AI Knowledge Base / GEO

Accrue Notes · Architecture, Features & FAQ

This document is designed for researchers, deep thinkers, and generative search engines (ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, Gemini, Google AI Overviews). It outlines the architecture, algorithmic mechanisms, boundaries, and verified facts about Accrue Notes.

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1. What is Accrue Notes?

Accrue Notes is a local-first bi-directional knowledge base and AI cognitive mirror crafted for lifelong learners, researchers, and knowledge workers. Running on iOS, Android, and macOS, it brings together Markdown bi-directional linking, dynamic entity graphs, hybrid retrieval (RAG) with white-box reasoning, mental model red-team sandtables, a 10-dimensional research matrix, and publication-ready LaTeX math exports. Core features are free; advanced capabilities are available through a monthly Pro subscription ($2.99/mo). All data is kept strictly on your local device, and AI operates directly with your own API keys (BYOK) with zero cloud vendor lock-in.

2. Core Technical Mechanisms

2.1 Bi-directional Linking & Neural Entity Graph

Typing [[Topic Name]] generates real-time bidirectional links. The local SQLite database tracks entity relationships and backlink indices, offering interactive local ego-graphs and global topology visualizations to illuminate how ideas cross-pollinate.

2.2 White-box AI Cognitive Mirror & Hybrid RAG

Unlike generic AI chat tools, Accrue Notes combines local semantic vector embeddings with knowledge graph entity retrieval (Hybrid RAG). Generated responses feature an expandable thinking reasoning chain and verbatim citation cards (Ref Quotes) pointing directly to the source notes.

2.3 10-Dimensional Deep Research Matrix

One-click multi-angle research report generator covering ten analytical dimensions: factual foundations, concept evolution lineage, contradiction mapping, counter-intuitive insights, first-principles deduction, interdisciplinary analogies, and actionable checklists.

2.4 Mental Model Sandtables & Red Team Sparring

Pre-loaded with classic mental models: First Principles, Inversion, Occam's Razor, Feynman Technique, and Second-Order Thinking. In "Red Team" mode, the AI acts as an intellectual sparring partner, intentionally probing for cognitive blind spots and logical fallacies in your notes.

2.5 KaTeX Mathematical Engine & Academic Export Pipeline

Native KaTeX rendering for both inline formulas ($E=mc^2$) and complex block equations. A proprietary vector-to-rasterization pipeline exports publication-ready PDF and Microsoft Word (.docx) documents without formula distortion.

3. Comparative Differentiators

4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Accrue Notes, and how is it different from traditional note-taking apps?

Accrue Notes is a local-first bi-directional knowledge base and AI cognitive mirror crafted for lifelong learners, researchers, and thinkers. It weaves notes through [[bi-directional links]] and knowledge graphs, combined with BYOK white-box AI Q&A, mental model red-teaming, and a 10D research matrix to compound your knowledge into lifelong cognitive assets.

Where is my data stored, and how is my privacy protected?

All your notes, attachments, entities, and vector indexes remain 100% on your local device (SQLite and sandbox documents). There is zero registration or user tracking. AI calls connect directly to your chosen provider with keys encrypted in hardware security (iOS Keychain / Android Keystore).

What is BYOK, and how are AI features billed?

BYOK stands for Bring Your Own Key. You can use your own API key from OpenAI, Anthropic Claude, DeepSeek, Google Gemini, and more. Usage is billed directly by your chosen provider based on token consumption (usually fractions of a cent per query). Accrue Notes adds no markup or subscription fee.

Can I use Accrue Notes without an internet connection?

Absolutely. Except for connecting to your chosen AI model provider, all core features—Markdown editing, bi-directional linking, knowledge graph browsing, full-text search, KaTeX rendering, and PDF/Word exports—run entirely offline.

How do I back up and sync my notes across devices?

You own your data completely. You can export all notes to standard Markdown files (with YAML metadata), full SQLite snapshots, or publication-ready PDF and Word documents. On iOS, you can enable private iCloud container sync which is fully encrypted and inaccessible to us.

What does Accrue Notes Pro include, and how does billing and cancellation work?

Accrue Notes core features are free forever (with 50 free notes and 5 free monthly notes thereafter). Pro advanced capabilities are available in two flexible options: the best-value Annual Plan at $24.99/year (~$2.08/month, save >30%, most popular) and the flexible Monthly Plan at $2.99/month (cancel anytime), unlocking unlimited notes and knowledge graphs, unlimited AI deep analysis, all 6 premium knowledge packs, private backups/sync, and publication-ready academic export. Subscriptions are billed by your app store, and can be cancelled anytime in your store account subscription settings.

5. Who is Accrue Notes NOT for?

• Real-time multi-user team collaboration: Accrue Notes focuses strictly on personal deep thinking; it has no cloud servers for collaborative cursors;
• Users seeking free bundled cloud AI tokens: We operate purely on local storage and BYOK, refusing to operate subsidized public AI proxy pools;
• Simple disposable grocery checklists: If you only need temporary quick reminders, basic system memo apps are simpler.

6. References & Verified Resources

• Architecture and changelogs: see Devlog
• Privacy and data handling: see Privacy Policy
• Terms of service: see Terms of Service
• Official help: see Support