SpeakOn’s dictation device is a good idea marred by platform limitations

In a world where efficiency is paramount, dictation apps like Wispr Flow, Willow, and Typeless have become essential tools for managing messages and emails. However, the challenge of using a phone's microphone or AirPods often leads to frustration over inaccurate transcription. This is where SpeakOn, a product from Notta, caught my attention with its dedicated dictation device. Despite its potential, my experience with the SpeakOn device was mixed due to its design and platform limitations. Shaped like a small pebble, it magnetically attaches to the back of your iPhone via MagSafe, similar to Plaud's AI meeting notetaker. Weighing in at just 25 grams, it’s lightweight enough to carry in your pocket without feeling burdensome. The companion app is designed like a keyboard, allowing users to dictate messages, and interestingly, it can be used independently of the device. Activating the dictation feature is simple: press the button on the device to start and release it when finished. With a single microphone designed to capture audio within a two-foot range, the device aims to provide clear dictation across any app that supports a software keyboard. One notable advantage is that SpeakOn uses its own mic rather than relying on the iPhone's, which can often be a source of confusion in traditional dictation apps. However, I found that the microphone struggled to pick up audio effectively unless the phone was kept quite close, and even then, surrounding noise could interfere with clarity. For future iterations, I hope to see improved microphone quality. Additionally, I encountered some frustrating limitations with the app's functionality. It would be beneficial if a double-tap on the record button could bring the SpeakOn keyboard to the forefront, allowing for seamless transitions between typing and dictation. The app does offer AI editing features that adjust tone based on the application in use, but I often found these edits unnecessary or overly formal, detracting from the natural flow of speech. The translation feature is a nice touch, enabling users to convert speech into several supported languages, including English, Japanese, and Spanish. The device boasts a claim of 10 hours of usage and a standby time of 20 days, though my experience suggested a more realistic standby duration of just a few days. I recommend a setting adjustment for automatic shut-off after a period of inactivity to conserve battery life. Charging is efficient, taking only an hour to reach full capacity, and even a brief plug-in can provide enough power for several minutes of dictation. Priced at $129, SpeakOn offers plans that permit the dictation of 5,000 words weekly, with a $12 monthly option for unlimited dictation. While SpeakOn has carved out a niche with its dictation device, its future success will depend on expanding compatibility and refining the user experience. With the right improvements, it could maintain its lead in a competitive market.