OpenRouter mobile app path for people who want their own key.
OpenRouter is useful when you want provider choice. Phos supports the own-key pattern without turning Phos itself into a company-hosted inference product.
At a glance
Phos supports OpenRouter on Android through BYOK, so users can use their own key while keeping Phos no-login and local-first.
How Phos handles it
Three clear routes
Local model
Local mode avoids provider calls when a local model is active.
Local server
Local server mode uses the endpoint you run.
Bring your own key
OpenRouter BYOK mode sends requests to OpenRouter with your key. Phos should show that boundary plainly.
Who this is for
Built for people with real private work to do.
Users who already have an OpenRouter key.
People who want stronger online models only when local is not enough.
Power users who want one Android app for local, local server, and BYOK routes.
Plain comparison
The point is control, not a louder chatbot.
These pages are for people comparing real options. Phos should win when someone wants privacy, local control, no account wall, and an assistant that still feels good to use.
| Feature | Phos | Typical cloud chatbot | Raw local app |
|---|---|---|---|
| No login | Yes. Open the app and start. | Usually requires an account. | Often yes, but setup can be technical. |
| Local mode | Yes. Supported through local model paths. | No. Prompts go to the platform. | Yes, if the model loads on the device. |
| Own API key | Yes. Use your provider key when you choose. | Usually no. | Sometimes. |
| Memory control | User controlled memory with delete, export, and reset paths. | Platform controlled or account tied. | Varies. |
| Everyday workflows | Think through, draft message, study, and plan day. | General chat first. | Usually just a model prompt box. |
BYOK is not the same as offline
BYOK gives control over the provider account and billing path, but the provider still receives the request. That difference should be visible, not buried.
Why combine BYOK with local
Local mode is best for sensitive everyday thoughts. BYOK is useful when you knowingly need a stronger remote model or a specific provider.
Why people remember Phos after trying it
Phos is not only a privacy checklist. The first-use loop is designed to feel calm: open the app, choose a way to think, let the mascot help with local setup when needed, and keep memory under your control. That product feel is the part a comparison table usually misses.