Frequently Asked Questions
General
What is OneMinuteExplain?
OneMinuteExplain is an iOS app that pairs a 25-minute focus timer with a 60-second voice recording. After focusing on a topic, you explain what you learned in your own words. The app transcribes your explanation on-device, helping you see what you truly understood.
What is the Feynman technique?
The Feynman technique is a learning method where you study a topic and then try to explain it in simple terms. If you struggle to explain something clearly, it reveals gaps in your understanding. OneMinuteExplain applies this principle through voice recording.
Why only 60 seconds?
A short time limit forces you to focus on the essentials. It encourages clarity over completeness and helps you identify the core of what you learned.
Can I skip the focus timer?
You can skip the timer if you've already studied. The focus timer is a guide, not a requirement.
Data & Privacy
Where is my data stored?
Your recordings, transcriptions, and session data are stored in your private iCloud account via CloudKit. Data is also cached locally on your device.
Is my data sent to any servers?
No. All speech recognition and audio processing happens entirely on your device using Apple's built-in frameworks. Nothing is sent to external servers.
Can I restore my data on a new device?
Yes. Since data syncs via iCloud, signing in with the same Apple ID on a new device will restore your sessions and recordings.
How do I delete my data?
You can delete individual sessions from the History view within the app. Deleting the app will remove all locally cached data.
Features
How does transcription work?
Transcription uses Apple's Speech framework to convert your recorded audio into text. It runs on-device and supports on-device recognition when available.
Does the app work offline?
Yes. You can record and transcribe without an internet connection. iCloud sync will happen automatically when you're back online.
What if transcription isn't accurate?
Transcription accuracy depends on audio clarity and language. Try speaking clearly in a quiet environment. The transcript is a reference tool, not a perfect record.
Technical
What are the system requirements?
OneMinuteExplain requires iOS 17.0 or later on iPhone. An iCloud account is needed for data sync.
What permissions are needed?
The app requires Microphone access (to record your explanation), Speech Recognition (to create transcripts), and optionally Notifications (to alert you when the focus timer ends).
I denied a permission. How do I re-enable it?
Go to your device's Settings app, find OneMinuteExplain, and toggle on the required permissions.
Still have questions? Contact us