Introduction
LMCP lets your AI assistant use the real apps and files on your Mac or Windows PC through natural conversation — locally and under your control.
What is LMCP?
Preview and confirmation behavior depends on the tool, platform and AI client. Check the tool requirements and review the intended action before authorizing a real call.
How does it work? LMCP uses an open standard called MCP (Model Context Protocol) to communicate with AI tools, so it works with any AI app that supports MCP — no vendor lock-in. Unlike cloud connectors, LMCP talks directly to local app APIs, automation surfaces and on-device data stores on macOS and Windows. Available tools follow the apps installed on each computer.
System requirements
| Requirement | Minimum |
|---|---|
| Operating system | macOS 13.0+ or Windows 10+ (64-bit) |
| Processor | Apple Silicon or Intel on Mac; x64 on Windows |
| Storage | ~60 MB available space |
| Network | Internet for download & updates (tools run offline; the optional Cloud Relay needs a connection) |
Supported AI clients
LMCP works with any MCP-compatible client. Two paths:
- Desktop apps (auto-configured on install): the desktop AI apps LMCP sets up — which ones, and how.
- Web AIs (via the opt-in encrypted Cloud Relay): ChatGPT, Claude.ai, Grok, Perplexity — from any device, with your data always coming from your Mac.
- Any other MCP client (manual): add a stdio server with the command
npx -y local-mcp@latest(Raycast, Warp, LM Studio…).
Quick start
- Download LMCP for Mac or Windows and run the installer — it lands in your menu bar or Windows system tray and configures supported desktop AI clients.
- Grant only the permissions you want to use (see Permissions) — each is requested when first needed.
- Restart your AI client once and ask: “Summarize my unread emails.”
Common questions
Does LMCP require an internet connection? Only for download and updates. The tools run locally; your AI client may need internet for the model itself.
LMCP executes local tools on your device. Cloud AI providers and connected services can receive requested data; their terms apply.
Can I limit what LMCP can access? Yes. Grant only the operating-system and app permissions you want, and revoke them at any time.
What does it cost? LMCP is free.