Google quietly releases an offline-first AI dictation app on iOS

On Monday, Google introduced its new dictation application, named "Google AI Edge Eloquent," designed to function offline on iOS devices. This app aims to compete with existing tools like Wispr Flow, SuperWhisper, and Willow. Users can download the app for free, and after acquiring its Gemma-based automatic speech recognition (ASR) models, they can begin dictating directly from their phones. The app features live transcription, and a unique pause function that automatically removes filler words such as "um" and "ah," resulting in polished text. Eloquent offers various transformation options beneath the transcribed text, including settings for "Key points," "Formal," "Short," and "Long" formats. Additionally, users can choose to disable cloud processing for local-only usage. When cloud mode is active, the app utilizes cloud-based Gemini models to refine the text further. The app can also import specific keywords, names, and jargon directly from a user’s Gmail account, enhancing its personalization. Users have the option to add custom words as well. Eloquent keeps a record of transcription sessions, allowing users to easily search through past dictations. It even tracks metrics such as words spoken per minute and total word count. According to the App Store, "Google AI Edge Eloquent is designed to seamlessly convert natural speech into polished text, differentiating itself from standard dictation tools that replicate every stumble. This app harnesses AI to grasp the intended meaning while filtering out unnecessary verbal pauses." Currently available only on iOS, there are indications of an Android version in the works, as mentioned in the App Store description. This Android version is expected to integrate smoothly, allowing users to set it as a default keyboard across all text fields and utilize features similar to the floating button seen in Wispr Flow for quick access to transcription. As AI-driven transcription applications gain traction due to advancements in speech-to-text technology, Google's foray into this space with Eloquent signifies its commitment to enhancing user experience. Depending on the success of this experimental app, we may soon witness improved transcription capabilities on Android devices as well.