Getting started with Assistela
To send your first message, you only need the Mac app and one working AI account. Services and permissions can be added later.
What is actually required
Assistela runs on your Mac. To answer in chat, it needs at least one connected AI account. This can be Assistela Managed, a ChatGPT subscription, or your own LLM provider with an API key.
Install the app
Download Assistela, move it to Applications, and open it.
Connect an AI account
Add an account under Settings → AI Accounts and make it the default.
Send a test
Return to Chat and type something like “Hello, are you working?”
Add only what you want
Email, calendar, notes, iPhone access, and Mac control are optional.
Assistela does not need any macOS permission for ordinary chat. Grant a permission only when you want to use the corresponding service or let Assistela work with apps on your Mac.
Recommended order
Get chat working first
Choose one AI connection method and verify it with a test message. There is no benefit in configuring other services before the AI account works.
Enable personal sources
For everyday use, we recommend starting with macOS Mail and Calendar. Select only the mailboxes and calendars Assistela may use.
Grant matching access
Under Settings → Permissions, grant only Mail Automation, Calendar, or another permission required by the service you enabled.
Optionally connect your iPhone
The mobile app provides remote access to Assistela on your Mac. Pair it with the QR code under Settings → Phone.
How to know the minimum setup is complete
- At least one active account under
Settings → AI Accountsis marked as the default. - The account check reports that the connection works.
- Assistela answers a new message in Chat.
If all three are true, the basic installation works. The remaining pages in this wiki only add more capabilities.