Help and Setup

Install, update, and get back to learning.

Setup guidance for Mac and Windows, local AI model setup, updates, profiles, and troubleshooting.

Download Fikira What's New?
Installation
Getting Fikira running on your computer.
Most users should start on the download page, then use these notes if setup or updates need explanation.
1

Mac (Apple Silicon)

Download the arm64 DMG from the download page. Open it and drag Fikira into your Applications folder. Right-click and choose Open on first launch if Gatekeeper prompts you.

Version 26.6.9 is signed, notarized, and Gatekeeper verified.
2

Mac (Intel)

Download the standard DMG from the download page. Open it and drag Fikira into Applications. The Intel build supports Mac OS 12 Monterey or later.

3

Windows

Download the .exe installer and run it. Windows SmartScreen may show a warning for unsigned installers. Click More Info, then Run Anyway.

Windows is currently an unsigned beta.
Updates
Keeping Fikira current.
The current version is 26.6.9. Users on older versions may need one manual install from the download page before automatic updates work reliably.
1

Check for Updates

Use the Check for Updates option in the Fikira menu. Fikira includes a live manifest fallback so stale installs do not silently report a false current version.

2

Manual Install

If the automatic update check shows an error or reports an incorrect version, download the current installer directly from the download page and reinstall over the existing copy.

3

Release Notes

Each release is documented on the What's New page. Check there for changes, known issues, and the current version number before reporting a problem.

Profiles
Shared devices need continuity.
Known users can return to their profile without repeating onboarding. Account-backed restore and cross-device child login are part of the active product direction.

Select Your Profile

Choose the learner, parent/caregiver, or teacher using the app at the start of each session.

Keep Progress

Switching users should not erase learning state. Profile data is stored locally and persists between sessions.

Account Restore

Account-backed restore across devices is part of the architecture direction and is actively in development.

Local Storage
Your data stays on your device.
Fikira stores learning work, profiles, and progress locally by default. No account is required for core functionality. Network access is only used for AI queries that require it.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Apple Silicon and Intel Mac?
Apple Silicon (arm64) refers to Macs made from late 2020 onward using Apple's M1, M2, M3, or M4 chips. Intel Macs are older models using Intel processors. If you are unsure which you have, click the Apple menu, then About This Mac, and look at the chip or processor listed.
Why does Windows show a SmartScreen warning?
The current Windows build is unsigned. This means Windows SmartScreen shows a warning on first launch. Click More Info, then Run Anyway to proceed. Signing the Windows build is on the active development roadmap.
Does Fikira require an internet connection?
Core features run locally. The local AI model requires a one-time download on first launch. Some tutoring features that use a cloud model require an internet connection. The download page notes which features require connectivity.
How do I switch between learner profiles?
Open Fikira and use the profile switcher at the top of the screen. Each profile maintains its own context, grade level, and subject settings.
What should I do if Fikira does not open after installation?
On Mac, try right-clicking the app icon and choosing Open instead of double-clicking. This bypasses Gatekeeper for first-launch trust. On Windows, check that your antivirus is not blocking the installer. If the issue persists, download a fresh copy from the download page.
What does the profile PIN do, and why should I use one?

Each Fikira profile can be protected with a 6-digit PIN. When a PIN is set, anyone using the same computer must enter the correct PIN before accessing that profile's learning context, saved work, and settings.

This is useful any time Fikira is installed on a shared computer: a school lab machine, a family computer, a library terminal, or any device used by more than one person. The PIN keeps each learner's profile, progress, and context private from others on the same device. No account or internet connection is required for the PIN to work. All verification happens locally on the device.

To set or change your PIN, open your profile settings from within Fikira. Your PIN is hashed and stored locally. Fikira does not transmit PINs to any server.

Where can I report a problem or request a feature?
Send a message to fikira@framethechangelab.com with a description of the issue, your operating system, and the Fikira version number. Include a screenshot if the issue is visual.