Build from source
Rat Remote is currently distributed as an Apache 2.0 open-source project through GitHub rather than a paid download.
Rat Remote · Setup guide
Set up Rat Remote
on your Mac.
Build the open-source app, choose the controls you want and grant only the macOS permissions those features need.
Open the repository →
Choose your speech stack
Use Apple’s on-device options, a local model or a compatible endpoint configured with your own credentials.
Permissions stay visible
Accessibility, Microphone, Screen Recording and Speech Recognition are managed through macOS Privacy & Security.
— Step by step
Set it up
without guessing.
- 01
Get the source
Clone or download the public Rat Remote repository and follow its current build instructions in Xcode.
- 02
Build and open the app
Select the Mac app target, build it locally and launch Rat Remote. macOS may ask you to confirm opening a locally built app.
- 03
Pair the Siri Remote
Connect a compatible remote in macOS Bluetooth settings. The Mac’s own microphone can still be used for dictation without a remote.
- 04
Enable the features you need
Grant Accessibility for pointer and text control, Microphone and Speech Recognition for speech, and Screen Recording only when using screen-aware commands.
— Good to know
Clear limits.
Useful answers.
Start with the minimum
You do not need every permission for every feature. Enable a capability when Rat Remote explains why it is needed.
Pick the input microphone
Choose the microphone Rat Remote should record in its settings. The Siri button acts as a convenient push-to-talk trigger.
Keep inference under your control
Local and self-hosted options let you decide where supported voice and command processing runs.