How PebbleFlow Works Across Platforms

PebbleFlow runs on your browser, desktop, and phone (iOS and Android)—each platform is standalone, but they sync via encrypted cloud backup. Pick what works for you, or use them together.

Extension (Free Tier)

Chrome or Safari browser extension

The easiest way to get started. Install the extension, open it, and chat.

  • AI conversations right in your browser
  • Web search, link reading, page analysis
  • Screenshot and content capture
  • Skills for automation
  • Slate editor for code and documents
  • Everything runs locally—no server needed

Get started: Go to the Chrome Web Store, search for PebbleFlow, and click Add. On Safari (macOS), the Safari extension is built into the macOS desktop app — download the app below to use PebbleFlow in Safari.

Browser Bridge (Pro Tier)

Local server that unlocks extra capabilities

If you want more power without leaving your browser, run the Browser Bridge on your Mac or PC.

One command in your terminal:

npx pebbleflow-browser-bridge

Runs on localhost:3847. The extension connects via WebSocket—this is a capability bridge, NOT state sync. Only your extension talks to it.

Unlocks:

  • Local MCP tools (file system, custom tools)
  • File access and management
  • Local voice (Whisper for transcription, Kokoro for TTS)
  • Image generation (faster, no API calls)
  • Private, on-device processing

Perfect for: Developers, automation fans, privacy-first users.

Desktop App (Platform Tier)

All-in-one: embeds the bridge + adds native features

Install once and get everything the Browser Bridge offers, plus system integration.

macOS

  • Native Swift app in your dock
  • Calendar and Reminders integration via EventKit
  • Built-in Safari extension (no separate install)
  • System tray menu for quick access
  • Sidepanel overlay (Cmd+Shift+P to open)
  • Global hotkeys and system events

Windows & Linux

  • Tauri native shell with system tray
  • Embedded Node.js sidecar (Bridge server)
  • Global hotkeys (Ctrl+Shift+P)
  • Sidepanel overlay window
  • No external dependencies—everything bundled

Get: Download from our website or App Store.

iOS & Android Apps (Free Tier with Pro features)

Native apps optimized for mobile. Full chat and tools. Everything syncs via encrypted cloud backup.

  • Chat, search, image generation, tools
  • Conversations sync across devices
  • Native calendar and reminder integration (EventKit on iOS, CalendarContract on Android)
  • Passcode lock (Pro tier)
  • Optimized for touch and small screens

Get started: Download from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android), sign in to enable private sync.

The Architecture

All platforms are independent, each with its own storage. Private sync is the only sync path between devices.

Extension ←WebSocket (capability bridge)→ Browser Bridge / Desktop
   ↓                                            ↓
Local browser storage                    Local files + system
   ↓                                            ↓
   └─────────────────→ Private Sync ←──────────┘
                    (Google Drive, encrypted)
   ↑
iOS/Android App (local + synced)
  • Extension is standalone—works alone, no bridge or desktop needed
  • Bridge expands what the extension can do (local tools, voice, files)
  • Desktop bundles everything + native system features
  • iOS and Android connect to private sync for cross-device access
  • Each device is the source of truth for its own data

Mix and Match

Pick the combo that fits your workflow.

What You Want Setup Tier
AI chat in the browser Extension Free
Chat + local tools (file access, voice, image gen) Extension + Browser Bridge Pro
Everything above + calendar, system tray, hotkeys Desktop App Platform
Access on your phone, synced across devices iOS/Android App + any above Free (Pro for private sync)
AI everywhere with full sync All of the above Platform

Each platform works standalone. You don't need all of them. Start with the extension, add the bridge when you need local tools, grab the desktop app if you want system integration.

What's Private Sync?

One toggle in Settings > Private Sync. Turn it on, sign in with Google, and your conversations, settings, and skills sync everywhere—encrypted before they leave your device.

Read more: Private Sync

Next Steps

This guide is maintained by the PebbleFlow team using Slate, our built-in editor.