Enable Voice Transcription via Keyboard Shortcuts in the ChatGPT macOS App

ChatGPT Feature requests
1

Description
When using the ChatGPT macOS app alongside other applications (e.g., IntelliJ), I often want to quickly dictate instructions using Voice Transcription. However, the current process involves multiple mouse-based interactions, which disrupts my workflow:

  1. I have to switch to the ChatGPT app using the App Switcher or mouse.
  2. I click the Transcribe button to start recording.
  3. I click the Check button to stop transcription.
  4. I have to wait until the transcription is done.
  5. I press Enter (or click a button) to submit the message.

This sequence is time-consuming and unnecessarily friction-heavy for frequent use.

Proposed Solution
Introduce keyboard shortcuts to control Voice Transcription.

The shortcuts could include:

  • Start/Stop Transcription: A single shortcut (e.g., Command + Option + R) to toggle Voice Transcription on or off.
  • Submit Transcription: Another shortcut (e.g., Enter) to immediately submit the transcribed text.

Example Workflow

  1. I am writing in IntelliJ and decide to interact with ChatGPT.
  2. I use Command + Tab to switch to the ChatGPT macOS app.
  3. I press Command + Option + R to start Voice Transcription.
  4. I dictate my message.
  5. I press Command + Option + R again to stop the transcription.
  6. I press Enter to submit the transcribed message.

This streamlined flow avoids mouse interactions entirely, reducing friction and saving time.

Benefits

  • Improved Workflow: Developers, writers, and other users can dictate instructions seamlessly without breaking focus from their primary task.
  • Reduced Friction: All interactions for transcription and message submission can be performed using the keyboard.
  • Faster Iteration: No need to manually click buttons; actions are instant and efficient.

Why This Matters
Voice Transcription is a powerful feature, but its usability is currently limited by mouse-based controls. Adding app-specific keyboard shortcuts allows users to fully leverage this feature without disrupting their workflows. While global shortcuts would be ideal, enabling shortcuts once the app is active already provides a significant improvement for frequent users.

Thank you for considering this enhancement!

2 Likes
2

Would love to have these proposed keyboard shortcuts for improved productivity.