> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.kombify.io/llms.txt > Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further. # SpeechKit modes and data paths > Understand Dictation, Assist, Voice Agent, and provider boundaries SpeechKit uses three strict modes. Choose the smallest mode that matches the task so the expected processing and output stay clear. ## Dictation Dictation turns speech into text. It does not perform LLM rewriting, execute utilities, or generate spoken replies. Use it for notes, forms, messages, and other direct transcription tasks. ## Assist Assist turns speech or text into one bounded result. That result may come from a deterministic replacement, a utility, or an LLM, and may optionally be read aloud. Use it when you want transformation or a single answer rather than a live conversation. ## Voice Agent Voice Agent is a realtime audio conversation. It is intended for interactive brainstorming, support, and follow-up questions where turn detection and spoken output matter. ## Hands-Free and customization Hands-Free controls activation, microphone capture, automatic end-of-speech, and optional speaker output over the three modes. Words teach SpeechKit terms to recognize; Replacements apply deterministic text, command, snippet, synonym, or template transformations. ## Local and external providers Provider choice determines the data path: | Provider type | Data boundary | | ---------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------ | | Local STT or local model | Processing can remain on the device or your own server. | | Self-hosted SpeechKit server | Data travels to the server you operate. | | External voice provider | Audio, text, or both may be sent to that provider under its terms. | SpeechKit does not make an external provider local. Review provider configuration and privacy terms before sending sensitive audio. Download and verify the current public beta.