VARIANT-1
0.1.1 previewDownload

DOCUMENTATION / FIELD GUIDE

Meet your
workspace.

VARIANT-1 is a desktop app where an AI model can do the work, not just describe it. It runs Python, reads and writes files, uses a browser, and on Windows operates your other apps, all from one chat.

Free preview for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Download →
V—1 / FIELD GUIDE

START HERE / THREE STEPS

  1. 01Get set up.Download the app for your computer, open it, and connect a model.
  2. 02Bring your model.Run one on your machine, add an API key, or sign in with an account you already have.
  3. 03Try a simple task.Four numbers, one total, and a follow-up you can check by hand.

HOW A TASK FLOWS

Say what you want.
Watch it take shape.

Point to the materials and ask. The model writes and runs small pieces of Python, reaches for tools when it needs them, and shows you each step. Files, a browser, a terminal, and a Review pane sit beside the chat, so you can watch the work take shape.

You don’t need to know Python. The model writes the code; you judge the result. Every chat keeps its own live Python session, so a cleaned table or a handy helper is still there for your next message.

FIG. 1 / ONE TASK, GOING ROUND

You ask; the model works in Python and uses tools; the changes come back to you to review, and the next request starts from there.

Every guide

EIGHT GUIDES / UPDATED 5 OCTOBER 2026

START HERE

01Getting startedDownload, install, open, and connect a model.2 min read02Models & connectionsLocal models, API keys, custom endpoints, account sign-in, and backups.2 min read03Your first taskTry a simple calculation, check the answer, and continue with the same data.2 min read

USING THE WORKSPACE

04State & continuityLive Python sessions, checkpoints, restarts, chat history, and session context.2 min read05Tools & mutationPython helpers, the toolbox, and tools that adapt within a chat.2 min read06Goals & automationsLong-running goals, helper agents, schedules, event triggers, and messaging.2 min read07Data & user controlWhat runs where, permissions, browsers, steering, stopping, and reviewing changes.2 min read

REFERENCE

08TroubleshootingInstall warnings, connection problems, limits, missing data, stuck tasks, and issue reports.2 min read

BEYOND ONE CHAT

Goals and automations.

A Goal keeps a bigger objective on track with its own steps and progress notes, and can hand parts of it to helper agents. Automations run an instruction on a schedule, or when something happens on your computer.

ABOUT THE PREVIEW

Free, open, and early.

VARIANT-1 is free and open source under the MIT License, for Windows, macOS on Apple silicon, and Linux. There’s no VARIANT account: you bring the model. Expect rough edges; each release lists what was tested.

YOU STAY IN CHARGE

Not a sandbox.

Steer mid-task, queue your next message, or stop it. VARIANT-1 acts with the same permissions you have, so start with copies of your files. Data & control explains what stays on your computer.

Stuck on something?

Install warnings, connection problems, and tasks that stall are covered in Troubleshooting. Found a bug? Report it on GitHub.