What stays local, and when Dictivo uses the network.
Dictivo is local-first, not cloud-only. Local mode keeps speech processing and product data on the device; Cloud Fast is a separate option for recordings you choose to process remotely.
Short answer for private dictation
In Dictivo Local mode, microphone audio, transcripts, history, dictionary terms, snippets, settings, and local model choices stay on the device. Dictivo uses the network for update checks, license or billing actions, support, and optional Cloud Fast. Cloud Fast uploads only the recording you send through that mode.
Local mode
Use Local mode when the words are private. Dictivo processes the current recording on the device and keeps the local product data on that device.
Local mode is the default privacy path for meetings, drafts, client work, notes, names, research, prompts, and any audio you do not want to upload.
- Microphone audio stays on the device in Local mode.
- Transcripts, history, dictionary terms, snippets, and settings stay local.
- No Dictivo account is required for Local dictation.
- Tiny stays free forever, and the 14-day full Local trial uses the same Local boundary.
Network requests
Dictivo does not promise that the app never uses the network. A desktop app still needs a small, visible network surface for product operations.
The important distinction is purpose: update checks and license actions are not transcription uploads. Cloud Fast is the mode that changes where the selected recording is processed.
- Update checks ask whether a newer app version is available.
- License and billing actions activate purchases, refresh status, manage subscriptions, or support refunds.
- Support email happens only when you contact support.
- Cloud Fast uploads only recordings you choose to send through Cloud Fast.
Cloud Fast
Cloud Fast is for low-sensitivity recordings where speed matters more than keeping the full path local. It is not the default Local workflow.
When you choose Cloud Fast, the selected recording is sent for remote transcription. The transcript returns to the app, and local dictionary or snippet behavior can still apply after the text comes back.
- Use Local for sensitive audio.
- Use Cloud Fast only when you are comfortable processing that selected recording remotely.
- The app labels the Local and Cloud Fast boundary so the choice is visible.
Privacy questions
01 Does Dictivo upload audio in Local mode?
No. Local mode is designed to keep the recording on the device for transcription.
02 Why does Dictivo use the network at all?
The app checks for updates, activates or refreshes licenses, opens billing flows, handles support, and uses Cloud Fast only when selected.
03 When should I use Cloud Fast?
Use Cloud Fast for low-sensitivity recordings where speed matters more than local-only processing.
04 Is Windows public now?
No. The public download is macOS today. Windows x64 remains in validation before public downloads.