To change an AI model, add it to Model order and make it main. Save backup-order edits separately; your mate tries backups when the main choice is unavailable.

Where to go

Open Mate Settings → choose the mate → AI Model. Connect the provider before choosing a new service.

Status	Next step
Running	Continue with model selection.
Working, but something needs attention	Follow What to do.
Cannot work	Check AI account problems.
Status unavailable right now	Wait or check Mate not responding.

Check again refreshes settings and health information without assigning AI work.

Change the main model

Under Model order, select Add backup.
Choose the provider and model, then Add.
Select Make main on that row.
Read and confirm. This saves immediately, including any other unsaved order edits.
Wait for saving to finish. Check the current model and the Main row.

The previous main moves to the first backup position. A higher-cost model may require another confirmation. A manual restart is normally unnecessary; check a new conversation for the updated model.

On older dashboards without that confirmation, select Save order afterward. If legacy settings or a custom endpoint prevent changes, follow the explanation or contact support.

Arrange backups

Use Up/Down, then Save order and confirm. With only one backup, reorder buttons are absent.

Remove edits the draft; save to apply it. Cancel discards unsaved edits. Removing a backup does not unlink the provider account.

Keep at least one usable backup alongside the main model. Each backup also needs valid credentials and allowance.

Check after changing

Read the status and recommendations. If auxiliary tasks still use the old provider, see Reasoning and speed. Follow any tool-routing recommendations as well.

Changing the main model attempts to turn fast mode off. If that could not be confirmed, check the setting and choose Off when available.

If saving fails

If the main changed but the order did not save, check both and save the order again. If a request failed or its result is unclear, refresh the current settings before retrying.

For persistent problems, contact support with the mate, model and notice. Keep keys private.

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