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Mains Connect lets you use the local backend, share this machine with another device, or connect to a backend on another machine. Older releases and links call this feature Relay. The existing Relay documentation URLs continue to describe Mains Connect.

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Choose where work runs

Repositories, provider credentials, and execution stay on the chosen backend. The client displays its work and sends requests.

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Open Connect

Open Settings → Mains Connect. This machine controls hosting. Run on lists your local and saved remote backends. Choose a saved backend and connect. Return to Local (this machine) when you want your Mac’s work again. The browser client is already connected to the server that served it. It does not offer the desktop’s backend-switching controls.

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It is a connection, not a sync

Remote clients use one backend’s database. Mains Connect does not merge workspaces or histories from independent machines. Bridge is the separate feature that syncs Atlas and chats between independent backends. Use it when you want another device’s work available even while that device is off. A chat synced through Bridge is read-only on other devices, and Continue with remote control opens Settings → Mains Connect to act on it.

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Access and compatibility

Use device pairing for a phone and one-use login links for browsers. A desktop direct or SSH connection can use the backend’s owner token. Keep client and backend versions compatible. Native desktop features such as Lens and the embedded browser do not become remote capabilities merely because the backend is connected.