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Desktop App Overview

The Tandem Desktop app is the primary interface for multi-session AI workflows, with the engine running locally for fast tool execution and private workspace context.

What Desktop Includes

  • Chat-first workflow for coding and research tasks.
  • Session and agent management for parallel work.
  • Provider/model controls and key management.
  • Approval and request center for tool safety.
  • Local config and state management through the engine.

Desktop vs TUI vs Engine

  • Desktop App: Visual app for daily work and orchestration.
  • TUI: Terminal-first workflow using the same backend model.
  • Engine: Headless runtime/API that powers both interfaces.
  1. Complete Desktop First 10 Minutes.
  2. Review Desktop Workflows.
  3. Use Desktop Learn Walkthroughs for guided examples.