MagicTranslate · Product Notes

Current details on free access, local processing, privacy, API keys, and data export

This page summarizes the current version's free access, local processing, Privacy Mode, bring-your-own API keys, and data export.

1. Local-first, with offline use when you need it

The default engine (Apple's on-device translation), local LLMs, OCR, the dictionary, Live Captions, and speech all run on your Mac. Core translation keeps working with the network unplugged.

You can check: turn off Wi-Fi and translate again — or enable Privacy Mode (⌃⌥P).

2. Privacy Mode makes network activity easier to understand

With Privacy Mode on, the app disables and blocks network requests and shows a blocked-request counter. The Privacy Report summarizes how much was handled on-device. MagicTranslate has no account system or analytics SDK and does not upload crash reports; your translation content does not pass through our servers (see the Privacy Policy).

You can check: go to Settings → Privacy, enable Privacy Mode, and view the blocked-request counter. If useful, you can also compare it with Little Snitch or Proxyman.

3. Every feature is currently free to use

The current version does not charge for access. Copied-text translation, screenshot OCR, Live Captions, local models, AI actions, dictionary, vocabulary, and bilingual reading are all available.

4. Bring your own API key and connect directly

Cloud engines accept your own API keys (BYOK) and connect directly to the provider. Keys stay in the macOS Keychain, and requests go straight to the provider you choose without passing through a MagicTranslate relay.

You can check: enter a key for any supported provider under Settings → Engines and use it right away.

5. Your data is easy to export

The main data you build up in the app can be exported in open formats:

Glossaries: CSV / TSV import & export, TBX read-only mounting;
Translation memory: standard TMX 1.4b import & export — drops straight into OmegaT, Trados, or any CAT tool;
Vocabulary notebook: TSV / Anki export, plus direct AnkiConnect push;
Caption transcripts: SRT / VTT export, loadable in any player;
History & settings: stored on your Mac, deletable in-app at any time.

You can check: try exporting a copy from the relevant page and confirm that the format meets your needs.

Questions or feedback?

If your experience differs from this page, or you have questions about features or privacy, please contact us through the support page. We'll review it and update the information when needed.