Push-to-talk input
Hold the right Option key to start recording, then release it to stop and insert the recognized text into the active field.
Open Typeless
Open Typeless is a macOS voice input tool for push-to-talk dictation, with live transcription and cursor insertion using Volcano Engine speech recognition.
Overview
Open Typeless is a macOS voice input tool built as a showcase for the Trellis framework. It lets you hold a shortcut key, speak, and have the recognized text inserted at the current cursor position when you release the key.
The README describes a background app that uses Volcano Engine speech recognition, a floating status window, and text insertion at the active cursor. It is aimed at users who want to dictate text quickly inside other macOS applications without switching windows or interrupting their workflow.
Features
Streaming transcription
Shows recognition results as they arrive, rather than waiting for a full final transcript.
Floating overlay
Uses a floating frosted-glass window to show recording status and live text without switching away from the current app.
Cursor insertion
Sends the finished text to the current cursor location so you can keep typing in place.
Non-disruptive workflow
Runs without taking focus away from the app you are using, so it fits into an existing workflow.
Use Cases
Hands-on dictation
Dictate text into any macOS app while keeping your hands on the keyboard. Hold the right Option key, speak, and release to insert text at the cursor.
Quick in-app note capture
Capture spoken notes or short messages without opening a separate editor. The floating window shows status and live transcription while you continue working.
Live transcription review
Use live recognition to review what is being heard as you speak, which is helpful when you want immediate feedback before the text is inserted.
Trellis framework example
Integrate the project as a Trellis showcase or reference implementation. The repository includes source layout notes, Electron docs, and use-case documentation for the app structure.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Supports push-to-talk dictation with a single hold-and-release gesture.
- Shows live transcription while you are speaking.
- Inserts dictated text at the current cursor location.
- Keeps the overlay visible without stealing focus from the current app.
Cons
- Requires macOS 12.0+ and Node.js 18+.
- Depends on Volcano Engine credentials and setup in a `.env` file.
- The default shortcut is fixed to the right Option key unless you modify the code.
- First-time recognition can have a 1–2 second WebSocket setup delay.
FAQ
What does Open Typeless do?
The README describes the app as a macOS voice input tool. It runs in the background, starts recording when you hold the right Option key, and inserts the recognized text at the current cursor position when you release it.
What do I need to run it?
The documented requirements are macOS 12.0+, Node.js 18+, and pnpm. The README also says you need microphone permission and Accessibility permission on first launch.
How is speech recognition configured?
The project uses Volcano Engine speech recognition. Setup requires copying `.env.example` to `.env` and filling in `VOLCENGINE_APP_ID`, `VOLCENGINE_ACCESS_TOKEN`, and `VOLCENGINE_RESOURCE_ID`.
Can I change the push-to-talk shortcut?
The shortcut is currently fixed to the right Option key. The README says you can change it by editing `src/main/services/keyboard/keyboard.service.ts`.
Why might recognition feel slow at first?
The README says the first connection to Volcano Engine may take 1–2 seconds because it establishes a WebSocket connection, and later use is faster.
Quick Facts
- Category
- Developer Tool
- Platform
- macOS
- Primary use
- Voice dictation and text insertion
- Framework
- Trellis
- Recognition service
- Volcano Engine ASR
- Repository
- github.com/mindfold-ai/open-typeless
Open Typeless Alternatives
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CAKIE
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