Transcribe Voice Memos on an iPad or iPhone

Questions

  • Can I transcribe voice memos on my iPad into written notes?
  • I recorded a meeting as a voice memo on my iPhone. How do I transcribe it?
  • Can I turn audio from a meeting into text?
  • How do I get a written transcript of a recording on my iPhone or iPad?
  • How do I transcribe audio while I record it in the Notes app?
  • Why do I not see the transcription option for my recording?

Environment

This article applies to anyone using an iPhone or iPad that can run iOS or iPadOS version 18 or later, which is the version that added on-device transcription of recordings.

  • An iPhone or iPad running iOS or iPadOS version 18 or later.
  • Approval to record has been granted by the meeting attendees or instructor.

Resolution

Transcribe an existing recording in Voice Memos

The newest versions of iOS and iPadOS from Apple (version 18 and newer) can transcribe voice notes or voice memos into text. Open the Voice Memos app, then follow the steps for your device.

On iPhone:

  1. Select a recording.
  2. Tap the three dots.
  3. Choose Edit Recording.
  4. Tap the speech bubble icon in the bottom left to generate the transcription.

On iPad:

  1. Select your recording.
  2. Tap the speech bubble icon.

Record live audio and transcribe it in the Notes app

  1. Open the Notes app on your iPhone.
  2. In a note, tap the paperclip icon, then tap Record Audio.
  3. To start the recording, tap the red start button.
  4. When you are done, tap the red stop button.
  5. To see the transcript, tap the chat bubble icon.
Note: Spoken words in supported languages are transcribed automatically. If you do not see the chat bubble icon, your iPhone either does not meet the minimum requirements or does not detect a supported language.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you have several options:

  • Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
  • Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
  • In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
  • Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.
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