# Orbiter Dev Public Setup Guide

Last updated: June 19, 2026

Public docs version: 2026.06.19.2

Minimum MCP package for documented hook CLIs: `@orbiterdev/mcp-server@0.1.12`.

Orbiter Dev adds mobile approval control, risk policy, Face ID gates, and an approval record around AI coding agents. Use this guide when helping someone install the app, pair an IDE or agent host, configure MCP, or troubleshoot public setup issues.

## Public Routes

- Setup docs: https://orbiterdev.ai/setup
- Download and QR page: https://orbiterdev.ai/download
- App Store listing: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/orbiter-dev/id6761080153
- Long-form setup guide: https://orbiterdev.ai/docs
- AI Markdown export: https://orbiterdev.ai/ai-docs/orbiter-dev-public-setup.md
- Support and enquiries: https://orbiterdev.ai/support
- Privacy policy: https://orbiterdev.ai/legal/privacy
- Terms of service: https://orbiterdev.ai/legal/terms

## Quick Start

1. Install Orbiter Dev from the App Store.
2. Open Orbiter Dev on iPhone or iPad and sign in.
3. Open Settings -> Pair IDE.
4. Choose the setup path for the user's coding agent: Mobile App, Codex, Claude Code, Antigravity, Gemini CLI, Cursor, Windsurf, or MCP-compatible host.
5. Add Orbiter MCP, hooks, or the extension where supported.
6. Pair the agent with the mobile app.
7. Send one low-risk test approval before using the flow for critical work.

## Integration Availability

| Provider | Public setup path | Check |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Codex | Merge-aware setup, MCP tools, supported hooks, and mobile approval routing. | `npx -y @orbiterdev/mcp-server@0.1.12 codex doctor --check-backend` |
| Antigravity | Extension, MCP, workspace hooks, and command-policy guidance per workspace or worktree. | `npx -y @orbiterdev/mcp-server@0.1.12 antigravity doctor --workspace <workspace> --check-backend` |
| Claude Code | MCP setup plus permission routing for shell decisions through `permission-check`. | Verify MCP config and send one controlled permission request. |
| Gemini CLI | Beta integration with guarded setup, pairing, and doctor checks. Start with low-risk approvals before critical workflows. | `npx -y @orbiterdev/mcp-server@0.1.12 gemini doctor --check-backend` |

## Windows Open PowerShell Buttons

On Windows desktop browsers, the setup page can show Open PowerShell buttons for supported command steps. The first use asks the user to run a one-time setup command that registers Orbiter's local setup launcher for the current Windows user. After enablement, the buttons open a local PowerShell window for fixed Orbiter setup actions such as Codex setup, Codex doctor, Antigravity setup, Gemini CLI setup, and the generic MCP package command.

The launcher uses an `orbiterdev-setup://` action URL and maps that action to a known Orbiter command. It does not accept arbitrary command text from the browser URL. Users can still copy the visible command block and run it manually at any time.

## Mobile App

Install Orbiter Dev from the App Store:

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/orbiter-dev/id6761080153

Pairing flow:

1. Open Orbiter Dev on iPhone or iPad.
2. Sign in with the same GitHub or Google account used for development.
3. Open Settings -> Pair IDE.
4. Generate a pairing code.
5. Enter the code when the IDE or agent host asks for Orbiter authentication.

Keep iOS notifications enabled so approval requests arrive promptly.

Approval cards show the proposed action, command or file context, risk level, available diff summary, and agent notes. Users approve or reject from the app.

## Codex

Use the merge-aware Codex setup command:

```bash
npx -y @orbiterdev/mcp-server@0.1.12 codex setup --adapter http --server-url https://api.orbiterdev.ai --hook-profile full --approval-timeout 300
```

This adds Orbiter MCP and supported hooks while preserving unrelated Codex config.

Run doctor after setup or when approvals stop arriving:

```bash
npx -y @orbiterdev/mcp-server@0.1.12 codex doctor --check-backend
```

Manual MCP fallback:

```json
{
  "mcpServers": {
    "orbiter-dev": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["-y", "@orbiterdev/mcp-server@0.1.12"],
      "env": {
        "ORBITER_SERVER_URL": "https://api.orbiterdev.ai"
      }
    }
  }
}
```

## Claude Code

Add Orbiter as a Claude Code MCP server:

```json
{
  "mcpServers": {
    "orbiter-dev": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["-y", "@orbiterdev/mcp-server@0.1.12"],
      "env": {
        "ORBITER_SERVER_URL": "https://api.orbiterdev.ai"
      }
    }
  }
}
```

Restart or reload Claude Code after changing MCP settings.

