Developer mitmllc built WhisperPad, an open‑source menu‑bar dictation tool that transcribes speech locally on macOS and injects the result directly into the active field. The app arose from the creator’s worsening repetitive‑strain injury, which made typing painful and forced a search for a hands‑free workflow. Apple rejected the latest update, citing misuse of its accessibility API.

Apple’s rejection referenced Guideline 2.4.5, which restricts apps from using the accessibility permission to paste text into other applications. Earlier versions of WhisperPad passed review with the same behavior, so the developer appealed, explaining the medical necessity and offering minor fixes. Apple responded with an official second denial, leaving the creator to choose between compliance or a separate distribution channel.

The author split the project: a Mac App Store build that copies transcription to the clipboard, requiring a manual Command‑V, and a direct‑download version that auto‑pastes as originally intended. Shipping outside the store required Paddle for payments, Sparkle for updates, and a licensing server, but it preserved full functionality. Both versions are now available, giving an offline dictation option for users with hand injuries.