FreeFlow: Open Source Voice Transcription That Actually Respects Your Privacy

A new open-source project called FreeFlow is challenging the subscription-based voice transcription market by offering a completely free alternative that runs entirely on your Mac.

The Problem With Paid Transcription Apps

Voice transcription tools like Wispr Flow, Superwhisper, and Monologue have gained popularity for their ability to convert speech to text using AI. However, they all share a common drawback: subscription fees around $10 per month. For a feature that relies on AI models that are either free or cost pennies to use, this pricing model has frustrated many users.

How FreeFlow Works

FreeFlow takes a different approach. The app is completely free and open source, with no subscription required. Here's how to get started:

1. Download the FreeFlow.dmg file from the GitHub repository
2. Get a free API key from Groq.com
3. Press and hold the Fn key to start recording
4. Your speech gets transcribed and pasted directly into the current text field

Context-Aware Transcription

One of FreeFlow's standout features is its context awareness. The app can read the names of people you're replying to in emails and ensure they're spelled correctly. It adapts to different applications - whether you're dictating into a terminal, writing code, or composing an email, FreeFlow adjusts its output accordingly.

This context-aware functionality mirrors the "Deep Context" feature found in Monologue, but without the subscription fee.

Privacy-First Design

Unlike SaaS alternatives that route your voice data through their servers, FreeFlow operates entirely locally. There's no FreeFlow server collecting or storing your data. The only information that leaves your computer are the API calls to Groq's transcription and LLM APIs, which are used for post-processing the transcription to adapt to context.

Technical Details

FreeFlow works on all Macs, including both Apple Silicon and Intel-based machines. The app is licensed under the MIT license, making it freely available for anyone to use, modify, and distribute.

The developer built FreeFlow over a weekend, demonstrating how accessible AI transcription technology has become. By leveraging existing free AI models and focusing on privacy, FreeFlow offers a compelling alternative to paid services.

For developers and privacy-conscious users looking for voice transcription without the recurring costs or data collection concerns, FreeFlow presents an attractive option that proves you don't need to pay monthly fees for basic AI transcription functionality.