Cat Scribe App
Transcribe your chicken-scratch
App Store | GitHub.
I built this because Drafts failed to read the handwriting in my notebook and Google’s Gemini was almost magical at deciphering my scribbles. So I spent a few days vibe coding this with the Cursor app. It’s free on the App Store and open source on GitHub.
There are no fancy features. Just: scan and save text to Drafts. That’s it.
If you find bugs or have ideas, email us – we actually read and respond. David@DavidDegner.com
Why It’s Better
⚡ Smart and Fast
- Lock Screen widget
- Opens instantly
- Can use local Apple Frameworks
- Uses Gemini AI for most accurate transcription
- Understands context to fix obvious errors
- Other AI APIs can be used too
Setup (2 Minutes, Worth It)
Get Gemini API Key
- Go to aistudio.google.com
- Sign in, click “Get API key” → “Create API key in new project”
- Copy the key
- Open Cat Scribe → Settings → paste key → save
Google gives you generous free usage. Keep the key secret.
Add Lock Screen Widget for Speed
- Long press lock screen → Customize → Add Widgets → Cat Scribe
- Pick: Inline (under clock), Circular (clean icon), or Rectangular (full branding)
How to Use It
- Write stuff on paper or see some text
- Tap any Cat Scribe widget
- Point camera at your notes, tap to scan
- Done. Text appears in Drafts app, ready to search/edit
What Works Great
- Any handwriting style: Messy notes, cursive, tiny text, pen/pencil/marker
- Any paper: Notebooks, sticky notes, napkins, receipts
- Decent lighting: Indoor lights, windows, even phone flashlight
- Multiple languages: English, Spanish, French, and more
When Things Go Wrong
Slow scanning? Check your internet (Cloud needs connection).
Can’t read your handwriting? Add the Gemini API key – Use the cloud service instead of local, it makes a huge difference.
Blurry scans? Clean your camera lens.
Download
Cat Scribe on the App Store — Free
Support: David@DavidDegner.com | Made by humans who write too much on napkins