Privacy Policy

Last Updated: December 2024

Introduction

Whisper Snapper (“we,” “our,” or “the app”) is a macOS application for transcribing audio and video files. We are committed to protecting your privacy and being transparent about how data is handled.

This Privacy Policy explains what information is collected, how it is used, and the choices you have when using Whisper Snapper.

Summary

  • Local transcription: Your audio never leaves your Mac
  • Cloud transcription: Audio is sent to third-party APIs (OpenAI, Deepgram) only when you choose this option
  • No accounts required: We don’t collect personal information
  • No analytics or tracking: We don’t monitor your usage
  • Data stays on your device: Transcripts are stored locally on your Mac

Information We Collect

Information We Do NOT Collect

Whisper Snapper does not collect, store, or transmit:

  • Personal information (name, email, address)
  • Usage analytics or app statistics
  • Crash reports or diagnostics
  • Location data
  • Device identifiers
  • Any data for advertising purposes

Information Stored Locally on Your Device

The following data is stored locally on your Mac and is never transmitted to us:

  • Transcripts: All transcription results are saved locally using Apple’s SwiftData framework
  • API Keys: If you use cloud transcription services, your API keys are stored securely in the macOS Keychain
  • App Preferences: Your settings and preferences are stored locally

This data remains on your device and under your control. We have no access to it.

Audio and Video Processing

Local Transcription (Parakeet, WhisperKit)

When you use local transcription models:

  • All processing occurs entirely on your Mac
  • Your audio and video files are never uploaded anywhere
  • No internet connection is required
  • We have no access to your files or transcripts

This is the most private option available.

Cloud Transcription (OpenAI, Deepgram)

When you choose to use cloud-based transcription:

  • Your audio is sent to third-party API providers for processing
  • This requires an active internet connection
  • You must provide your own API keys for these services
  • We do not have access to your API keys or the audio you send

Third-party services used:

OpenAI

Deepgram

When using cloud services, your audio is subject to the privacy policies of these third-party providers. We encourage you to review their policies before using cloud transcription.

Microphone Access

Whisper Snapper requests microphone access to enable the built-in audio recording feature. This permission is:

  • Only used when you actively choose to record audio
  • Controlled by macOS system permissions
  • Revocable at any time in System Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone

Audio recorded through the app is stored locally on your device and processed according to your chosen transcription method (local or cloud).

Data Security

We implement the following security measures:

  • API Key Storage: API keys are stored in the macOS Keychain, Apple’s secure credential storage system
  • App Sandbox: The app runs in a sandboxed environment with minimal system permissions
  • Hardened Runtime: The app uses Apple’s hardened runtime for additional security
  • No External Servers: We do not operate servers that receive or store your data

Data Retention

Since all data is stored locally on your device:

  • Transcripts: Retained until you delete them within the app
  • API Keys: Retained in Keychain until you remove them
  • Recorded Audio: Retained until you delete the files

You have full control over your data. Deleting the app will remove app preferences, but transcripts and Keychain items may need to be deleted separately.

Children’s Privacy

Whisper Snapper is not directed at children under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect any information from children. The app does not require account creation or submission of personal information.

Your Choices

You have control over your privacy when using Whisper Snapper:

ChoiceHow to Exercise ItUse only local transcriptionSelect Parakeet or WhisperKit as your transcription engineRevoke microphone accessSystem Settings > Privacy & Security > MicrophoneDelete transcriptsDelete within the app or remove app dataRemove API keysDelete from Keychain Access or within app settingsUninstall the appDrag to Trash from Applications folder

Third-Party Links

Our website or app may contain links to third-party websites or services. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these external sites. We encourage you to read their privacy policies.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Changes will be reflected by updating the “Last Updated” date at the top of this page.

For significant changes, we will provide notice through the app or on our website. Your continued use of the app after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

Contact Us

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or our privacy practices, please contact us:

Email: support@whispersnapper.com

Website: https://whispersnapper.com