TerminAI provides a local-first, AI-powered operator for the terminal, moving beyond copy-pasting instructions to safe, governed system execution. It targets general users, developers, and engineers, enabling them to execute complex tasks via natural language intent with explicit controls and auditable logs.

How It Works

TerminAI functions as a governed AI system operator. Users express intent, the system inspects the machine, proposes a plan, and facilitates approvals before execution. It uniquely supports true PTY (pseudo-terminal) sessions for interactive applications like sudo, ssh, and editors. A deterministic approval ladder (Levels A, B, C) governs execution, with Level C requiring a PIN for destructive actions. All operations are logged locally in JSONL format, providing a tamper-evident audit trail. The system is model-agnostic, integrating with Google Gemini, OpenAI, and local LLM gateways.

Quick Start & Requirements

The CLI installs globally via npm: npm i -g @terminai/cli. Prerequisites include Node.js 20+ and platform-specific build tools for optional desktop builds (Rust, VS Build Tools, etc.). Setup involves running terminai for a configuration wizard. Preview desktop installers are available on GitHub Releases: https://github.com/Prof-Harita/terminaI/releases.

Highlighted Details

• True PTY Support: Handles interactive terminal sessions robustly.
• Governed Autonomy: Strict policy engine and multi-level approval process (A/B/C) for safe execution.
• Local Audit Trail: Generates structured JSONL logs for intent and actions, ensuring privacy and traceability.
• Provider Flexibility: Integrates with Google Gemini, OpenAI (OAuth), and OpenAI-compatible endpoints, including local LLMs.
• Local-First & Private: Core operations run on the user's machine with zero telemetry.

Maintenance & Community

The project is described as "best-effort OSS" with "Contributions welcome." No specific community channels or details on maintainers/sponsorships are provided.

Licensing & Compatibility

Licensed under Apache-2.0, which is permissive for commercial use and integration into closed-source projects.

Limitations & Caveats

TerminAI is in "Public Preview (v0.x)," indicating ongoing development. Desktop, voice, and A2A features are experimental and still being hardened. Users should "expect power; expect rough edges."