# Retain

> Retain is a native macOS app that unifies AI conversations from multiple tools into a searchable local knowledge base with learning extraction.

- **Category:** AI Assistant
- **Licence:** MIT
- **Latest version:** v0.1.10-beta
- **Open source:** oss
- **Languages:** Swift
- **Platforms:** Linux, macOS, Build from Source
- **Tags:** SQLite, Ai Assistant, Knowledge Base, Local First, Chatgpt, Claude, macOS, Fts5, Conversation Aggregator, Learning Extraction

## Description

Retain is a native macOS desktop application that solves the problem of scattered AI conversation context across multiple tools. It automatically syncs conversations from CLI tools via file watching and from web interfaces via browser cookie import, storing everything in a local SQLite database with full-text search. The app extracts learnings — corrections and preferences — from conversations and exports them so Claude remembers user preferences across sessions. It runs entirely locally with no telemetry, offers a menu bar interface, and delivers automatic updates via Sparkle. Optional AI features can connect to Google's Gemini API for enhanced learning extraction, and the app requires Full Disk Access to read browser cookies for web sync. Currently in beta with stable core sync and search features, while learning extraction and automations are still under active development.

## Links

- [Homepage](https://github.com/bayramannakov/retain)
- [GitHub Repository](https://github.com/BayramAnnakov/retain)
- [Releases](https://github.com/BayramAnnakov/retain/releases)
- [Issues](https://github.com/BayramAnnakov/retain/issues)

---
Source: https://selfhost.directory/project/retain