First launch: index your first folder

The first time you open Cosmos, it asks for one thing: a folder to remember. That can be a code repository, a notes vault, or any directory. Cosmos indexes its symbols and text on-device, incrementally, in the background — and your AI tools can then recall it over MCP.

What Cosmos asks for

On first open, the only required step is choosing a folder. Cosmos reads it locally and builds a searchable index of:

• Code symbols — functions, classes, and where they're called.
• Text — comments, docs, and notes.

Nothing is uploaded; everything stays on your machine.

1. Add your first folder

Click "+ Add folder" in the left tree, or drag a folder directly onto the Cosmos window.

2. Pick a repo

Choose a repository (or any directory) you want the AI to remember. Cosmos starts indexing immediately.

3. Wait for the indexer badge

Indexing runs in the background and updates incrementally. Watch the indexer badge — once it settles, the folder is fully indexed and ready.

4. Done — your AI can recall it

That's it. Your connected AI tools can now recall this folder through the Cosmos MCP server. Ask your AI about a symbol or a past fix and it answers from the freshly indexed folder.

Add more folders anytime

You can add more folders whenever you like. Each folder stays scoped on-device, and nothing is uploaded. Add a second repo, a notes vault, or a docs directory and they all become recall-able.

Where is my data stored?

Locally, in data/brain_v2/brain.db next to the app. Your indexed content never leaves your machine.

Does indexing upload anything?

No. Indexing is fully on-device. Cloud backup is an optional Pro feature you turn on explicitly — see Pro features & cloud backup.

How do I connect my AI tool to this folder?

The onboarding wizard installs the MCP server for you. For manual setup, see Connect your AI tools (MCP).