Jan is an open-source desktop app for chatting with AI models that run on your own computer, positioned as an open alternative to ChatGPT.
In plain words
You install Jan on Windows, Mac or Linux. On first launch it downloads a default model, and a built-in hub lets you browse more models and shows which ones your hardware can handle. It also includes web search tools, connectors for MCP, and a local API server so other programs can use the same models.
A quick example
Imagine a student with a mid-range laptop. They install Jan, open the hub, pick a model marked as suitable for their machine, and ask it to explain homework topics, with the model running on their own laptop.
Where you'll meet it
- Private, local chat with open models.
- A local API for testing apps against open models.
Related
Sources
- DocsJan README, Jan (GitHub) · read 29 Sept 2026
- DocsJan Docs, Jan · read 29 Sept 2026
- DocsJan Desktop Quickstart, Jan · read 29 Sept 2026
Checked by WhatIsAI against the sources above · 29 Sept 2026. Spotted an error? Report it.