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BYOK lets you use Utter with 100% free, unlimited usage by connecting your own provider keys. Bring Your Own Keys means you add API keys for speech-to-text and AI processing providers. Utter does not charge usage fees for BYOK. You can also use Utter with 100% free, unlimited usage through local models. For that setup, follow Use Utter Locally. Your data is sent directly to the providers you choose.

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How It Works

  1. Get an API key from any supported provider
  2. Add the key in Utter Settings > Advanced Settings > Custom Models
  3. Select the provider and model you want to use
  4. Use Utter without paying Utter for transcription or AI usage

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Supported Providers

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Speech-to-Text

Convert your voice to text using any of these providers:
OpenAI
ElevenLabs
Deepgram

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AI Processing

Process and format your transcriptions with:
Google Gemini
OpenRouter
OpenAI
Anthropic

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Setup

1

Get an API Key

Sign up with any supported provider and generate an API key
2

Open Utter Settings

Go to Settings > Advanced Settings > Custom Models
3

Add Your Key

Paste your API key for the provider you want to use
4

Select a Model

Choose which model to use for speech-to-text and AI processing
What to expect: Your providers and models appear in Utter, and new dictation requests use your configured keys. If that did not work: Re-paste keys without extra spaces, then test one short recording.

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Security

When using BYOK:
  • Keys are stored securely on your device, encrypted in Keychain
  • Audio/text is sent directly to your configured providers

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Troubleshooting

  1. Verify the key is correct (no extra spaces)
  2. Check the key has proper permissions
  3. Ensure your account has credits/payment method
  4. Try regenerating the key
This can happen with free-tier API keys that have rate limits. Consider upgrading your API tier for faster processing.