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JustScribe

On-device instant voice transcription

2026-02-17

Product Introduction

  1. Definition: JustScribe is a macOS-native live transcription application leveraging on-device AI for real-time speech-to-text conversion. It operates entirely offline, using local machine learning models (Parakeet and Whisper) to transcribe audio without cloud dependency.
  2. Core Value Proposition: It delivers instant, private transcription for macOS users who prioritize data sovereignty, eliminating cloud processing and ensuring zero audio data leaves the device.

Main Features

  1. Real-time Transcription: Processes speech locally via Parakeet (optimized for English) or Whisper (50+ languages) models, rendering text with <1s latency. Works offline with microphone, system audio, or app-specific input.
  2. Privacy Architecture: All audio processing occurs on-device; no data uploads, cloud storage, or third-party access. Built on Apple’s Core ML framework for end-to-end encryption.
  3. Apple Silicon Optimization: Native M-series chip support maximizes speed and minimizes battery drain, achieving 4x faster output than manual typing.
  4. Multi-Source Audio Capture: Simultaneously transcribes microphone input, system audio (e.g., Zoom calls), or targeted apps, ideal for hybrid workflows.
  5. Export Flexibility: Directly copy text, export to files, or integrate with other apps via macOS share extensions.

Problems Solved

  1. Pain Point: Cloud-based transcription services compromise privacy by storing sensitive audio (e.g., meetings, confidential discussions). JustScribe prevents data leaks via local-only processing.
  2. Target Audience:
    • Professionals: Journalists, lawyers, and healthcare workers handling confidential data.
    • Content Creators: Podcasters, video editors needing subtitles without cloud delays.
    • Remote Teams: Hybrid workers transcribing meetings (Zoom/Teams) in real time.
    • AI Power Users: Developers dictating complex prompts for ChatGPT/Claude faster.
  3. Use Cases:
    • Real-time meeting notes with speaker identification.
    • Drafting emails/documents via voice at 160 WPM.
    • Generating video subtitles or podcast transcripts offline.

Unique Advantages

  1. Differentiation: Unlike cloud tools (Otter.ai, Google Speech-to-Text), JustScribe requires no internet, subscriptions, or data-sharing. Competitors process audio remotely; JustScribe uses 100% on-device ML.
  2. Key Innovation: Dual-model AI engine (Parakeet for speed, Whisper for multilingual accuracy) deployed locally via WhisperKit and Swift Transformers, reducing latency to under 1 second.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. Does JustScribe work without an internet connection?
    Yes, JustScribe’s offline transcription uses on-device AI models (Parakeet/Whisper), requiring zero internet access or cloud servers.
  2. How does JustScribe ensure data privacy?
    Audio never leaves your Mac; all processing occurs locally with no data collection, telemetry, or accounts—aligning with GDPR/enterprise compliance.
  3. Which languages does JustScribe support?
    Parakeet handles English, while Whisper supports 50+ languages including Spanish, French, German, and Mandarin.
  4. Is JustScribe compatible with Intel-based Macs?
    Yes, but Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3) optimization delivers 4x faster performance and lower battery usage.
  5. Can I transcribe system audio from apps like Zoom?
    Absolutely. JustScribe captures system-wide audio, specific apps, or microphone input simultaneously for hybrid meeting transcription.

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