I built a local, free Granola alternative (hobnob.info)

A new local application called Hobnob has been released, offering a privacy-centric alternative to existing meeting software. Notably, it requires no accounts or cloud connectivity, ensuring that meetings and their associated data remain solely on the user's device. The app provides real-time transcription with speaker identification, organizes structured meeting notes, and allows users to ask questions as they happen. Additionally, it integrates an auto-title feature for meetings based on calendar entries and provides seamless microphone and system audio capture. Hobnob's significance lies in its local execution of advanced features like the Whisper model for transcription and a bundled large language model (LLM) for summarizing conversations, enhancing user privacy and control. Users can customize the models they run, supporting a range of technical preferences. With support for Apple Silicon and Linux, including various package formats, Hobnob positions itself as a robust tool for professionals seeking to maintain data sovereignty while benefiting from AI-driven functionality in meetings.