Cleft is a voice-first notes app for capturing ideas before they disappear. Built for Apple devices, it turns spoken thoughts into readable notes that can move into an existing notes or task system rather than replacing it.
What it does Record on iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch or CarPlay. Transcription runs on-device and can work offline; signed-in notes sync across devices. Choose structured notes, prose or a cleaned transcript, then edit Markdown, search, tag and export. Sharing and local-folder sync support workflows with apps such as Apple Notes and Obsidian; Plus adds direct Notion and Zapier integrations, attachments, custom output styles and protected share links. On-device transcription should not be confused with a promise that every AI processing step is offline.
Pricing — checked 21 October 2026 (USD) • Basic: $0, with recordings up to 5 minutes, three built-in styles, local sync, search and export. • Plus: $6.99/month or $39.99/year, billed through the App Store. Recordings extend to 30 minutes, with append/continue, custom styles, 500-character custom instructions and Family Sharing for up to five family members. Subscriptions renew automatically; cancellation preserves access through the paid period. Regional App Store prices may differ. The published comparison lists per-recording limits, not a metered per-minute charge.
Their story Justin Mitchell and Jonathan Cosgrove built Cleft after finding conventional note-taking too slow for their own needs. They describe it as a neurodivergent-led, bootstrapped and customer-funded business, built in Ireland alongside Amber and other projects. Their emphasis is quick capture, accessibility and control over personal thoughts.