The challenge: dictation tools that still require editing
Most people with RSI who try voice dictation hit the same wall: the transcription requires editing, and editing is typing. You've replaced one source of strain with another, and often a more frustrating one — correcting raw speech output word by word.
The only way to truly reduce keyboard use is to produce finished text on the first pass — no correction loop. That requires AI cleanup on top of transcription.
How AiType minimises keyboard use
On desktop, AiType's pipeline is: hold → speak → release → paste. The only keyboard interaction required is:
- Holding one key while you speak (on desktop)
- ⌘V to paste the result
That's two keystrokes per message, regardless of length. A 200-word email requires the same two keystrokes as a 5-word Slack reply.
On mobile (iPhone and Android), tap Mic, speak, then tap Stop. AiType inserts the cleaned text into the active field.
Comparing the keyboard load
- Typing a 50-word email: ~250 keystrokes
- Apple Dictation + editing a 50-word email: ~50–100 keystrokes (corrections)
- AiType for a 50-word email: ~2 keystrokes (hold + paste)
Setup for minimal hand use
On Mac
The default AiType shortcut is ⌥ Option (hold). For users with RSI, consider remapping it to a foot pedal or a large programmable key on the left side of the keyboard to minimise wrist rotation. AiType accepts any key combination as the trigger.
On Windows
Similar remapping is available. A foot pedal (common in transcription setups) mapped to any key works as an AiType trigger, keeping your hands off the keyboard entirely while dictating.
On iPhone / Android
The mobile AiType keyboard has a large mic button. Tap Mic, speak, then tap Stop. No keyboard typing is required for dictation. For navigation and selection, use iOS's Voice Control or Android's Voice Access as a complement.
What AiType can't replace (yet)
- Code: AiType is a prose tool, not a code editor. Dictating code directly produces poor results. Use it to dictate prompts into Cursor or Copilot instead.
- Precise editing: Moving a cursor to a specific word, reformatting a table, inserting a hyperlink — these still need pointing device or keyboard interaction.
- Passcode / password entry: iOS blocks third-party keyboards during secure input, so those fields still use the default keyboard.
Complement AiType with other accessibility tools
- macOS Voice Control (System Settings → Accessibility → Voice Control) for navigating the UI and clicking without a mouse
- iOS Voice Control for phone navigation without touch
- Dictation-friendly hardware: a quality USB cardioid mic or a Bluetooth headset with a boom mic dramatically improves accuracy in any environment
- Ergonomic mouse / trackball: reduces the pointing-device load on your wrist
The goal: under 10 keystrokes per hour
With AiType handling all prose output and OS-level voice navigation handling UI interaction, many users with RSI reduce their typing to under 10 keystrokes per hour of work. That's a meaningful reduction in strain for knowledge workers.
Start the 14-day free trial
No credit card required. Works on Mac, Windows, iPhone, and Android.