Getting Started
Use this quick path to go from first install to a complete note + AI workflow.
Applies to: 0.1.0-beta.1Last updated: February 2026
What You Can Do
Install Canto, activate your key, set your AI model, and create your first note in under 10 minutes.
Step-by-Step Setup
- Download the latest build from /download.
- Open the installer and launch Canto.
- Paste your license key when prompted, then click Activate.
- Open settings and choose an AI model that matches your hardware.
- Create a note and press Cmd+K to Ask AI for a summary.
macOS notes
On first launch, macOS may ask for permissions. Approve prompts so Canto can access local files and run smoothly.
If activation fails
Check your email key, then review the troubleshooting guide for device-limit and network fixes.
Screenshot Checklist
Save all screenshots under /img/docs/canto/.
| Filename | Capture Location | Place in Page |
|---|---|---|
| canto-getting-started-license-activation.png | First-launch license activation modal in Canto | Getting Started, "Step-by-Step Setup" (step 3) |
| canto-getting-started-first-note-ai.png | A note open with Ask AI result visible | Getting Started, final step completion example |
Documentation Screenshots
Images render automatically when files exist in /img/docs/canto/. Missing files show placeholders so publishing is never blocked.
Capture: First-launch license activation modal in Canto
Placement: Getting Started, "Step-by-Step Setup" (step 3)
Capture: A note open with Ask AI result visible
Placement: Getting Started, final step completion example