Summary
Zerkalo does not require an account and does not include ads or third-party analytics. Recordings and transcripts are processed on the Mac or iPhone where you capture them. Each device keeps a local library. When iCloud sync is on, text records and writing settings are also replicated through your private CloudKit database. Source audio is not synchronized. On Mac, Zerkalo can also maintain readable JSON and Markdown copies in a folder you choose.
Data on your devices
Depending on the features you use, Zerkalo may handle:
- microphone audio captured after you start a recording;
- raw, live, and cleaned transcript text;
- vocabulary rules and corrections you choose to keep;
- writing contexts, formatting choices, shortcut settings, and permission preferences;
- local transcript metadata such as duration, creation date, language, and source application when available; and
- technical status information included only when you export a diagnostic report.
How processing works
Zerkalo uses the on-device speech technology and language model provided by macOS or iOS. The language model is used for conservative cleanup; when it is unavailable, Zerkalo applies a simpler cleanup on your device.
Apple provides and manages the speech and language models Zerkalo uses. Those system services are also subject to Apple's terms and privacy policy.
Retention and deletion
Audio is deleted after processing by default. If you enable audio retention, the recording is saved in app-managed local storage. Temporary recovery files may also be kept there after an interruption so you can retry or discard the recording.
You can delete individual transcripts, remove learned vocabulary, clear synchronized transcript history, disable iCloud sync on a device, or discard recoverable sessions. On Mac, you can also choose a different folder for readable JSON and Markdown copies.
Your controls
Apple's operating systems control Microphone access. On Mac, Accessibility is used only when you ask Zerkalo to insert text at the original cursor; without it, finished text remains on the clipboard. Input Monitoring is needed only for certain Mac shortcut choices such as the Function key. You can change or revoke these permissions in system settings.
Diagnostics
Zerkalo does not upload diagnostics. When you choose Export Diagnostics, it creates a local text report that excludes recordings, transcript content, vocabulary, and full file paths. You decide whether to save or share it.
Questions
For setup, permission, and troubleshooting guidance, visit the support page.