What you send

API requests send your prompt, selected model, and command-generation instructions to the configured provider, along with the API key when configured. Terminal output and files are not automatically attached. Review the provider’s privacy and retention terms.

See the AI privacy details.

Review before running

Read generated commands and understand their effect before choosing Run. A suggestion may be incorrect or unsuitable for your Mac.

Which mode should you choose?

Choose Off if you do not need suggestions. Choose Local if you want to use an Ollama model on your Mac. Choose API if you prefer a supported external provider.

Local models use your Mac’s memory and processing power. Start with a model that fits the machine, especially if other apps are already using a lot of RAM. A larger model is not always a better fit.

If local models do not appear

Check that MARC is connected to the intended Mac, Ollama is running there, and at least one model is installed. Then refresh the installed-model list in Terminal & AI.

The model list belongs to the connected Mac. A model installed on one Mac will not automatically appear on another.

Loading the provider’s model list contacts that provider. Sending an AI prompt is another request. MARC asks about these separately so you can decide what to allow.

A provider may receive your API key and IP address when contacted. Prompt requests also include the text you submit. Avoid including secrets in a prompt, and check the provider’s own terms.

API usage is billed by the provider when applicable. It is separate from MARC’s core features.

Treat suggestions as a starting point

Explain what you want to do and review the result. If a command is unfamiliar, ask for an explanation before running it.

An AI response can use the wrong path, assume a tool is installed, or suggest an operation that changes more than you intended. You remain in control of whether the command runs.