Openwork is a local computer-use AI agent designed for macOS (specifically Apple Silicon) that automates repetitive knowledge work by interacting directly with the user's local file system and applications. It is fundamentally an open-source tool, licensed under MIT, that empowers users to leverage their own AI models without relying on a subscription service from the developer.

The core methodology of Openwork revolves around an on-device, privacy-preserving AI orchestration engine. Unlike cloud-based AI services, Openwork operates entirely locally, ensuring that user files and sensitive data never leave the machine unless explicitly permitted by the user. This local execution model is foundational to its privacy claims, wherein all data processing, file interaction, and automation tasks are performed within the user's controlled environment.

Technically, Openwork functions by integrating with external large language models (LLMs) and other AI capabilities via API keys provided directly by the user (e.g., OpenAI, Anthropic). The application itself does not host or manage AI models; rather, it acts as an intelligent intermediary. It translates user prompts and intentions into actionable commands, sends these to the user's designated AI model, processes the AI model's responses, and then executes corresponding operations on the local computer. This execution layer includes direct file system interactions (reading, writing, renaming, moving files), inter-application communication (e.g., creating calendar entries, connecting with Notion, Google Drive, Dropbox via local APIs), and document generation or manipulation.

A crucial aspect of its operational methodology is the "human-in-the-loop" control. Every action proposed by the AI agent, derived from its processing of user requests and AI model outputs, must be explicitly reviewed and approved by the user before execution. This transparent approval mechanism, coupled with accessible logs and the ability to stop operations at any time, provides users with comprehensive control over the AI's activities and mitigates risks associated with autonomous agents.

Key capabilities facilitated by this methodology include:

• File Management: Automatically sorting, renaming, and moving files based on their content or user-defined rules. This involves scanning file contents, extracting relevant information, and applying logic for organization.
• Document Creation and Manipulation: Generating, summarizing, or rewriting documents based on prompts, potentially integrating data from various local files or web sources.
• Custom Automations and Skill Learning: Users can define and save repeatable workflows as "skills," allowing the agent to learn and re-execute complex sequences of actions, such as preparing project folders with predefined structures and files.
• Tool Connections: Interacting with other applications and services (e.g., Notion, Google Drive, Dropbox) through their local APIs, extending its automation reach beyond the file system.

The setup process is streamlined, requiring users to install the application, provide their AI API key, and grant specific folder access permissions, emphasizing the user's control over data visibility. By leveraging user-supplied AI and open-source code, Openwork positions itself as a customizable and transparent tool for personal knowledge automation, rather than a managed service.