CaribScribe
Guide

Getting started

From download to your first transcript, and setting up phones for fieldwork.

1. Install and first run

  1. Download CaribScribe, open the file and drag it to Applications.
  2. Open it. Look for the CaribScribe icon in the menu bar; the app opens in your browser.
  3. Trust the certificate when asked. (In Firefox, also accept the warning once, or use Safari or Chrome.)
  4. Create your passphrase and store it safely. There is no reset: without it, your interviews can't be opened.
  5. Accept the terms of use, then go to Settings → AI models → Download recommended.

2. Your first interview

  1. On the start page choose Record audio, Record video or Upload a file.
  2. Complete consent if your settings require it.
  3. Pick the language or dialect (e.g. Guyanese Creolese), the number of speakers and a translation language.
  4. Press Transcribe privately. You can close the page; it keeps working.
  5. Open the interview to review: click a line's time to play it, edit text, rename speakers.

3. Phones and tablets

Phones get CaribScribe from your Mac over your own Wi-Fi. Nothing is installed from an app store.

  1. On the Mac, choose Connect a phone or tablet… from the menu-bar icon. A QR code appears.
  2. Put the phone on the same Wi-Fi (internet isn't needed; a phone hotspot also works) and scan the code.
  3. Install the certificate:
    • iPhone/iPad: download the profile, then Settings → General → VPN & Device Management → install it. Then Settings → General → About → Certificate Trust Settings → turn on CaribScribe.
    • Android: Settings → Security → Encryption & credentials → Install a certificate → CA certificate. (Menu names vary by brand.)
  4. Open the CaribScribe address and use Add to Home Screen (Safari: Share button; Chrome: ⋮ menu).
  5. Open it from the home screen and sign in once while connected.

In the field

Open CaribScribe from the home screen. With no connection it opens in field mode: complete consent, record and take photos. Everything is encrypted immediately. Back on your Wi-Fi, open the app and recordings upload and transcribe automatically.

4. Activating a licence

After buying, copy the key from the confirmation page or email, then in CaribScribe open Settings → Licence, paste it and press Activate key. Lost it? Use My licence.

Troubleshooting

  • Browser says the connection isn't private: choose Trust certificate on this Mac… from the menu-bar icon.
  • Phone can't connect: check both are on the same Wi-Fi; some guest or university networks block devices from seeing each other, so use a phone hotspot instead.
  • Camera or mic won't start on the phone: the certificate isn't trusted yet (step 3).
  • Still stuck? Email [email protected]. Never send interview recordings.