Permission hook example:

```json
{
  "hooks": {
    "PermissionRequest": [
      {
        "matcher": "Bash",
        "hooks": [
          {
            "type": "command",
            "command": "npx -y @orbiterdev/mcp-server@0.1.12 permission-check"
          }
        ]
      }
    ]
  }
}
```

Permission command:

```bash
npx -y @orbiterdev/mcp-server@0.1.12 permission-check
```

Advanced Claude Code bridge hooks cover PermissionRequest, PreToolUse, PostToolUse, Notification, TaskCompleted, SessionStart, and SessionEnd. Use the public MCP and `permission-check` path first unless you are following the advanced bridge setup guide.

## Antigravity

Antigravity can use Orbiter through the extension, MCP, and hooks.

Extension channels:

- VS Code Marketplace: https://marketplace.visualstudio.com/items?itemName=orbiterdev.orbiter-dev
- OpenVSX: https://open-vsx.org/extension/orbiterdev/orbiter-dev

Setup command:

```bash
npx -y @orbiterdev/mcp-server@0.1.12 antigravity setup --adapter http --server-url https://api.orbiterdev.ai --profile blocking --fallback deny --approval-timeout 300 --configure-native-command-policy
```

Run setup from the target Antigravity workspace, or add `--workspace <workspace>`. Antigravity hook config is project/worktree scoped.

Doctor command:

```bash
npx -y @orbiterdev/mcp-server@0.1.12 antigravity doctor --check-backend
```

Use doctor to check hook config, backend mode, and whether workspace command policy allows Orbiter-approved actions to continue.

## Gemini CLI

Gemini CLI support is a beta integration for users who want Orbiter approval checks around Gemini CLI workspaces. Start with low-risk approvals, run doctor after setup changes, and move critical workflows to Orbiter once your workspace path is verified.

Setup command:

```bash
npx -y @orbiterdev/mcp-server@0.1.12 gemini setup --adapter http --server-url https://api.orbiterdev.ai --profile guarded
```

Doctor command:

```bash
npx -y @orbiterdev/mcp-server@0.1.12 gemini doctor --check-backend
```

## Cursor

Use Cursor MCP settings to add Orbiter as a server.

General steps:

1. Open Cursor Settings.
2. Find MCP servers.
3. Add a server named `orbiter-dev`.
4. Use `npx` as the command and `@orbiterdev/mcp-server@0.1.12` as the package.
5. Restart or reload the active session.
6. Pair with Orbiter Dev from the mobile app.

Use the manual MCP JSON from the Codex section if Cursor accepts raw config.

## Windsurf

Use Windsurf MCP settings to add Orbiter as a server.

General steps:

1. Open Windsurf settings.
2. Find MCP servers or custom tools.
3. Add a server named `orbiter-dev`.
4. Use `npx -y @orbiterdev/mcp-server@0.1.12`.
5. Restart or reload the active session.
6. Pair with Orbiter Dev from the mobile app.

Use the manual MCP JSON from the Codex section if Windsurf accepts raw config.

## MCP-Compatible Hosts

Use this path for any IDE, CLI, or agent host that can launch a local MCP server command.

Prerequisites:

- Node.js 18 or newer.
- Orbiter Dev installed on iPhone or iPad.
- A host that supports custom MCP servers.

Generic package command:

```bash
npx -y @orbiterdev/mcp-server@0.1.12
```

The public MCP package supports pairing, token verification, approval requests, heartbeats, checkpoints, notifications, tool outcomes, usage reports, approved memory, stop requests, and project guidance.

## Pricing

Orbiter Dev is free to download.

Free tier:

- 50 routed approvals per week.
- Mobile review from iPhone and iPad.
- Basic approval history.
- MCP pairing for supported agent hosts.

Pro adds:

- Unlimited approval events.
- Face ID gates for critical actions.
- Risk rules and policy presets.
- Richer decision history across devices.

Default web prices are shown in US dollars. Apple confirms the final local storefront price, tax, and renewal terms before purchase.

## Troubleshooting

If a pairing code expires, generate a new code from Settings -> Pair IDE in the iOS app.

If notifications do not arrive:

1. Confirm iOS notifications are enabled for Orbiter Dev.
2. Confirm the mobile app is logged in.
3. Confirm the IDE or MCP server is paired.
4. Try once without a strict VPN or corporate proxy.

If MCP tools do not appear:

1. Confirm the MCP settings file or host MCP settings panel includes Orbiter.
2. Check that JSON syntax is valid if editing a file directly.
3. Restart or reload the agent host.
4. Run the relevant doctor command where available.

If iOS shows no approval requests:

1. Run the relevant provider doctor command with `--check-backend`.
2. Confirm the setup uses `https://api.orbiterdev.ai`.
3. Run the provider doctor command with `--check-backend`.
4. Confirm the IDE or MCP profile is paired with the same account as the iOS app.
5. Foreground Orbiter Dev and pull to refresh the approval list.
6. Remember that APNs affects push alerts; a healthy REST refresh should still show pending backend approvals.

If you see `401 Unauthorized`, sign in again from the extension or repeat the MCP pairing flow.

