How do I set up the AI API key?
Smooth Operator's AI features are powered by Claude, an AI model from Anthropic. To use the AI Camera Assistant and Video Analysis Plan, you need an API key from Anthropic.
Do I need to set up an API key?
Smooth Operator comes with an embedded key that allows basic AI functionality out of the box. However, for the best experience and reliability, we recommend setting up your own API key:
- With the embedded key: You can use AI features, but availability may vary.
- With your own key: Full, reliable access to AI features with your own usage limits and billing.
How to get an API key
- Go to the Anthropic Console.
- Sign up or log in.
- Navigate to the API Keys section.
- Create a new API key. It will start with "sk-ant-".
- Copy the key to your clipboard.
How to enter your API key
On Mac
- Open Smooth Studio.
- Go to Smooth Studio → Preferences (Cmd+,).
- Click the AI tab.
- Paste your API key into the "Claude API Key" field.
- Click "Save Key."
On iOS
- Open the AI Camera Assistant from the editor's hamburger menu.
- Tap the settings gear icon.
- Tap "AI Settings."
- In the "API Key" section, enter your key.
- The key is saved automatically.
Validating your key
A valid API key:
- Starts with "sk-ant-"
- Is more than 40 characters long
If you enter an invalid key, the app shows: "Invalid format. API keys should start with 'sk-ant-'"
Removing or changing your key
- On Mac: In Preferences → AI, click "Remove Custom Key" to delete your key and fall back to the embedded key. To change it, simply paste a new key and save.
- On iOS: In AI Settings, tap "Remove API Key" and confirm. Enter a new key afterward.
Is my API key secure?
Yes. Your API key is stored securely in the device Keychain — the same secure storage used for passwords and credentials. It is never sent to any server other than Anthropic's API.
Which AI model does Smooth Operator use?
By default, Smooth Operator uses:
- Claude Sonnet 4 for AI Camera Assistant and Video Analysis Plan
On Mac, you can switch to Claude Haiku 3.5 in Preferences → AI if you prefer faster, lower-cost responses. Haiku is faster but less detailed than Sonnet.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| "Invalid format" error | Make sure your key starts with "sk-ant-" and is the full key (40+ characters). |
| AI returns an error | Check that your Anthropic account has available credits. Go to console.anthropic.com to verify. |
| AI features not working | Try removing and re-entering your key. Ensure you have an internet connection. |
| Want to use the embedded key | Remove your custom key. The app falls back to the embedded key automatically. |