Install and requirements

System requirements, App Store vs Direct, updates, and data directories

Requirements

Requirement	Detail
OS	macOS 15 Sequoia or later
Chip	Apple Silicon (M-series)
Network	Needed for GitHub sync, Explore, online purchase
GitHub	Account required to sync Stars

Desktop clients are macOS-only. CLI can run on more platforms, but data still comes from a paired Starcat app.

Download channels

Mac App Store

• Starcat for GitHub
• Auto updates; App Store sandbox
• Pro via StoreKit (Apple ID)

Direct (website)

• starcat.ink
• Download DMG → drag to Applications
• Updates via Sparkle
• Pro via web checkout + license key

App Store and Direct builds use separate local data directories. Switching channels means a new local library—back up first; do not copy database files blindly.

Install steps

1. Download

   Get the latest build from the App Store or website.
2. Install

   • App Store: installs into Applications automatically
   • Direct: open the DMG and drag Starcat to Applications
3. First launch

   If Gatekeeper blocks: System Settings → Privacy & Security → Open Anyway.

4. Onboarding

   Full-screen welcome appears once. Replay later from Settings → General (resets Getting Started checklist progress).

Updates

Channel	How
App Store	App Store updates
Direct	Sparkle on launch / manual check

Next

Quickstart