Core Concepts

Devices & Extension

Reduck runs automations in a real Chrome browser on your machine. The Reduck extension is the bridge between the runner and your browser.

Install the extension

  1. Download the extension from your Reduck dashboard (or get the .zip from the team)
  2. Go to chrome://extensions in Chrome
  3. Enable Developer mode (top-right toggle)
  4. Click Load unpacked and select the unzipped extension folder

Once installed, you’ll see the Reduck icon in your toolbar.

Pair your device

When the extension starts, it registers itself as a device. Run reduck devices to list your paired browsers and select one — this selection is saved for future runs.

How push notifications work

When you send a query via the CLI or SDK:

  1. The runner receives your prompt and creates a Run
  2. It sends a web push notification to the extension on the target device
  3. The extension wakes up, opens the automation window, and starts executing
  4. Events stream back to your terminal or code

The extension doesn’t need to be actively running in the foreground — it just needs to be installed and paired.

Multi-device

You can have the extension installed on multiple machines (e.g., your laptop + a dedicated automation server). Each registers as a separate device. Use reduck devices to switch between them, or pass --device-id to target a specific one.

Disconnect

From the extension side panel, click Disconnect to unpair the device. The runner will no longer be able to wake this browser.