FAQ
Which file types are supported?
PDF, images (JPEG, PNG, TIFF, HEIC, WebP, BMP, GIF — with OCR and EXIF extraction), Office documents (Word .docx, Excel .xlsx), emails (EML), HTML, RTF, and audio/video files (metadata such as title, artist, duration). All other files — e.g. PowerPoint or Outlook MSG — are handled by the generic processor based on filename, size, and creation date.
Are my files uploaded to the cloud?
No, the file itself is never uploaded. What is transmitted is the locally extracted text (via on-device text recognition for images), the current filename, and — with your own API key — extracted metadata. With the default Distill Cloud provider, this data goes to the Distill backend, which passes it to OpenAI for analysis. With Ollama, all data stays locally on your Mac.
Can I undo a rename?
Yes, every rename is saved in the history. You can revert individual renames at any time via the history or the API.
How much does Distill cost?
The app is free. On first launch you get 100 AI credits free. Additional credits cost €1.99 (100), €4.99 (400), or €8.99 (1,000) — no subscription. In the DMG edition you can alternatively provide your own API key (Anthropic, OpenAI, Google) — then no Distill credits are spent, you pay directly at the provider. Ollama (DMG edition only) is always completely free.
What is 1 credit?
1 credit = 1 AI-generated filename. Credits are only consumed when using Distill Cloud as the provider. With your own API key or Ollama (both DMG edition only), no credits are consumed.
Do I need an API key?
No. Distill Cloud (default) works without a key. In the DMG edition you can additionally use Ollama (local, no key) or provide your own API key for Claude, OpenAI, or Gemini — this saves Distill credits. In the App Store edition, Distill Cloud is the only provider.
Can Distill watch folders automatically?
Yes, under Folders you can add directories. New files are detected by comparing the folder contents — including files copied in via Finder. Without auto-rename they appear as suggestions in the Files tab for you to review and confirm. With auto-rename enabled they are queued, analyzed, and renamed automatically.
How do the App Store and DMG editions differ?
The DMG edition offers all five AI providers, a REST API enabled by default, the bundled MCP server for AI assistants, Stripe payment, promo code redemption, and a built-in auto-updater. The App Store edition is sandboxed and limited to Distill Cloud (Apple IAP); its REST API can be enabled opt-in under Settings → API, and the MCP server is not included. The feature core and credit pricing are identical.
How do I update Distill?
In the DMG edition via the app menu "Distill → Check for Updates…". In the App Store edition via the Mac App Store.
Can I redeem promo codes?
Yes, but only in the DMG edition (Apple guideline 3.1.1). With Distill Cloud selected as the provider, you will find the "Redeem Code" button under "Settings → AI"; alternatively, redemption is available from the buy-credits window.