Jarvis AI Assistant provides a free, open-source, and privacy-focused voice-powered AI assistant for macOS. It addresses the high cost and data privacy concerns associated with commercial dictation and AI tools by offering a fully local-capable solution. The project targets Mac users seeking a powerful, subscription-free alternative for transcription, text correction, and basic AI actions, empowering users with control over their data and workflow.

How It Works

Jarvis leverages local processing for transcription via OpenAI's Whisper models (tiny, base, small) and integrates with local Large Language Models (LLMs) through Ollama for enhanced privacy and speed. Alternatively, users can opt for cloud-based services like Deepgram and Gemini for potentially higher accuracy and faster responses, with a generous free tier available. The core functionality involves holding the 'Fn' key to speak, after which the audio is transcribed, cleaned of filler words, and corrected for grammar. It can also rephrase text or perform simple commands like opening applications or setting timers.

Quick Start & Requirements

Installation is straightforward via downloadable DMG files for Mac (Apple Silicon or Intel). For enhanced privacy and functionality, users can enable local Whisper and Ollama in the settings. Ollama requires separate installation, followed by pulling specific models (e.g., ollama pull llama3). Cloud functionality requires pasting free Deepgram and Gemini API keys. Building from source requires Node.js 18+, macOS 10.13+, and Xcode CLI tools. Basic setup is estimated at 30 seconds. An iOS TestFlight version is also available.

Highlighted Details

• 100% open-source (MIT License) and 100% local-capable.
• Free forever, directly contrasting with expensive subscription-based competitors.
• Automatic removal of filler words ("um," "like") and grammar correction.
• Seamless integration with local LLMs via Ollama for private AI processing.
• Zero tracking or telemetry, ensuring user privacy.
• Signed and notarized by Apple for a secure user experience on macOS.

Maintenance & Community

The project is primarily developed by a single individual, emphasizing a passion-driven, community-oriented approach. Community involvement is encouraged through GitHub stars and issue reporting, with a roadmap indicating planned features and areas for user input.

Licensing & Compatibility

Jarvis AI Assistant is released under the permissive MIT License, allowing for broad use, modification, and distribution, including within commercial and closed-source applications.

Limitations & Caveats

The current primary focus is on macOS, with Windows support listed as a future roadmap item. Advanced features such as custom voice commands, clipboard manipulation, and multi-step actions are still under development. Users opting for cloud features must provide their own API keys, while local LLM users need to manage Ollama installations and model downloads.