Getting Started with CAI Mobile UI
⚡ CAI-Pro Exclusive
Join the TestFlight Beta to get started with CAI Mobile UI.
This guide will walk you through installing, configuring, and using the CAI Mobile UI for the first time.
Prerequisites
Before you begin, ensure you have:
- CAI-Pro License: Active subscription from Alias Robotics
- iOS Device: iPhone or iPad running iOS 15.0+
- CAI API Server: Running CAI API server (v0.7.0+) on your network
- API Key: Valid
ALIAS_API_KEYfor authentication
Installation
Step 1: Join TestFlight Beta
- On your iOS device, visit: https://testflight.apple.com/join/nXZZD4Z5
- If prompted, install TestFlight from the App Store
- Accept the beta testing invitation
- Tap "Install" to download CAI Mobile UI
Step 2: Launch the App
- Find the CAI app icon on your home screen
- Tap to launch
- Grant necessary permissions when prompted:
- Local Network: Required for discovering CAI servers
- Notifications: Optional, for background task alerts

Initial Setup
Option A: Automatic Server Discovery
Perfect for local network setups:
-
Start your CAI API server on your computer:
Note the server address (e.g.,cai --apihttp://192.168.1.100:8000) -
On your iOS device:
- Ensure Wi-Fi is enabled and connected to the same network
- Tap "Scan Network" on the login screen
- Wait for the discovery process (usually 2-3 seconds)
-
Select your server from the list
-
Enter your API key:
- Paste or type your
ALIAS_API_KEY - Toggle "Remember Me" to save credentials
- Tap "Connect"
Option B: Manual Server Configuration
For remote servers or specific configurations:
- Server URL:
- Enter the complete URL (e.g.,
https://cai.company.com:8443) - Include the protocol (
http://orhttps://) -
Include the port if not standard
-
API Key:
- Enter your
ALIAS_API_KEY -
Toggle "Remember Me" for convenience
-
Advanced Options (tap gear icon):
- Timeout: Adjust connection timeout (default: 30s)
- SSL Verification: Toggle for self-signed certificates
-
Proxy: Configure if needed
-
Tap "Connect"
First Session
1. Welcome Screen
After successful connection, you'll see: - Agent selector at the top - Model selector below - Empty chat interface - Navigation tabs at bottom
2. Select an Agent
For your first session, we recommend:
- Tap the agent selector
- Choose
selection_agent- it helps recommend the right agent for your task - Or select a specific agent like:
red_teamer_agent- For offensive security testingblue_teamer_agent- For defensive analysisbug_hunter_agent- For vulnerability discovery
3. Choose a Model
- Tap the model dropdown
- Recommended models:
gpt-4o- Best overall performanceclaude-3.5-sonnet- Excellent for code analysisalias1- Optimized for security taskscohere/command-r-plus-08-2024- Great performance and value
4. Start Your First Conversation

Try these starter prompts:
For Security Testing:
Analyze the security of example.com
For Learning:
Explain how SQL injection works and how to prevent it
For Agent Recommendation:
I need to perform a penetration test on a web application. Which agent should I use?
5. Understanding Responses
As the agent responds, you'll see:
- Streaming Text: Responses appear in real-time
- Formatted Output: Code blocks, lists, and emphasis
- Thinking Indicators: When agents are processing
- Tool Usage: When agents use external tools

Essential Features
Message Interactions
- Copy Text: Long press any message → Copy
- Share Output: Long press → Share → Choose app
- Save Code: Tap code blocks → Copy button
- Retry Message: Swipe left on your message → Retry
Navigation
- Switch Conversations: Swipe left/right or use tab bar
- New Conversation: Tap + button
- View History: Tap clock icon
- Return Home: Tap CAI logo
Quick Actions
- Cancel Generation: Pull down while response is streaming
- Clear Chat: Shake device → Clear option
- Change Agent Mid-Chat: Tap agent name → Select new
- Export Session: Menu → Export → Choose format
Keyboard Shortcuts (iPad with External Keyboard)
| Shortcut | Action |
|---|---|
⌘ + N |
New conversation |
⌘ + W |
Close current chat |
⌘ + ←/→ |
Switch conversations |
⌘ + K |
Quick agent switch |
⌘ + / |
Focus message input |
⌘ + ↑ |
Previous message |
Best Practices
1. Network Connection
- Use Wi-Fi when possible for better performance
- Enable "Low Data Mode" in settings for cellular
- Download conversations for offline viewing
2. Security
- Enable Face ID/Touch ID in settings
- Don't share screenshots with API keys visible
- Use secure connections (HTTPS) when possible
3. Performance
- Close unused conversations to free memory
- Enable "Reduce Motion" for older devices
- Clear cache periodically in settings
Troubleshooting
Common Issues
Can't connect to server:
- Verify server is running: cai --api
- Check firewall allows port 8000
- Ensure devices are on same network
- Try manual IP instead of discovery
Authentication failed:
- Regenerate API key: cai --keys
- Check key hasn't expired
- Verify key matches server configuration
App crashes or freezes: - Force quit and restart app - Check for app updates in TestFlight - Clear app cache in settings - Report issue with crash logs
Getting Help
- In-App Help: Tap menu → Help
- Documentation: https://docs.aliasrobotics.com
- Discord Community: Join Discord
- Report Issues: GitHub Issues
Next Steps
Now that you're connected and running:
- 📱 Explore the User Interface
- 👆 Master Gestures & Shortcuts
- 💬 Learn Advanced Chat Features
- 🛠️ Configure Network & MCP Tools
Welcome to CAI Mobile UI - Security testing in your pocket!