{"slug": "show-hn-gotcha-first-on-device-ai-copilot-for-android", "title": "Show HN: Gotcha- First on-device AI copilot for Android", "summary": "Gotcha, an on-device AI copilot for Android developed by Samosa AI, is now available as an APK on GitHub Releases, enabling users to control device functions through natural language commands. The app features two copilot modes—'Inspect & Plan' for zero-risk analysis and 'Execute & Automate' for direct actions—with permissions tiered across four levels and visual indicators (blue ring for foreground, orange for background).", "body_md": "> in plain language\n\n## You talk. It acts.\n\nSimply state what you need in everyday language. Gotcha evaluates live device context and triggers the exact Android system operations required to complete your task.\n\n`find_contact`\n\n`send_sms`\n\n`get_storage_info`\n\n`set_wallpaper`\n\n`read_screen`\n\n`toggle_torch`\n\n`set_volume`\n\n`navigate_app`\n\n> two copilot modes\n\n## Monitor plans. Operator acts.\n\nGotcha runs as one of two copilot modes on your device. Switch modes instantly from the interface at any time.\n\n“Inspect & Plan”\n\nReads screen context, inspects device state, and analyzes information. It cannot send messages, alter settings, or delete files — ensuring zero-risk inspection.\n\n“Execute & Automate”\n\nPerforms direct actions across messages, calls, apps, media, and screen automation — fully bounded by explicit permissions you grant.\n\n> visual feedback & permissions\n\n## Clear permissions & visual mode indicators\n\nIn call mode, Gotcha gives clear visual ring indicators: a **Blue Ring** means it is reading the screen and performing foreground operations, while an **Orange Ring** signals background processing. Actions are protected across 4 permission levels so you are always in control.\n\n- Tier 0–1Everyday PermissionsBattery, storage status, phone dialer, opening apps\n- Tier 2Personal AccessCalls, SMS, calendar events, location, camera access\n- Tier 3Device AutomationScreen touch automation, notification reading, device admin\n- Tier 4Privileged AccessRoot shell actions (strictly fails closed on unrooted devices)\n\n[Read the full safety model →](/gotcha/docs/safety-permissions)\n\n> accessible over any app\n\n## The Assistive Ball\n\nA floating companion accessible from anywhere on your phone. Long-press it — or just say *“Hey Gotcha”* — to start a push-to-talk voice call, where Gotcha sees your screen and acts on your behalf.\n\n**Example:** Browsing Amazon and see a shirt you like on a model? Ask Gotcha to *“find similar shirts to the one worn here.”*Gotcha takes over the screen, searches the web, and presents matching products instantly.\n\n[How the Assistive Ball works →](/gotcha/docs/assistive-ball)\n\n## Get Gotcha\n\nGotcha is available now as an APK on **GitHub Releases**, with in-app updates from then on. Sign in with Samosa AI for free starter credits, or bring your own local or cloud LLM.", "url": "https://wpnews.pro/news/show-hn-gotcha-first-on-device-ai-copilot-for-android", "canonical_source": "https://samosa-ai.com/gotcha/", "published_at": "2026-08-10 02:34:00+00:00", "updated_at": "2026-08-10 03:05:41.377962+00:00", "lang": "en", "topics": ["ai-agents", "ai-products", "ai-tools", "artificial-intelligence"], "entities": ["Gotcha", "Samosa AI", "Android", "GitHub Releases"], "alternates": {"html": "https://wpnews.pro/news/show-hn-gotcha-first-on-device-ai-copilot-for-android", "markdown": "https://wpnews.pro/news/show-hn-gotcha-first-on-device-ai-copilot-for-android.md", "text": "https://wpnews.pro/news/show-hn-gotcha-first-on-device-ai-copilot-for-android.txt", "jsonld": "https://wpnews.pro/news/show-hn-gotcha-first-on-device-ai-copilot-for-android.jsonld"}}