> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.boltai.com/docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.boltai.com/docs/chat-ui/basic-chat.md).

# Basic Chat

### Start a new chat

1. Select your favorite AI service & model. Optionally enable AI plugins.
2. (Optional) Choose an AI Assistant for more accurate AI answers
3. Choose a predefined message from the library OR
4. Enter your message (Use `Option + Return` or `Shift + Return` for new line)
5. Alternatively, you can click the "waveform" button (5) for voice chat (requires OpenAI API key)

<figure><img src="/files/JajdHtf39EdLbU4q4gVs" alt=""><figcaption><p>Main Chat UI — Clean but powerful</p></figcaption></figure>

### Add a new AI Service

BoltAI supports multiple AI services: OpenAI, Anthropic, Azure AI Service, OpenRouter, Mistral, Perplexity AI, Google AI, Groq and local LLMs via Ollama or LM Studio.

To add a new AI service, go to Settings > Models. Click the plus button and select the service type.

<figure><img src="/files/qIS5S3xBzhKWkhbDYX0x" alt=""><figcaption><p>Add a new Service / Model to BoltAI</p></figcaption></figure>