Howler: open-source macOS app for AI chats that leave no saved history
Overview
Aries Zhou releases Howler, an open-source macOS app that opens a parchment-style window with Option+H to query AI models, according to The Register.
Responses stay in memory only and are not saved as chat history, requests go directly to the chosen AI service, and the API key is stored in the macOS Keychain.
Setup is the main obstacle. Per The Register, installing Howler requires either a coding agent that can run commands, such as Claude Code, or manual configuration. Once set up, it connects to supported models through an API key or to compatible models running locally.
The Register reports that the AI provider may still retain the exchange, so the app's lack of saved history does not cover what the service itself stores.
Written by AI from the articles below · updated Oct 29, 4:30 PM ET
Check the sources:
Article timeline
The articles in this story. Times are ET.
- The Register · AINewsHowler lets Mac users ask AI questions in a self-burning parchment window
AIHowler is an open-source macOS app by developer Aries Zhou that opens a parchment-style window with Option+H and queries AI models without saving history. Responses are kept in memory only, requests go directly to the chosen AI service, and the API key is stored in the macOS Keychain. The app requires setup through a coding agent such as Claude Code or manual configuration, and the AI provider may still retain the exchange.
Heat Trend
Not enough continuous observations to show a trend yet.