Is OpenScience free?
The workbench is free and open source under Apache-2.0. Models, compute, and external services may cost money. Use Pricing to compare Ace, provider accounts, and local models.
Do I need an OpenScience account?
Yes for first-run setup. Ace is optional, and your own provider keys, supported subscriptions, and local models remain direct. An already configured installation can continue using those routes during an account-service outage. See Account and workspaces.
Is Ace a subscription?
Ace has no monthly subscription. It uses purchased funds or valid promotional credits. Usage is calculated for the route that serves each request. Direct provider routes add no funding or service fee. OpenRouter routes include its funding fee (5.5% by default) once, already included in displayed Wallet rates; the card processing fee is shown separately at checkout. Auto reload requires separate consent and a saved card: a fixed $20 is added below $5 of purchased funds, plus the disclosed processing fee. You can configure the monthly automatic-charge limit, not the reload amount or trigger.
Does switching to my own key turn off Ace reloads?
No. Change automatic reload authorization in Wallet. Selecting Keys & subscriptions only changes your preferred model access.
Can I use my existing provider subscription?
Where OpenScience offers a supported sign-in, access depends on your provider's account and terms. A consumer subscription does not automatically include API access. See Models.
Can I work offline?
A downloaded model served on your machine can generate responses offline. Web search, online scientific databases, remote connectors, and downloads still need a connection. See Local models.
Are local models charged to Ace?
Local model requests do not debit Ace. External search, connected services, and remote hosting can still have costs.
Where is my work?
Conversations are saved by OpenScience, and project files are available in the Files view. Project files and session scratch are distinct. Check Customize → Storage for app data locations and back up the project files you want to retain.
Does signing in synchronize all my research?
Do not treat account sign-in as a full project backup or cross-device copy. It supplies account access and supported shared connections. Export conversations and copy project inputs and outputs when moving work. See Files and storage.
Does Undo reverse everything?
Undo covers supported conversation and file changes. It does not reverse payments, messages, published content, or external service actions.
Are all skills and scientific tools ready immediately?
Skills are instructions. Some workflows need additional software, data, or accounts. Check Customize → Tools and Compute before a substantial run.
Will Ultra always give a better answer?
No. Ultra allows broader investigation and can use more resources. Choose it when comparing alternatives is useful, then verify the resulting evidence.
Can I trust a generated citation or scientific conclusion?
Check it against the original source and saved analysis. Ask OpenScience to distinguish observations, source claims, and interpretation, and to retain uncertainties and failed checks.
How do I export usage?
Open Customize → Usage, choose a source, date range, and model, then select Export CSV. See Usage reports for the distinction between Wallet charges and estimates.
Does a local model keep everything on my device?
Only the model inference is local. Online tools, remote compute, and signed-in trace sharing can still send data off the device. Review Privacy and data.
Where should I report a problem?
Use Troubleshooting first, then file a reproducible product issue on GitHub. Use your account's support options for private billing questions.