Enhance Open WebUI Usability With Raw Document Upload Feature Request

Hey everyone! Let's dive into a feature request that could significantly boost the versatility of Open WebUI. We're talking about adding a raw document upload option. This enhancement would allow users to access uploaded files in their original format, bypassing the usual RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation) processing. Trust me, this is a game-changer for those wanting to leverage other APIs and tools!

Problem Description

Currently, when you upload a PDF or CSV file into Open WebUI, it's primarily processed for RAG. That's cool and all, but what if you want to use the raw file for something else? For example, think about sending a raw PDF to Claude API or Gemini for their vision capabilities, or maybe you'd like to work with a CSV file in Jupyter, or even apply your own custom RAG/Doc processing magic. Right now, that's a bit of a hassle because you can't directly access the raw file.

This limitation means you're stuck within the confines of Open WebUI's default processing. It's like having a Swiss Army knife but only being allowed to use the screwdriver. You're missing out on a whole bunch of other cool tools!

To really nail this down, imagine you're a researcher and you've got a bunch of PDFs filled with visual data. You want to use a specialized API like Gemini to analyze these visuals. Without the raw upload feature, you'd have to jump through hoops to get your files into the right format and place. It's a time-consuming detour that we could easily avoid.

Or picture this: you're a data analyst and you've uploaded a CSV file. You're itching to run some custom scripts in Jupyter, but you can't get your hands on the original file. Frustrating, right? This feature request is all about smoothing out these bumps and giving you the flexibility you deserve.

Desired Solution

The solution is pretty straightforward: let's add a "raw upload" button alongside the current file upload option. This new button would allow users to upload files without triggering the RAG processing. Basically, it keeps the document in its pristine, original form, ready for whatever you want to throw at it. Think of it as a direct pipeline to your files, no detours, no conversions.

This addition is more than just a convenience; it's about unlocking a world of possibilities. By giving users access to the raw files, we're empowering them to integrate Open WebUI into a wider range of workflows. It opens the door for seamless interaction with other powerful tools and APIs, making Open WebUI a true powerhouse for document processing and analysis.

To make this even clearer, envision the user interface. You've got your regular "Upload" button that kicks off the RAG process. Next to it, there's a shiny new button labeled "Raw Upload." Click that, and boom, your file is uploaded without any processing. It's a simple, intuitive solution that can make a huge difference in usability.

Why This Matters

This isn't just a minor tweak; it's a fundamental enhancement that addresses a core need for many users. It's about giving you the freedom to use your documents the way you want. By bypassing the automatic RAG processing, we're handing you the keys to your data, allowing for maximum flexibility and control.

Let's talk specifics. Imagine you're working on a project that requires a specific type of document processing that Open WebUI doesn't natively support. With raw upload, you can simply upload the file and use an external tool or API to handle the processing. No more workarounds, no more limitations. It's a direct path to getting the job done.

Benefits Galore

• Flexibility: Use your files with any tool or API.
• Efficiency: Skip unnecessary processing steps.
• Customization: Apply your own RAG or document processing techniques.
• Integration: Seamlessly connect Open WebUI with other services like Claude, Gemini, and Jupyter.

Alternatives Considered

As it stands, there aren't really any viable alternatives within Open WebUI to achieve this functionality. The current upload process is geared towards RAG, leaving users who need raw file access out in the cold. That's why this feature request is so crucial. It fills a gap that currently limits the platform's potential.

We could try to work around this limitation by downloading the processed files and then re-uploading them to other services, but that's just adding extra steps and complexity. It's like trying to assemble a puzzle with gloves on – possible, but not exactly efficient.

Additional Context

There's no additional context provided, but the need is pretty clear. This feature is about expanding the horizons of Open WebUI and making it an even more powerful tool for everyone. It's about listening to the users and giving them the capabilities they need to thrive.

By implementing the raw upload feature, we're not just adding a button; we're opening up a world of possibilities. It's a simple change that can have a profound impact on how users interact with Open WebUI, making it a more versatile and indispensable tool.

So, what do you guys think? Are you as excited about the potential of raw document uploads as I am? Let's make this happen and take Open WebUI to the next level!