Kerlig logo

Kerlig

Paid

AI Writing Assistant for macOS

Inputs: text, file, urlOutputs: text, code
Type
Saas
Kerlig screenshot

About Kerlig

Kerlig is a macOS-native AI writing assistant designed to enhance productivity by integrating AI capabilities directly into any application on the Mac. It enables users to write emails, Slack messages, Jira tickets, and more without switching contexts. The app supports a wide range of AI models from providers including OpenAI, Anthropic, Google Gemini, Groq, Ollama, OpenRouter, xAI, Perplexity, Mistral, Amazon Bedrock, and Apple Foundation Models, allowing users to choose their preferred engine or run local models via Ollama and LM Studio. Kerlig also offers document interaction features, letting users ask questions, summarize, and analyze PDFs, Word documents, EPUB files, webpages, and images. Additional capabilities include real-time grammar and spelling correction, tone adjustment, translation, summarization, and custom presets for automating writing workflows. The app operates with a strong emphasis on privacy, storing data encrypted on the user's Mac and sending messages directly to chosen AI providers. Kerlig is aimed at professionals, students, and teams who want to streamline their written communication and document processing without leaving their existing workflow.

Key Features

AI-powered writing assistance with grammar, spelling, and tone suggestions
Document interaction: ask questions, summarize, and chat with PDFs, DOCX, EPUB, and webpages
Multi-model support: switch between 350+ AI models from major providers and local models
Custom actions and presets to automate writing tasks for different scenarios
Translation and summarization of text and documents
Deep research using reasoning models that leverage online data
Privacy: messages sent directly to AI providers, stored and encrypted locally on Mac
Team deployment via CLI for remote management

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Deep macOS integration with global hotkeys and no context switching
  • Supports a vast array of AI providers and local models, giving flexibility
  • Privacy-focused: data stays on-device and is encrypted
  • Document interaction goes beyond simple text to handle multiple file types including images
  • Custom actions allow tailoring AI behavior to specific workflows
  • Positive user ratings (4.9 average) indicate strong satisfaction among users
Cons
  • Limited to macOS; no Windows or web version available
  • Pricing is not publicly listed (contact sales), making cost evaluation difficult
  • Requires API keys from AI providers, which may incur separate costs
  • Dependence on internet connection for external AI models (though local models are an option)
  • Free tier or trial limitations are not specified in available information

Best For

Writing and proofreading professional emails, Slack messages, and Jira ticketsSummarizing lengthy documents, articles, or research papersChatting with PDFs and textbooks for study or work researchTranslating text between multiple languages quicklyCreating code snippets like TypeScript interfaces from natural language promptsBrainstorming content ideas or overcoming writer's block with AI assistance

Alternatives to Kerlig

FAQ

What operating systems does Kerlig support?
Based on available information, Kerlig is designed for macOS (macOS 12+), supporting both Apple Silicon and Intel Macs.
Does Kerlig require an internet connection?
It depends on the AI model used. Cloud-based models require internet, but the app also supports local models via Ollama and LM Studio, which can work offline after setup.
How does Kerlig handle privacy?
According to the website, user messages are sent directly to the selected AI provider, then stored and encrypted on the user's Mac. The app does not retain data on its servers.
Can I use my own AI provider API keys?
Yes, Kerlig allows users to connect with their preferred AI providers using API keys, giving flexibility to choose models from OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, Groq, and many others.
Is there a free version of Kerlig?
Pricing is listed as 'contact' on the website, suggesting a paid model. Users should verify if a free trial or limited free tier exists directly with Kerlig.
What file types can I interact with in Kerlig?
The app supports attachments including PDF, DOCX, EPUB, and images. It can analyze, summarize, and chat with these document types.