TL;DR
Handy is a free app that uses AI models to convert spoken words into written text, according to a Wired feature by Justin Pot. The piece presents Handy as a simple, no-cost alternative to typing for dictation and transcription.
What happened
Wired ran a piece introducing Handy, a free speech-to-text application that relies on artificial intelligence to turn a user’s spoken voice into written text. The article, written by Justin Pot and published January 3, 2026, describes the app as simple to use and capable of producing accurate transcriptions. The writeup frames Handy as a straightforward tool for replacing or supplementing keyboard typing with voice input, positioning it within broader conversations about productivity and hands-free computing. Beyond noting the app’s availability at no charge and its use of AI models for conversion, the published excerpt does not provide technical details such as supported platforms, privacy practices, or developer information. The coverage appears in Wired’s Gear section, alongside other how-to and software-focused reporting.
Why it matters
- Making accurate speech-to-text free could lower barriers to dictation and transcription for many users.
- Voice input can improve accessibility for people who have difficulty typing.
- Reducing reliance on keyboards may change productivity workflows for writing and note-taking.
- Widespread, low-cost AI transcription tools raise questions about data handling and privacy practices.
Key facts
- The app is called Handy.
- Wired describes Handy as a free speech-to-text application.
- Handy uses AI models to convert spoken voice into text, per the article.
- Wired’s article characterizes the app as simple and accurate in its transcription.
- The piece was written by Justin Pot and published on January 3, 2026.
- The story appeared in Wired’s Gear category under topics including software and apps.
What to watch next
- Platform availability (e.g., iOS, Android, web) — not confirmed in the source.
- How Handy handles audio, transcription storage, and user data — not confirmed in the source.
- Offline transcription capability and model locality — not confirmed in the source.
Quick glossary
- Speech-to-text: Technology that converts spoken language into written text through software.
- AI model: A computer program trained on data to perform tasks such as recognizing speech or generating text.
- Transcription: The process of converting audio content into a written or typed record.
- Dictation: Speaking words aloud with the intent that they be converted into text by software or a human transcriber.
Reader FAQ
Is Handy free to use?
Yes; the Wired article states Handy is available at no cost.
Does Handy produce accurate transcriptions?
The article describes the app as capable of accurately converting speech to text.
Which devices or platforms support Handy?
not confirmed in the source
How does Handy handle user audio and privacy?
not confirmed in the source
JUSTIN POT GEAR JAN 3, 2026 7:00 AM Stop Using Your Keyboard and Start Using This Simple, Free Speech-to-Text App It’s called Handy, and it uses AI models to accurately…
Sources
- Stop Using Your Keyboard and Start Using Handy, a Free Speech-to-Text App
- Handy.computer
- AI Speech to Text Mac and iPhone Dictation Software | Willow
- Ditch the Keyboard: 3 Better Ways to Produce Digital Text
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