TheBar

Do I need an API key to use TheBar?

If you choose Apple Intelligence as your AI Engine, no key is required — it runs entirely on your device. For ChatGPT, Gemini, or Claude you'll need a free or paid API key from that provider:

• OpenAI (ChatGPT): platform.openai.com
• Google Gemini: aistudio.google.com
• Anthropic (Claude): console.anthropic.com

Where do I enter my API key?

Tap the gear icon (⚙️) in the top-right corner to open Settings. Choose your AI Engine, enter your key in the API Key field, then tap Save API Key.

Is my API key stored safely?

Yes. Your API key is stored in the iOS Keychain on your device and is never sent to any server other than the AI provider you selected.

Why does the recipe use ingredients I don't have?

TheBar does its best to stick to your inventory, but AI models occasionally suggest items outside it. Tap Make Another and the app will try again with tighter constraints. Make sure your inventory is up to date in the Inventory tab.

Apple Intelligence won't generate a recipe.

Apple Intelligence requires iOS 26 or later and must be enabled on your device. Go to Settings → Apple Intelligence & Siri and make sure it's turned on. The model may also need time to finish downloading. If it continues to decline, try switching to a different AI Engine in TheBar's Settings.

The recipe shows as plain text instead of a card.

This can happen if the AI response doesn't follow the expected format. Tap Make Another to generate a new recipe. If it happens consistently, try switching to a different AI Engine.

Can I save a recipe?

Use your phone's screenshot button or share the screen to save a recipe you love. Saved recipes are not currently stored within the app.

How do I add items to my inventory?

Tap Inventory in the top navigation, then tap the + button next to any category. You can also add a new category by tapping Add Category.

How do I rename or delete a category?

Tap the ✏️ icon next to the category name to rename it, or the 🗑 icon to delete the entire category and its items.

Will my settings sync across my devices?

Yes. Your inventory, bar configuration, and settings sync automatically via iCloud to any iPhone or iPad signed into the same Apple ID.

How do I back up my data?

Go to Settings (⚙️) → Backup. This opens the iOS share sheet so you can save your backup file to Files, send it via Mail, or store it anywhere you like.

How do I restore from a backup?

Go to Settings (⚙️) → Restore and select your previously saved .json backup file.

How do I reset everything to defaults?

Scroll to the bottom of Settings and tap Reset to Defaults. This restores your inventory, bar name, quick buttons, and configuration to their original values.