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OpenWispr

100% local open source AI speech-to-text model

2025-07-30

Product Introduction

  1. OpenWispr is an open-source voice-to-text tool that converts spoken words into formatted text entirely through local processing or user-managed API keys. It operates 3-5x faster than manual typing and integrates seamlessly with any application, prioritizing privacy and user control.
  2. The core value lies in enabling efficient, secure, and customizable voice-based text generation for tasks like LLM prompting, email drafting, and content creation, while eliminating reliance on cloud-based services or third-party data handling.

Main Features

  1. OpenWispr processes audio locally using on-device AI models or allows users to integrate their own OpenAI API keys, ensuring complete data privacy and cost control.
  2. The tool supports customizable hotkeys for instant activation, real-time transcription with minimal latency, and three model tiers (tiny, base, large) optimized for speed, accuracy, or critical use cases.
  3. As fully open-source software, it enables developers to modify the system prompt, self-host the application, and contribute to its development via GitHub, with pre-built binaries available for non-technical users.

Problems Solved

  1. It addresses the inefficiency of manual typing by providing speech-to-text conversion that is 3x faster, particularly beneficial for lengthy LLM prompts, technical documentation, and real-time communication.
  2. The product serves privacy-conscious users, developers, and professionals requiring reliable dictation tools without cloud dependencies, including writers, coders, and enterprise teams.
  3. Typical scenarios include dictating code comments without interrupting workflow, converting brainstorming sessions into structured text, and drafting emails or messages across macOS applications.

Unique Advantages

  1. Unlike cloud-based alternatives, OpenWispr guarantees zero data leakage by default through optional local processing and grants full transparency via its open-source codebase.
  2. Unique innovations include editable system prompts for custom formatting rules, hybrid model selection for balancing speed/accuracy, and cross-application compatibility without requiring screen permissions.
  3. Competitive strengths include GitHub-driven community development, enterprise-ready features like SSO and managed API credits, and a tiered pricing model that accommodates both self-hosted and managed deployments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. How private is local processing? OpenWispr's local mode processes audio entirely on your device using on-device AI models, ensuring no voice data is transmitted externally or stored.
  2. Which model should I choose? The base model offers optimal speed/accuracy balance, while tiny prioritizes speed for quick notes and large maximizes accuracy for critical transcriptions.
  3. Can I use my own OpenAI API key? Yes, users can input personal API keys to maintain direct control over costs and data flow while using cloud-based transcription.
  4. What distinguishes pricing tiers? The free tier requires self-hosting via GitHub, Lazy Edition ($8/month) provides pre-built apps with auto-updates, and Enterprise adds team features like SSO and cloud sync.
  5. Does it work on Windows/Linux? Currently, pre-built binaries are macOS-only, but the open-source codebase supports cross-platform compilation for technical users.

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