Choose A Transcription Provider
Open Settings → Audio to choose speech-to-text. This setting is separate from the AI provider that answers questions.
Compare Options
Section titled “Compare Options”| Provider | Where speech is transcribed | Setup |
|---|---|---|
| Local (NVIDIA Parakeet) | On your computer | Local model setup; no API key. |
| On-device (Apple Speech) | On a compatible Mac | macOS 26+, supported language and installed Apple language asset; no API key. |
| Cloud (Deepgram) | Deepgram | Your Deepgram API key and network access. |
Local Parakeet
Section titled “Local Parakeet”Allow the local model download and preparation to finish. Parakeet uses local storage and compute. Check the ready status before starting an important session.
Apple Speech
Section titled “Apple Speech”Choose Apple Speech, select a language, and use Check or Install when the language asset needs attention. Wait until the asset is installed. Availability depends on the system and language; an unsupported language or unavailable provider needs a different selection.
The interface language in Settings → Interface does not select the Apple Speech transcription language.
Deepgram
Section titled “Deepgram”Enter and validate your Deepgram API key in onboarding or Audio settings. Deepgram sends audio to its cloud service and uses your Deepgram account’s billing and limits.
Test Both Audio Sources
Section titled “Test Both Audio Sources”Grant macOS permissions, choose the microphone, and test microphone speech and computer audio separately. Apply provider/device changes before a new session; restart when requested.
Local transcription keeps speech-to-text local, but cloud AI can still receive transcript text. Review data handling.