Privacy and local storage
Understand which WhisperARC workflows stay on the device and which optional features need internet access.
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Local-first processing
Local Mode uses Whisper for microphone, system audio and files. Microphone translation, Assistant modes and glossary corrections also run locally with Qwen where applicable.
History, glossaries, custom mode instructions, file jobs, settings and saved History audio stay in this Windows account. They are not synchronized between devices.
What Cloud sends
Cloud sends audio online for Whisper Large v3 Turbo transcription. When translation is enabled, the transcript is sent for online translation. An active dictation mode sends its instructions and the dictation text for online rewriting. History remains local.
What OpenAI KEY sends
OpenAI KEY sends audio directly to OpenAI for transcription and text for translation or rewriting. Your API key stays in encrypted local settings and is not stored by the WhisperARC licensing backend. History remains local; this does not describe the provider's own data-retention policy.
Local usage figures
WhisperARC keeps totals for average speed, dictated words and estimated time saved on this computer. These records contain counts and timings. They do not keep a second copy of what you said. They are separate from History and are not synchronized between devices.
Other online features
License validation, Cloud, OpenAI KEY, model downloads, update checks and installer downloads need an internet connection. Configured production builds may send limited technical diagnostics. These diagnostics exclude audio, transcripts, prompts, clipboard content, API and license keys, authorization headers, email addresses and local file details.
Protect your data
- Protect the Windows account with a password or PIN.
- Set a finite History retention period or choose Do not save on shared computers.
- Delete History rows and exported files when they are no longer needed.
- Store sensitive source recordings and exports in an encrypted or access-controlled location.
- Share audio or license details with support only when necessary and through an agreed channel.