LocalGPT: A 27MB Local AI Assistant Made with Rust [2026]

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LocalGPT: A 27MB Local AI Assistant Made with Rust

  • GitHub Stars: 280
  • Language: Rust (93.1%)
  • License: Apache-2.0

Why This Project is Trending

LocalGPT is an AI assistant that runs locally. Your data doesn’t leave your machine. It’s gaining attention as privacy concerns around cloud AI grow.[GitHub]

It operates as a single 27MB binary, without Node.js, Docker, or Python. The fact that a developer completed it in just 4 nights is also a hot topic.[GitHub]

What Can It Do?

  • Persistent Memory: Stores long-term memory in MEMORY.md. Searches using SQLite FTS5 and sqlite-vec.
  • Autonomous Tasks: Automatically processes task queues via HEARTBEAT.md.
  • Diverse Interfaces: Supports CLI, web UI, desktop GUI, and HTTP API.
  • Multi LLM: Can connect to various providers like Claude, OpenAI, and Ollama.

Quick Start

# Installation
cargo install localgpt

# Interactive Chat
localgpt chat

# Daemon Mode (Web UI + API)
localgpt daemon

Where Would It Be Useful?

Suitable for developers handling sensitive data. Useful in situations where you’re hesitant to upload company code to the cloud.[GitHub]

Also good as a personal knowledge management tool. Markdown-based, so it’s easy to integrate with existing notes.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • Requires a Rust build environment (cargo). This could be a barrier to entry.
  • As an early-stage project with 280 stars, long-term maintenance remains to be seen.
  • Ollama provides a completely local experience, but using Claude/OpenAI means API calls go externally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Does using LocalGPT ensure my data doesn’t go outside?

A: Memory and search data are stored in a local SQLite database. However, if you use Claude or OpenAI as the LLM, the conversation content is sent to their servers. For completely local execution, you should use a local LLM like Ollama. The level of privacy depends on the provider you choose.

Q: How does persistent memory work?

A: It’s based on Markdown files. Long-term memories are stored in MEMORY.md, and structured information in the knowledge directory. Keyword searches are performed with SQLite FTS5, and semantic searches with sqlite-vec. It automatically loads the previous context even when the session changes.

Q: What are the advantages compared to existing AI tools?

A: It can be executed as a single 27MB binary without dependencies. Just one line: `cargo install`. Markdown memory is transparent because you can directly read and edit it. HEARTBEAT autonomous tasks are a rare feature in other local AI tools.

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References

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