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If you need a hand, find answers to the most common questions below — or reach us directly if you're still stuck.
Common questions
How do I use Aura?
Select text in any app, then press ⇧⌘P. Aura reads the selection, rewrites it with the active mode, and pastes the result back over it. A floating HUD shows the text streaming in — press esc at any point to cancel; your original text and clipboard are left untouched. You can also right-click a selection and choose Services → Aura.
Nothing happens when I press the shortcut.
Aura needs Accessibility permission to read your selection and paste the result back. Grant it in System Settings → Privacy & Security → Accessibility, make sure Aura is switched on, and relaunch it. If it worked before and stopped after an update, remove Aura from the Accessibility list with "–" and trigger it once more to be re-prompted.
Does my text get sent to the cloud?
No. Every engine Aura uses runs on your Mac — Apple Intelligence, Aura's own downloaded model, or a local server on 127.0.0.1. Your selected text is never uploaded to HANNCREST or any third party. There is no cloud rewrite mode.
Which engine should I use?
Leave it on Automatic and Aura picks the best one available: Apple Intelligence if your Mac has it, otherwise Aura's own model, then a local server, then the built-in no-AI cleanup. If you'd rather force a specific engine, choose it in Settings → Engine.
Do I have to download anything?
Only if you want Aura's own model. On macOS 26+ with Apple Intelligence, nothing needs downloading. Otherwise, open Settings → Model and download a model once (Expert, 2.8 GB, is recommended; Balanced is 1.2 GB) — after that it runs offline on your Mac's Neural Engine. Aura needs a Mac with Apple silicon and macOS 15 or later.
Can I add my own instructions?
Yes. Use the Custom Instruction field in the menu-bar panel for a one-off, or save reusable presets in Settings → Presets — "reply politely declining", "tighten for Slack", "translate to German" — each with its own keyboard shortcut.
How much is Aura, and is it a subscription?
Aura is a one-time purchase of $24.99 — no subscription and no account. That unlocks every mode, every engine, unlimited presets, and future updates.
Still need help?
Send us a message and we'll get back to you, usually within a couple of business days.