FAQ
Which file types are supported?
PDF, images (JPEG, PNG, TIFF, HEIC), Office documents (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), emails (EML, MSG), HTML, RTF and media files (EXIF, ID3 tags). Unrecognized files are handled by the generic processor.
Are my files uploaded to the cloud?
No, never the file itself — only the extracted text is sent to the AI provider. 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. With your own API key (Anthropic, OpenAI, Google) no Distill credits are spent, you pay directly at the provider. Ollama 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, no credits are consumed.
Do I need an API key?
No. Distill Cloud (default) and Ollama (local) work without a key. For Claude, OpenAI, or Gemini you can optionally provide your own API key — this saves Distill credits.
Can Distill watch folders automatically?
Yes, under Folders you can add directories. New files are automatically detected and queued. Optionally they can be renamed directly.
How do the App Store and DMG editions differ?
The DMG edition offers all five AI providers, a REST API enabled by default, Stripe payment, promo code redemption, and a built-in auto-updater. The App Store edition is sandboxed and limited to Distill Cloud (Apple IAP). 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). Under "Settings → AI" you will find the "Redeem code" button.