What it is

Dyad is a local, open-source AI app builder for developer tools and AI-assisted coding. It is positioned as a desktop alternative to hosted builders such as Lovable, v0, and Bolt, running on the user's own machine. The project is written in TypeScript and distributed through a public GitHub repository under a split license: code outside src/pro is Apache 2.0, while code inside src/pro is Functional Source License 1.1 Apache 2.0.

The problem it addresses is dependence on cloud-hosted AI app builders. Those services can create lock-in around projects, billing, model access, and data location. Dyad instead asks users to bring their own AI API keys and run the builder locally, keeping development on the user's hardware. This supports fast, private iteration and user control over the tooling around generated applications.

Key capabilities

• The app runs locally on Mac and Windows, per the README cross-platform list.
• The app uses bring-your-own AI API keys, so users configure model access rather than relying on bundled access.
• The app targets AI-assisted application building, per its name, tagline, category, and topic.
• The app is aimed at AI and web workflows named in its topics, including Anthropic, DeepSeek, Gemini, GitHub, LLMs, and Next.js.
• The app provides a downloadable client with no sign-up required.
• The project supports community help through r/dyadbuilders, where users share projects and ask questions.

Who uses it and how

• Developers building web applications with AI assistance can use Dyad as a local builder instead of a hosted interface.
• Users with existing API keys can connect model access and keep project files locally.
• Mac and Windows users can install the client and begin work without an account.
• Contributors can read the contributing document and submit changes through GitHub.
• Community members can share generated apps, compare workflows, and seek help in r/dyadbuilders.

Getting started

The README directs users to download the Dyad client from https://www.dyad.sh/#download, with no sign-up required.

When to use it — and when not to

Dyad suits users wanting a local alternative to Lovable, v0, or Bolt who supply their own AI API keys. It is less suitable for users needing a hosted service or a fully open-source core, because src/pro is fair-source under the Functional Source License 1.1 Apache 2.0. The README does not describe database, storage, SMTP, or deployment management, so operational details need checking before production use.