How to Transcribe an Audio or Video File You Already Have

TL;DR

Import from Files or iCloud Drive; the file becomes a note without a transcript, so nothing runs until you choose. Open it, tap Transcribe this recording and pick the language. Audio and common video formats are accepted.

The problem

Someone sent a recording, you have an interview on a USB drive, or a lecture video is sitting in Files. You need text, but transcription websites make you upload the file and wait.

Steps

  1. In the library tap the import button and choose Import from Files or iCloud Drive.
  2. Pick the audio or video file. It is added as a note with audio only.
  3. Open the note and tap Transcribe this recording.
  4. Pick the language and wait; a progress bar shows how far it is.
  5. When it finishes, review and edit.

Why import doesn’t transcribe automatically

It would use battery on a file you haven’t played, and it would have to guess the language. You pick the language first so the result is right the first time.

Tips

  • A clean mono voice track is the easiest to transcribe; video with music underneath is harder.
  • For very long files, plug in and keep the app open.
  • Rename the note after import.

FAQ

Which files can I import? Audio and video files that iOS can read, such as MP3, M4A, WAV and MP4/MOV, from Files or iCloud Drive.

Does import start transcribing? No. It adds the file as a note; you choose the language and start transcription.

Is the video uploaded? No. The audio is read on the device.

Can I transcribe a voice memo? Yes. Share it to Files, then import it.

The app SpeakSense →