sideOS

sideOS is an AI agent living in the MacBook notch reads screens, opens apps, clicks, types, and reports results.

sideOS is an AI agent that integrates directly into the MacBook notch to automate tasks across desktop applications. Users hold Control and Option while speaking requests, and the software reads the screen via the accessibility tree, opens applications, clicks elements, types text, and executes AppleScript. It features on-device dictation running entirely through macOS engines without cloud transcription, and handles background tasks like web searches, file reading, PDF rendering, and shell commands. The platform also records meetings, transcribes audio locally using Whisper, extracts action items, and manages smart reminders. Users can connect external services like Gmail, Calendar, Notion, Slack, and GitHub, or paste custom JSON configs. An optional activity history logs screen text locally for past reference while maintaining privacy.

sideOS at a glance

Best for: Product manager, Founder
Runs on: macOS
Pricing: Paid
Released: October 2026
Category: AI agent tool
Website: sideos.ai

Key features

Reads the live screen via the accessibility tree
Drives apps by opening, clicking, and typing
Runs on-device dictation in any application
Executes background tasks in a separate loop
Records and transcribes meetings locally
Sets reminders that complete work automatically
Connects external tools via one-click integrations
Maintains an opt-in local activity history log

Use it for

Drafting notes after analyzing a screen region
Running long background research and report writing tasks
Recording meetings and turning action items into reminders
Dictating text hands-free into any desktop application
Answering questions about past screen activity and history

Alternatives to sideOS

Sayonic — Controls Mac apps, files, and events using natural voice or text commands.
Assist — It runs invisibly in your MacBook notch to handle live meeting transcripts.
BrowserOS — Runs entirely locally and lets AI agents use real user logins to complete tasks.
Sidekins — It visits friends' desks and runs errands while you work.
Memoe — It uses existing AI accounts or local models without a subscription fee.
Alook — Connects existing local coding agents to team communication channels.
Sidekeys — Turns an iPhone into an extra Mac display, app shortcut deck, and AI agent dashboard.
Sierra — Enterprise support agents with outcome-based pricing
Bluey By Riley — A blueberry character on an iPhone controls the Mac screen and manages meeting notes.
Pip — It sees your screen and points directly at the exact button to click.
Agibot — Runs continuously on your Mac and integrates with Telegram and Slack.
Atticus Mac — Runs locally using your existing Claude plan without requiring an API key.

All sideOS alternatives