AI chatbot for conversation, work, research, coding, and content creation.
5.9B visits/mo+5%#1 Chatbots & Assistants
About Boltbar
Boltbar is a lightweight, native chat bar for macOS that allows users to interact with AI models directly from any application. Pressing Option+Space opens the bar, where queries can be sent to GPT or Claude. The tool supports both quick chat and agent mode, where Claude Code or Codex CLI performs tasks in a selected project folder. Agent mode can be toggled with Command+J, and permissions can be adjusted to control how much the agent can act without confirmation. The bar remains hidden until summoned and supports keyboard navigation for efficiency. Messages and replies are stored locally on the Mac, and attachments like images or PDFs can be included for context. Boltbar integrates with the system Keychain for secure storage of API keys and avoids using Electron or requiring user accounts.
Key features
- Quick chat with GPT or Claude via Option+Space
- Agent mode for project task automation with Command+J
- Local storage of chats and attachments in ~/Library/Application Support/Boltbar
- Keyboard shortcuts for navigation and model switching
- Support for images, PDFs, and text file attachments
- Project folder selection and permission controls
- Theme customization with Paper, Mist, Graphite, and Midnight options
- Signed and notarized macOS app with in-app updates
Use cases
- Quick AI queries without leaving the current application
- Automating repetitive coding tasks in a project folder
- Reviewing or editing project files with agent assistance
Pros
- Native macOS application with no Electron framework
- Supports both quick chat and agent mode for task automation
- Local storage of chats and attachments on the Mac
- Keyboard-driven navigation for fast interaction
- Free to use with optional supporter license for ad-free experience
Cons
- Requires macOS 13 Ventura or later
- Agent mode depends on Claude Code or Codex CLI installation
- PDF attachments require an API key
- Web search functionality limited without OpenAI API key
Frequently asked questions about Boltbar
What is Boltbar and how does it work?
Boltbar is a lightweight, native chat bar for macOS that allows users to interact with AI models like GPT or Claude directly from any application. Pressing Option+Space opens the bar, where queries can be sent and replies are received without leaving the current app.
Who is Boltbar designed for?
Boltbar is designed for macOS users who want a quick, keyboard-driven way to interact with AI models while working in other applications. It suits developers, writers, and anyone seeking a streamlined, private chat interface.
How does Boltbar handle privacy and data storage?
Boltbar stores messages, replies, and attachments locally on the user's Mac in ~/Library/Application Support/Boltbar. API keys are securely stored in the system Keychain, and no user accounts or analytics are required.
Can Boltbar perform tasks automatically in a project folder?
Yes, Boltbar includes an agent mode where Claude Code or Codex CLI can perform tasks in a selected project folder. Users can adjust permissions to control how much the agent can act without confirmation.
What integrations or dependencies does Boltbar require?
Boltbar requires an OpenAI or Anthropic API key, or a Codex or Claude Code login. It supports attachments like images, PDFs, and text files, though PDFs need an API key for processing.
How do I get started with Boltbar?
Boltbar can be installed via Homebrew using 'brew install --cask juanluisrto/boltbar/boltbar' or by downloading the signed DMG/ZIP from the latest release. It requires macOS 13 Ventura or later and is free to use, with optional supporter licensing.
