Speech To Markdown is a free application designed for macOS and iOS that transforms spoken words into structured markdown text. It leverages local Large Language Models (LLMs) to process speech, making it a powerful tool for note-taking and content creation directly on your device. The app is ideal for individuals who prefer dictation over typing and require their data to remain private and secure.
The core problem this application addresses is the need for a private, efficient way to capture thoughts and ideas as they arise, without relying on cloud services. In an era where data privacy is paramount, Speech To Markdown offers a solution that keeps all processing and data on the user's local machine, eliminating concerns about sensitive information being transmitted or stored externally.
A key feature is the global dictation capability, accessible via a convenient hotkey (⌘⌥]). This allows users to dictate notes into any text field on their Mac, regardless of the application they are using. This seamless integration ensures that ideas can be captured the moment they strike, without interrupting workflow. The app also incorporates a live markdown editor, providing real-time feedback and adjustments as the user speaks.
Furthermore, Speech To Markdown utilizes a local LLM for on-the-fly fixes. This means that grammar, typos, and even structural elements of the markdown can be automatically corrected and refined as you dictate. This intelligent editing process helps to produce clean, well-formatted output without requiring manual post-dictation editing, saving users significant time and effort.
The application's architecture relies on local processing, specifically using Local Whisper for speech-to-text (STT) and a local LLM for text processing and markdown conversion. This entirely on-device approach is a significant differentiator, ensuring that no data leaves the user's Mac or iOS device. This is particularly beneficial for sensitive notes or proprietary information.
Speech To Markdown operates by capturing audio input, transcribing it using a local speech-to-text engine, and then processing the transcribed text with a local LLM. This LLM is responsible for structuring the text into markdown, inferring headings, lists, and other markdown elements based on the spoken content. The live editor provides a visual representation of this conversion in real-time.
The primary benefit for users is enhanced productivity and privacy. By enabling quick dictation and automated structuring, the app accelerates the note-taking process. The local-only nature of the processing guarantees that personal thoughts and sensitive information remain confidential, offering peace of mind to users concerned about data security.
Specific use cases include capturing meeting notes, drafting documents, brainstorming ideas, and creating structured outlines or specifications. For instance, a user could dictate a product idea, and the app would automatically convert it into a markdown document with headings for features, benefits, and target audience. Another use case is quickly jotting down action items during a call, which are then immediately formatted as a markdown list.
Speech To Markdown is a free application available for macOS and iOS. It is built with local LLMs and Whisper for its core functionality. While specific pricing tiers or integrations are not detailed, its free nature and focus on local processing are highlighted as key aspects. The app is developed by Igor Steblii.
In summary, Speech To Markdown offers a secure and efficient method for converting spoken words into structured markdown notes, empowering users to capture ideas effortlessly while maintaining complete control over their data through local AI processing.