Basic Usage

FlowDown provides an immersive chat interface, supports local models, and can sync data via iCloud. This guide combines the first-chat steps with everyday usage.

Start your first conversation

  1. Open FlowDown and click New Conversation in the sidebar; the composer appears at the bottom.
  2. Choose a model below the composer (local MLX, cloud templates, Apple Intelligence, or the free quota for new users).
  3. Above the composer, toggle Tools (calendar/location/memory/MCP) and Web Browsing as needed; enable Memory to write highlights to long-term memory.
  4. Type your message. Shift + Enter adds a new line. Drag files to attach text/Markdown, PDF, PNG/JPEG/WebP/HEIC, or audio (m4a/wav; others auto-transcoded).
  5. Press Enter (or tap send) to send. Stop a reply via the stop button or the conversation menu in the top right.

Conversation view

Manage conversations

  • The list on the left shows all conversations. Click to switch; on touch devices you can swipe, and right-click/long-press to open the quick menu.
  • The assistant auto-generates a title and icon after the first reply. Use the quick menu to Rename or Change Icon.
  • Use Copy to create a branch (Fork); use Archive to hide a conversation without deleting data.
  • To adjust tools, web browsing, or system prompts for a conversation, open Conversation Settings from the quick menu.

Conversation quick menu

UI & rendering

  • Replies support full Markdown (tables, code blocks, quotes). Switch to a classic list layout via Settings → Conversation UI if preferred.
  • In the message menu, Raw Data shows the full prompt, including system instructions and attachment context; you can also copy/export/archive here.

Cross-device sync

FlowDown stores data locally and can optionally sync through CloudKit.

  • Turn on Settings → Data Control → iCloud Sync on each device. The sidebar shows the latest sync status and pending changes.
  • After adding a new device or resolving conflicts, run Full Refresh from iCloud to keep data consistent.
  • You can export a backup anytime via Settings → Data Control → Export Workspace. Restoring merges conversations, models, and attachments.

Sync scope on iPad

Next steps