Set up your speech engine

Install the Windows preview and open Settings → Engine. Choose the local SenseVoice model if you want transcription on your device after the model download. Or select a supported cloud speech provider and add your own API key.

The local model requires a first-time download. Cloud engines need an internet connection and may have provider usage charges.

  1. Download RediFinch for Windows 10 or 11 (x64).
  2. In Settings → Engine, choose Local or a cloud provider.
  3. If you choose Local, download the model before your first recording.

Dictate into the field you are using

Put your cursor in a message, document, browser form, or another editable Windows app. Hold Ctrl+Win, speak naturally, and release. The recording overlay shows when RediFinch is listening. When transcription finishes, the text is inserted at the cursor.

You can change mode shortcuts in settings. Separate shortcuts let you move between raw dictation, polishing, translation, and the assistant without opening the app each time.

  1. Focus the destination text field.
  2. Hold the dictation shortcut and speak.
  3. Release the keys and review the inserted text before sending.

Choose how much editing you want

Raw output keeps the transcript closest to your speech. Polish mode uses a separately configured writing model to turn a rough thought into clearer text. That processing sends text to the provider you select.

For names, numbers, and important messages, read the result before publishing. A speech model can mishear words, and a polishing model can change nuance.

If text does not appear

Check that the destination field still has focus and that the recording overlay appears when you hold the shortcut. If the destination app runs as administrator, Windows may prevent text insertion from a normally privileged RediFinch process. Run both apps at the same privilege level.

If the shortcut does not start recording, check Windows shortcut conflicts and the mode shortcut settings. The Start Dictation button inside RediFinch can help isolate a shortcut issue from a microphone or provider issue.