Completely free and open-source (MIT license) speech-to-text app with local AI inference. No usage limits.
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Offline, on-device speech-to-text with auto meeting transcriptions.
Real-time dictation and automatic meeting transcription on macOS.
Muesli is a powerful, completely free Open Source speech-to-text application designed for macOS users who value privacy and offline functionality. Unlike many dictation tools that rely on cloud-based processing, Muesli leverages on-device local AI inference to transcribe speech directly on your machine, ensuring your data never leaves your computer. This local-first approach not only enhances security but also eliminates latency, making it ideal for real-time dictation and automatic meeting transcriptions. As a Muesli free Open Source project, it is released under the permissive MIT license, meaning there are no usage limits, no subscription fees, and no credit card required. You can download the app directly from GitHub or install it effortlessly via Homebrew with a single command. The tool integrates seamlessly with your macOS calendar, automatically capturing and transcribing meetings as they happen, so you never miss a detail. Smart hotkey support allows you to start dictation instantly, and the transcribed text can be pasted into any input field with proper accessibility permissions. Muesli free Open Source nature encourages community contributions, ensuring continuous improvement and transparency. The app handles typical challenges like app permissions gracefully, with clear FAQs to guide you through granting Accessibility and Input Monitoring access. Whether you're a journalist conducting interviews, a student taking lecture notes, or a professional in back-to-back meetings, Muesli provides a reliable, distraction-free dictation experience without an internet connection. The Muesli free Open Source commitment also means you can inspect, modify, and distribute the code, aligning with the values of digital sovereignty and user empowerment. By keeping everything on-device, Muesli respects your privacy and aligns with the ethos of free speech, allowing you to express ideas without surveillance. With its blend of robust performance, intuitive design, and uncompromising principles, Muesli stands out as a must-have tool in the AI audio category for anyone seeking a cost-free, private, and open alternative to commercial dictation software.
Muesli is listed on FreeAIList because it offers a confirmed open source — meaning the software is open-source and free to self-host. Every tool on this list is manually tested before being published. We verify the free offer actually works, not just what a pricing page claims.
Muesli is a good fit if you need audio capabilities and want to start without a financial commitment. The free open source is particularly useful for:
Getting Muesli's free open source only takes a few minutes. Open Muesli's website then follow these steps:
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