Here you most likely will find answers to all your questions about FrameRef. But if you don’t, try searching for your topic up in the top right corner. And if you still don’t have an answer, you can easily reach us in our Discord server: https://frameref.app/discord Or by emailing us at frameref@polygonflow.io
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Try the search in the top right corner, or reach us on Discord or by email at frameref@polygonflow.io.
Basics
Section titled “Basics”Where can I get FrameRef?
You can download FrameRef with the links below:
Windows: https://frameref.app/download-latest
What type of projects can FrameRef be used for?
FrameRef is built for any visual reference workflow, from concept art and 3D modeling to architecture, fashion design, or photography moodboards.
If you use images to plan, brainstorm, or communicate ideas, FrameRef fits right in.
Where do I report feature requests or bugs?
You can send feedback directly in our Discord server or by emailing us at frameref@polygonflow.io.
We actively review community input to guide updates and improvements.
What operating system is supported for FrameRef?
Right now, FrameRef works on Windows and MacOS. Linux support can be fixed if we see the demand for it.
Does FrameRef require an internet connection?
Yes and no. You need an internet connection to activate your license, and then, once every 24 hours, a license check is also performed, which needs an internet connection.
But in between, no, you don’t need internet to use FrameRef.
How is FrameRef different from PureRef and other reference boards?
FrameRef does everything you expect from traditional reference boards, and goes much further. In addition to images and GIFs, it supports videos and PDFs, and even lets you drag and drop video links from platforms like YouTube, X, and Twitch to automatically download them into your board.
It’s 2026 and a reference board is more complex than just a grid of images & GIFs. FrameRef is the most forward thinking app for artists in that regard. Give it a spin, you’re gonna love it!
Workflow
Section titled “Workflow”How do I share my reference boards?
Go to Items→ Export Selection as Image to save your current selection as an image.
You can also share your editable project files by simply sending the project folder.
Can I import images from web browsers or other apps?
Yes! Simply drag and drop images directly from your browser, file explorer, or design tools.
FrameRef also supports pasting (Ctrl + V) copied images and videos. And also image and video URLs.
How do I organize images efficiently?
Use Groups and the Arrange or Align commands to cluster related references.
You can also color-code groups and label groups or individual objects with the tag system for quick navigation through the search bar.
Can I use FrameRef for storyboard sequences or film shots?
Absolutely. Many artists use FrameRef for pre-production workflows like shot breakdowns, camera studies, or sequential storytelling.
You can arrange frames in rows and use labels to mark scenes or takes.
Does FrameRef support videos and GIFs?
Yes, FrameRef supports video and GIFs playback and scrubbing within your board.
Just drag and drop a video file, and you can play, pause, or navigate frames directly inside the app.
And videos can even be trimmed.
Does FrameRef support graphics and display tablets?
Yes, FrameRef supports graphics and display tablets! These four preferences are recommended to adjust to get an optimal experience with a tablet.
- Alternate Pan Shortcut
- Alternate Zoom Shortcut
- Context Menu Position
- Double Click Action
Licensing & Updates
Section titled “Licensing & Updates”Is FrameRef a subscription?
No. FrameRef is a one-time purchase with free lifetime updates.
Can I use my license on multiple devices?
With our base license, Professional, yes. You can activate your license on up to two personal devices (for example, your desktop and laptop).
Our Business license only allows one PC per license key.
If you want to change computers, you can deactivate the license from one PC, from the help menu in FrameRef.
How do I update FrameRef to the latest version?
When an update is available, FrameRef will notify you automatically.
You can also download the newest installer anytime from our download links Mac Download
And you can check for updates from the Help menu in FrameRef.
Do I need internet access to activate my license?
Yes, activation requires a quick online check.
After that, FrameRef can be used completely offline until the next periodic license check (every 24 hours).
How to deactivate/activate my license?
Once in FrameRef, in the Help menu, you will see the option to activate or deactivate your license.
If you want to move your license to another PC, you first need to deactivate the license from the previous PC.
Technical & Performance
Section titled “Technical & Performance”What are the system requirements for FrameRef?
FrameRef runs smoothly on most modern computers.
Minimum recommended specs:
- CPU: Quad-core processor
- RAM: 8 GB (16 GB recommended for very large boards)
- GPU: Dedicated graphics card with 2 GB VRAM
- Storage: SSD recommended
Does FrameRef use my GPU?
Yes. FrameRef uses GPU acceleration to render and move images efficiently, providing a fluid experience even with large boards.
Why does FrameRef slow down with many images?
Large boards with thousands of high-resolution images can consume significant memory.
Try reducing image resolution or splitting projects into smaller boards.
Where are my board files saved?
By default, FrameRef saves your board in your Username→ Polygonflow→ FrameRef folder.
The board files are simply your images + one single JSON file. No fancy custom format.
Can I move my FrameRef projects between computers?
Yes, just copy and paste your board folder
You can open them on another device running FrameRef without losing any data.
How can I back up my boards automatically?
Right now, we have an option for auto-save, but we are planning on including timestamped backups in the future.
Troubleshooting
Section titled “Troubleshooting”FrameRef won’t start or crashes on launch
Ensure your graphics drivers are up to date and that your system meets the minimum requirements.
If the issue persists, restart your computer and reinstall the latest version: FrameRef Download.
How can I reset FrameRef settings?
Go to Preferences, and in the bottom left corner, you will see the option “Reset to defaults”.
Or you can right-click on the preference categories and reset them individually.
Your project files and saved boards will remain safe.
My license isn’t activating
Double-check that your internet connection is active and your license key is entered exactly as provided.
If it still fails, contact frameref@polygonflow.io for assistance and provide the potential error message.
Community & Support
Section titled “Community & Support”How can I get help from other users?
Join our growing Discord community!
You’ll find active discussions, tips, and early previews of upcoming features.
Can I suggest new features?
Absolutely, we rely on community feedback.
Drop suggestions in the #feature-requests channel on Discord or email them to frameref@polygonflow.io.
How do I stay updated on new releases?
We post every release on our website and Discord.
You can also subscribe to our newsletter for early access to beta builds and announcements.
Can I use FrameRef commercially?
Yes, FrameRef is fully licensed for both personal and commercial projects.