What is an API key?
An API key is a short secret string — usually starting with "sk-" — that lets RoleChat AI talk to an AI provider on your behalf. It's how the app knows you're allowed to use the AI.
You bring your own key, which means you choose the provider, you pay only for what you use, and your conversations go directly between your browser and that provider. There is no middleman.
Step 1: Choose a provider
RoleChat AI works with any provider that offers an OpenAI-compatible API. Popular choices include well-known labs and newer low-cost providers. Pick one that's available in your region and fits your budget.
Not sure where to start? Look for a provider with a generous free trial or low per-message pricing. You can always switch later by pasting a new key into Settings.
Step 2: Create an account and generate a key
Sign up at your chosen provider's website, then find the "API keys" or "Access tokens" section of your dashboard. Click "Create new key," give it a name you'll remember, and copy the string it shows you.
Important: most providers only show the full key once. Save it somewhere safe right away — if you lose it, you'll need to generate a new one.
Step 3: Add it to RoleChat AI
Open the RoleChat AI app, click Settings, and paste your key into the "API Key" field. Add the provider's endpoint URL into the "API Endpoint" field (this is usually shown on the same dashboard page as your key).
Optionally, choose a model from the dropdown. If you're unsure, pick the provider's recommended default — it's balanced for quality and cost.
That's it. You're ready to chat. Your key stays in your browser and is never sent to us.
Keeping your key safe
Never share your API key publicly — it's like a password for your AI account. If you think it's been compromised, regenerate it at your provider and update Settings.
On a shared or public device, don't enable "save key to this browser." On your own device, it's safe to save it for convenience.