# Speakmac FAQ

Last updated: 2026-02-09

## What is Speakmac?
A macOS menu bar app for system-wide dictation (voice typing). Hold a hotkey, speak, release, and it types at your cursor.

## Does it work offline?
Yes, after a one-time model download. The dictation engine runs locally on your Mac.

## Does my audio leave my Mac?
In on-device mode, no. Audio is processed locally.

If you enable a third-party transcription provider that requires an API key, your audio is sent to that provider.

## Do I need an account?
No account required for dictation.

## Which Macs are supported?
Apple Silicon (M-series) Macs on macOS 14+.

## What permissions does it need?
- Microphone: to record your voice.
- Accessibility: to insert text into other apps.

## Where is the app? I can't find it in the Dock.
Speakmac lives in your menu bar (top-right of the screen). Look for the waveform icon.

## How do I start dictating?
1. Click where you want text (make sure there is a blinking cursor).
2. Hold your Speakmac hotkey.
3. Speak.
4. Release the hotkey to insert text.

## Does it work in VS Code, Slack, Notion, Gmail, etc?
Yes. If an app accepts typing into a normal text field, Speakmac can type there.

## How big is the model download?
About ~600 MB, downloaded once on first setup.

## Does Speakmac save my transcriptions or recordings?
Speakmac can keep a local transcription history on your Mac. You can also enable a "do not save" / privacy mode so recordings are deleted immediately and nothing is kept in history.

## How do I delete my data?
You can delete individual items (or all history) inside the app. Deleting a transcription also removes its associated local audio file.

## How much does it cost? Is it a subscription?
Speakmac is a one-time purchase (no subscription). Some plans include an optional paid renewal for updates after the first year.

For current pricing, use the canonical buy page: https://www.speakmac.app/buy

## Do you offer refunds or invoices?
There is a 14-day refund window. Your Lemon Squeezy receipt email serves as an invoice.

## Where should I send support questions?
Email support@speakmac.app.