## Support And Enquiries

Use https://orbiterdev.ai/support or email support@orbiterdev.ai.

Include:

- Device type.
- iOS version.
- IDE or agent host.
- Approximate time of the issue.
- A safe screenshot if useful.

Do not send API keys, auth tokens, private source code, payment details, or private account credentials in support requests.

## Account And Billing

Orbiter Dev Pro is available through Apple In-App Purchase in the iOS app. Use Settings -> Restore Purchases after reinstalling the app or switching devices.

To delete account data, open Orbiter Dev iOS -> Settings -> Account Controls -> Delete Account, or contact support if you cannot access the app.

## FAQ And Troubleshooting

### My extension shows '[gRPC] TLS disconnect' warnings

This can appear when no AI agent session is active. The extension checks for an available local agent-side connection and reconnects when a session is available. Update to the latest Orbiter Dev extension if repeated idle warnings are noisy.

### Walkthrough doesn't open on install

The walkthrough only shows once per extension version. To re-open it, run Ctrl+Shift+P and choose 'Orbiter: Open Onboarding Guide'.

### Extension buttons in walkthrough don't work

Make sure you're running the latest Orbiter Dev extension from VS Code Marketplace or OpenVSX, then re-open the walkthrough from the command palette.

### Push notifications aren't arriving

Check that iOS notifications are enabled for Orbiter Dev, that you are signed in, and that the IDE or MCP server is paired. If you use a corporate proxy or VPN, try once without it because strict network filters can interrupt approval delivery.

### Pairing code expired

Pairing codes expire after a short window. Open Orbiter Dev on iPhone or iPad, go to Settings -> Pair IDE, generate a new code, and retry from your IDE or agent host.

### WebSocket keeps disconnecting

Long-lived approval connections can be interrupted by corporate proxies, VPNs, captive portals, or unstable Wi-Fi. The extension and app retry automatically; if approvals do not resume, reconnect on a stable network and contact support with the approximate time.

### MCP tools not showing in Claude Code

Check that your MCP settings file exists, that the JSON syntax is valid, and that the agent host was restarted after editing settings. Run 'npx @orbiterdev/mcp-server --version' to confirm the package can install.

### iOS shows no approval requests

First run the provider doctor command with --check-backend. Then confirm the setup uses https://api.orbiterdev.ai, the IDE or MCP profile is paired with the same account as the iOS app, and the app refreshes while foregrounded. Push notifications affect alerts; a healthy foreground refresh should still show pending approvals.

### MCP server returns 401

Your credential may be expired or missing. Sign in again from the extension or repeat the MCP pairing flow from Orbiter Dev on iOS.

### Approval requests are delayed

The most common causes are network instability, push notification settings, or an IDE/agent host that is no longer paired. Check the iOS notification setting, confirm the pair status, and keep the host machine online while the agent is working.

### Can I use both Extension and MCP?

Yes. Use both when your workflow supports both paths. The extension adds IDE-side capture and policy controls; the MCP server adds agent tools such as approval requests, heartbeats, checkpoints, notifications, usage reports, and session memory.

### Is my code sent to Orbiter servers?

Orbiter routes approval metadata, command or file context, risk levels, timestamps, decisions, and user-requested review context so the mobile app can show what needs approval. Do not send private source code or secrets in support requests.

### How do I uninstall?

Extension: use the editor's extension uninstall command. MCP: remove the orbiter-dev entry from your MCP settings file. Mobile: delete the app. To remove account data, open Orbiter Dev iOS -> Settings -> Account Controls -> Delete Account, or email support@orbiterdev.ai.

### The app says too many requests or too many connections

Wait about a minute and retry. If approvals do not resume, send support your device type, iOS version, approximate timestamp, and a safe screenshot with no private tokens or secrets.

### I signed in but do not see approval events

Use the connection checklist first: provider doctor with backend check, setup pointing at https://api.orbiterdev.ai, and the same paired account on desktop and iOS. Notifications can be interrupted while foreground refresh still works, so check account alignment before investigating push delivery.

### How do subscriptions work?

Orbiter Dev offers Pro Monthly and Pro Annual through Apple In-App Purchase. Use Settings -> Restore Purchases after reinstalling or switching devices. Billing, cancellation, and renewal are handled by Apple.

### How do I contact support?

Use the support form at /support or email support@orbiterdev.ai. Include device type, iOS version, IDE or agent host, safe screenshots, and the approximate time of the issue. Do not send API keys, auth tokens, private code, or payment details.

### What IDEs and agents are supported?

Orbiter provides documented setup paths for Codex, Claude Code, Antigravity, Gemini CLI, Cursor, Windsurf, and generic MCP-compatible hosts. Gemini CLI is a beta integration; start with low-risk approvals and run doctor after setup changes.

### What's the free tier limit?

Free includes 50 approvals per week, 1 workspace, and 7-day history. Pro Monthly and Pro Annual are available through Apple In-App Purchase in the iOS app.
