Ghost in the Machine: Building a Haunted Terminal with Local Open-Source AI & Web Speech API

Description and use

A local, offline terminal that displays spooky CRT text and whispers contextual commentary using the browser’s Web Speech API.

Problem

Create a privacy‑first terminal companion that provides contextual audio commentary without sending data to the cloud.

Outcome

A fully offline, privacy‑preserving terminal that delivers spooky audio commentary, enhancing user experience without external data transmission.

Workflow

• Build a CRT‑styled web terminal using HTML, CSS, and lightweight JavaScript.
• Capture user shell commands in the browser without transmitting them externally.
• Apply local inference logic to generate contextual commentary rules.
• Use the browser’s Web Speech API (speechSynthesis) to synthesize low‑pitched voice whispers.
• Render the commentary on screen and play it through the speakers.
• Allow users to swap response rules or plug in local Ollama/open‑weight models for customization.

Evidence

A retro CRT‑styled web terminal interface built with pure HTML, CSS, and lightweight JavaScript inference logic combined with the browser's Web Speech API (speechSynthesis).

Source

When users type commands like git status, npm install, sudo, or hack: The local machine instantly evaluates the command without sending any data to external cloud servers.

Source

It triggers a synthesized, low‑pitched voice whisper that speaks the haunting commentary directly through your speakers!

Source