What it does
NextChat is a chat app that works with many AI models. It comes as a web app, a small desktop app for Windows, Mac and Linux, and an iOS app. Its makers say chat data is stored locally in your browser.
It supports saved prompt templates, long conversations, and self-hosted models through tools like LocalAI. There is also a hosted version and an enterprise edition.
Who it's for
Anyone who wants one app for chatting with different AI models.
Can I use it without coding?
Yes. There are ready-made desktop and mobile apps and a web version. You may need an API key from an AI provider. New to this? Start here.
Can I run it?
- Cost
- Free, but needs an AI accountThe software is free, but it uses an online AI service (like OpenAI or Anthropic), which usually charges for use.
- Runs on
- Mac, Windows, Linux, Web browser, Phone, Cloud
- Computer
- An ordinary computer is fine
- Privacy
- Your choice: run it on your device or use an online service
- API key
- Needed. An API key is a password-like code from an online AI service. What's that?
Try it
- Get an API key from an AI provider such as OpenAI.
- Download the desktop app for Windows, Mac or Linux from the releases page, or install the iOS app.
- Or deploy your own web copy on Vercel with one click, adding your API key during setup.
Using Claude Code, Cursor or another AI coding assistant? Paste the prompt and it will walk you through the setup.New to this?
Before you install
- Only download from the official GitHub page or the official download page above. Copies with similar names exist for many popular projects.
- License (MIT): Very permissive: free to use, change and share, including for business.
- Keep your API key private. Never paste it into websites or share it, and set a spending limit with the AI service.
- More on staying safe