Getting Started with Clarissa for Apple

Clarissa is available as a native iOS and macOS application, built with SwiftUI and featuring Apple's Liquid Glass design language. This guide will help you get up and running.

Requirements

  • iOS 26+ on iPhone or iPad
  • macOS 26+ (Tahoe) on Mac
  • Apple Silicon device with Apple Intelligence enabled (for on-device AI)
  • Xcode 26 beta (for building from source)

Installation Options

TestFlight (Recommended)

Join the TestFlight beta to get early access to Clarissa. This is the easiest way to install and receive automatic updates.

  1. Install TestFlight from the App Store
  2. Open the Clarissa TestFlight invite link
  3. Tap "Accept" to join the beta
  4. Install Clarissa from TestFlight

Build from Source

For developers who want to build and run locally:

git clone https://github.com/cameronrye/clarissa.git
cd clarissa/apple/Clarissa
open Package.swift

This opens the project in Xcode. Select your target device and click Run (⌘R).

Initial Setup

When you first launch Clarissa, you'll be guided through a quick onboarding process:

  1. Apple Intelligence — Enable on-device AI if your device supports it
  2. OpenRouter API Key — Optionally add your API key for cloud model access
  3. Permissions — Grant microphone access for voice input (optional)

Choosing Your AI Provider

Apple Intelligence (On-Device)

The default and recommended option. Your conversations are processed entirely on your device using Apple Foundation Models. This requires:

  • Apple Silicon (M1 or later on Mac, A17 Pro or later on iPhone/iPad)
  • Apple Intelligence enabled in System Settings
  • iOS 26+ or macOS 26+

Note: On-device AI supports up to 5 tools per session. For more complex workflows, consider using cloud providers.

OpenRouter (Cloud)

For access to 100+ models including Claude, GPT-4, and more. Requires an API key from OpenRouter.

To configure:

  1. Open Settings (gear icon or ⌘,)
  2. Enter your OpenRouter API key
  3. Select your preferred model

Your First Conversation

Once setup is complete:

  1. Tap the text field at the bottom of the screen
  2. Type your message or tap the microphone for voice input
  3. Press Send or Return to submit

Clarissa will respond with streaming text. If tools are required (like fetching a URL or running a calculation), you'll see the tool execution in real-time.

Next Steps

  • Explore Features to learn about voice input, Siri Shortcuts, and more
  • Check the FAQ for troubleshooting and tips