Setup questions
Do I need every surface?
No. Most users need only one surface at first.
Which guide should I start with?
Start with the surface where you already work: website, browser, iPhone, IDE, or OpenClaw.
When do I need an API key?
You need one for MCP and OpenClaw cloud features. Read Get API Key before configuring either one.
Is the demo page the documentation?
No. The demo explains the product story. The docs explain setup, usage, and troubleshooting.
Mode questions
Is the Chrome extension browser-local in the current release?
No. The browser extension is documented as cloud-only now.
What is local-only mode in OpenClaw?
It means the localhost UI can still browse local markdown files even when cloud sync is not active.
Can OpenClaw move from local browsing to cloud sync later?
Yes, but read the OpenClaw guide carefully so you understand what becomes account-backed and what remains local.
Does cloud mode mean every message is always searched?
No. In OpenClaw, normal chat retrieval is model-driven, while manual command retrieval is explicit.
Surface questions
Is the OpenClaw local UI the same as the memory graph?
No. The localhost UI reads local markdown files. The memory graph is a separate cloud web surface.
Can the Chrome extension replace MCP?
No. The extension is for browser chat sites. MCP is for IDEs and agent clients.
Can I use MCP without the extension UI?
Yes, if you have the required backend access and API key flow set up correctly.
Can I use OpenClaw without cloud sync?
You can still use the local UI for local file browsing, but cloud sync and search need valid cloud configuration.
Does the website guide replace the iOS app guide?
No. The website guide covers web login, graph entry, API keys, and invites. The iOS guide covers the native EchoChat product flow.