backchannel
Windows x64
For Windows 10 or later on 64-bit Intel or AMD processors.
- Download
Backchannel-windows-x64.zip. - Unzip it and run
Backchannel.exe. - If SmartScreen appears, choose More info, then Run anyway.
Release v0.1.0
Desktop builds for Backchannel
The first Backchannel desktop release gives Windows and macOS users a zip download, a double-clickable app, and the same browser UI without installing Docker first.
Download the executable
These are unsigned open-source builds attached to the GitHub release. The first run includes the normal Windows SmartScreen or macOS Gatekeeper prompts.
macOS Apple Silicon
For Apple Silicon Macs. Intel macOS builds are not included in this release.
- Download
Backchannel-macos-arm64.zip. - Unzip it and move
Backchannel.appwherever you keep apps. - Right-click
Backchannel.appand choose Open the first time.
Why this release matters
Docker remains available for full self-hosting and development, but the desktop app removes the biggest setup hurdle for people who just want to run Backchannel locally.
No Docker required
The desktop package starts the local backend, serves the frontend, and stores data per user.
Same product surface
The app opens the normal Backchannel browser UI, including live transcription, insights, speaker correction, exports, and chat.
Docker path unchanged
Use Compose when you want containers, local development, server deployment, or the optional Sortformer diarizer.
First-run notes
| Need | What to do |
|---|---|
| Provider key | Add a Gemini key in Admin -> API Keys after launch. Add OpenAI only if you route agents to OpenAI. |
| Audio imports | WAV, FLAC, and OGG work out of the box. MP3 and M4A imports need ffmpeg on your PATH. |
| Diarization | The desktop app uses the built-in lightweight diarizer. Use Docker Compose for optional Sortformer diarization. |
| Source | Backchannel remains open source. Review the code, Docker path, and release workflow on GitHub. |
Start with the desktop app or self-host the stack
Both paths run Backchannel on your machine. Choose the executable for the fastest start, or Compose for maximum control.