Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about TalkCopyPaste.
Getting Started
How much time can I save?
The average person types at 40 WPM but speaks at 150 WPM — 3x faster. Most users save 30+ minutes per day, which adds up to 100+ hours per year. Try our calculator to see your exact savings.
Why do I need an API key?
Your audio goes directly to Groq for transcription. We never see or store it. This is MORE private than cloud apps that store your data on their servers.
How do I get started?
Download the app, get a free API key from Groq, and start dictating. The whole process takes about 3 minutes.
What hotkey should I use?
Default: Cmd+Shift+Space (Mac) or Ctrl+Shift+Space (Windows). You can change this in Settings.
Privacy & Security
Is my audio stored?
No. Audio goes directly from your machine to Groq, gets transcribed, then is deleted. We never see or store your recordings.
What data do you collect?
None. We dont collect, store, or track any data. Your API key, your usage, your business.
Where is my API key stored?
Your API key is stored securely in your OS keychain (macOS Keychain, Windows Credential Manager). We never see it.
Compatibility
Does it work in my app?
Yes! Because we use clipboard-based dictation, it works anywhere you can paste text: Gmail, Slack, Notion, Word, VS Code, Terminal, Discord, and more.
Why clipboard vs cursor injection?
Most dictation apps try to type where your cursor is. This fails when windows switch or fields lose focus. Clipboard works 100% of the time.
Can I use a different API besides Groq?
Yes! TalkCopyPaste works with OpenAI, Local Whisper, or any OpenAI-compatible API.
Free vs Pro
Do I need to pay?
No! The free tier is genuinely free. Groqs generous free tier gives you plenty of dictation daily. Most users never need to upgrade.
Can I use Pro on multiple devices?
Yes. The $29 Pro license includes 3 devices (Mac, Windows, or mix). Use it on your work laptop, home desktop, and travel machine.
When should I upgrade to Pro?
Upgrade to Pro if you need: 30-minute recordings (vs 2 min), smart formatting (AI punctuation/caps), or full history access (1000 entries vs 2).
Is Pro a subscription?
No! $29 one-time payment, lifetime access. No recurring charges, ever.
Technical
What are the recording limits?
Free: Up to 2 minutes per recording, unlimited sessions. Pro: Up to 30 minutes per recording, unlimited sessions.
Can I use this offline?
Not yet. Requires internet for API transcription. Offline support is on our roadmap.
Are there any costs?
TalkCopyPaste is free. We recommend Groq, which offers a generous free tier that works for most users. If you use other providers (OpenAI, Local Whisper) or exceed free limits, you may incur costs directly with those providers.
Is there a mobile app?
Not yet. Currently desktop only (Windows + macOS). Mobile is planned for the future.