What does local-first mean for a Mac app?
Local-first means an app keeps its working data and makes its core decisions on your Mac. Its main features continue to work when the internet is slow or unavailable, unless a feature specifically needs an online service.
It describes how the app works, not its entire privacy policy.
Does local-first mean no internet?
No. A fully offline app never connects. A local-first app can still check for updates, verify a purchase, sign in, fetch public information, or synchronize optional data.
What matters is which features need a connection, what data they send, and what still works without one.
What should stay on the Mac?
Information used only for a local feature should normally remain on the Mac. Examples include device readings, file paths, command lines, calendar context, and the evidence behind a security result.
If any of that information is sent online, the product should explain exactly what leaves, why it is needed, where it goes, and how long it is kept.
When is an online service reasonable?
Examples of features that can use an online service include:
- Software and security updates
- Purchases and license delivery
- Accounts and abuse prevention
- Optional synchronization requested by the user
These services can fit a local-first design. Hidden uploads or requiring a server for every local decision do not.
How can an app support the claim?
A credible local-first app states what stays on the Mac, what goes online, why it is needed, and whether the connection is required or optional. Its settings and privacy notice use the same plain names.
It also shows when a local check could not run. An unavailable result is never presented as safe.
How does 41BIT use local-first?
Battery Sensei makes its battery and Meeting Guard decisions on the Mac, and event titles stay there. Its product privacy notice explains its current data use and online services.
The developer security software in development also makes core protection decisions on the Mac. Its final data flows will be published with the product.