Aide
A customizable Android assistant (voice, choose your provider)
What is Aide?
Aide is an Android app that replaces your device's default voice assistant with an AI model of your choice. Instead of being locked into a single provider, you supply your own API key for Claude, OpenAI, Ollama, or any compatible service. This gives you control over which AI powers your assistant and how it behaves. The app works with voice input and text, letting you interact naturally with whichever model you prefer. It's useful if you want to avoid vendor lock-in, prefer a specific AI model's performance, or need to use a self-hosted option like Ollama.
Key Features
Bring your own API key
Connect Claude, OpenAI, Ollama, or OpenAI-compatible endpoints
Voice input and output
Speak to your assistant and receive spoken responses
Customisable behaviour
Configure how your assistant responds based on your needs
Replace default assistant
Acts as your primary Android voice assistant
Self-hosted option
Use Ollama for fully local, private inference
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- You choose your AI model rather than being locked into Android's default
- Works with multiple providers and self-hosted alternatives
- No vendor dependence; switch providers by changing your API key
- Reasonable pricing model with a free tier available
Limitations
- Requires managing your own API keys and potentially paying for API usage
- Limited to Android; not available on iOS or other platforms
- Depends on third-party API reliability and your internet connection
Use Cases
Users who prefer Claude or OpenAI over Google Assistant
People running local Ollama instances who want a voice interface
Developers and technical users wanting control over their assistant
Privacy-conscious users deploying self-hosted AI models
Teams needing a consistent AI assistant across company devices