Local OCR for macOS
ClariRec is local-first, not local-only. Default OCR stays on your Mac. Cloud features run only when you choose them.
For a day-to-day offline checklist, see Offline OCR and translation.
Processing paths
| Mode | Content leaves device? | Trigger |
|---|---|---|
| System OCR | No | Default screenshot, clipboard, and file OCR |
| Local translation model | No after ~1.1GB model download | When that engine translates |
| Apple Intelligence translation | No (on-device when available) | Supported macOS 26 + Apple Intelligence ready |
| macOS system translation | Sometimes (language pack) | macOS 15+ system translation engine |
| BYOK OCR (Pro) | Yes | Remote OCR run; Pro or legacy access |
| BYOK translation / formula | Yes when triggered | Your configured endpoint |
ClariRec does not operate servers that receive your screenshots or text. Results stay in memory unless you export. API keys stay in Keychain. The app has no analytics SDKs.
Permissions
- Screen Recording — screenshot OCR (
⌥S) only; the region you select - Notifications — optional (Silent mode)
- Files — only paths you open, drag in, or pass into automation
- Not required — Accessibility, Camera, Microphone, Apple Events
Network use is explicit: BYOK features, provider tests, optional model download, or a system translation language pack.
Verify yourself
Watch outbound connections while using only System OCR. Expect traffic when you download a model/pack or enable a cloud provider. Legal wording: Privacy Policy.
Related
Screenshot OCR · Offline checklist · Translate · API keys · vs Live Text
