How to choose a transcription app for iPhone
There isn't one best app for everyone. There are three kinds, and a quick test will tell you which works for your voice.
The three kinds
| Good for | Watch out for | |
|---|---|---|
| Voice Memos, built in | Quick notes at no extra cost. Apple lists transcription on iPhone 12 or later in a set of languages | Language and region availability, and fewer tools for working with the text |
| Cloud services | Teams, browsers and devices of any kind | Your audio is uploaded, and most need an account |
| On-device apps | Privacy and working with no connection | A large first download, and results that depend on your iPhone |
What to compare
- Language: is yours supported, and does it handle speakers switching languages?
- Speakers: does it separate who said what, and can you rename them?
- Privacy: where does the audio go, and is an account required?
- Long recordings: are there limits on length or monthly minutes?
- Getting your text out: text, subtitles, PDF or Markdown?
- Cost: is it a one-off price or a subscription, and what is limited for free?
A five-minute test
- Record five minutes of the kind of audio you really use, such as a meeting or a class.
- Import the same file into each app you are considering.
- Count the mistakes in names and technical words. That's where apps differ the most.
- Check whether the speakers are separated correctly.
- Try to find one thing that was said, using search.
Where Parlo Notes fits
We make Parlo Notes, so weigh this accordingly. It's an on-device app for people who want transcripts, summaries and search without uploading their audio. It isn't the right choice if you need Android or Windows, or if a team has to work on the same transcripts.
Common questions
Does the iPhone already transcribe voice memos?
Apple says Voice Memos can transcribe recordings on iPhone 12 or later in a list of languages, in iOS 18 or later. Availability varies by country or region.
Are on-device apps as accurate as cloud ones?
It depends on the model your device can run and on the recording. The test above is the best way to find out.