> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.vowen.ai/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# macOS Guide

> macOS-specific features, settings, and tips.

## Supported Hardware

| Hardware                    | Status                        |
| --------------------------- | ----------------------------- |
| Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3/M4) | Best experience, all features |
| Intel Mac (x64)             | Supported, some models slower |

## macOS-Specific Features

### Fn Key Support

The Fn key is available as a shortcut on macOS (not available on Windows). It's the default transcription trigger — simple, accessible, and doesn't conflict with other shortcuts.

### Hide Dock Icon

Make Vowen a pure background app: **Settings > General > Hide Dock Icon**. Access it exclusively from the menu bar.

### CoreML Models

Parakeet uses Apple's CoreML format on macOS, optimized for Apple Silicon's Neural Engine. This gives fast, efficient local transcription.

### Menu Bar

Vowen appears in the macOS menu bar. Click for quick access to settings, model switching, and meeting notes controls.

### Template Icons

Menu bar icons automatically adapt to your macOS light/dark appearance.

## Permissions Required

| Permission       | Required For                 | How to Grant                                 |
| ---------------- | ---------------------------- | -------------------------------------------- |
| Accessibility    | Shortcuts, auto-paste        | System Settings > Privacy > Accessibility    |
| Microphone       | Voice recording              | System Settings > Privacy > Microphone       |
| Screen Recording | Meeting Notes (system audio) | System Settings > Privacy > Screen Recording |

<Tip>Only Microphone and Accessibility are required. Screen Recording is optional (only for Meeting Notes).</Tip>

## Keyboard Shortcuts

| Shortcut  | Action                  |
| --------- | ----------------------- |
| `Cmd + ,` | Open Settings           |
| `Cmd + Q` | Quit Vowen              |
| `Cmd + W` | Close window (not main) |
| `Cmd + H` | Hide Vowen              |
| `Cmd + M` | Minimize window         |

## Recommended Model for macOS

For Apple Silicon Macs, **Parakeet** offers the best speed-to-accuracy ratio with streaming support. For maximum accuracy, use **Groq Whisper Large v3** (cloud, free tier).

***

Have a macOS-specific question? See the [macOS FAQ](/faq#macos).