You can transcribe a YouTube video in Otter and utilize a broad range of features to engage with the video, such as AI Summary, Outline, Otter AI Chat, and more. You have two options to record YouTube videos.
Import the YouTube video to Otter (recommended)
Download the YouTube video and import the file into Otter. We recommend downloading the file as an MP4 or MP3; however, we support a variety of formats for importing.
- Download the YouTube video.
Disclaimer: Otter.ai does not endorse or recommend any 3rd party service to download a YouTube video. Please research and make an informed decision if you decide to utilize a 3rd party service to download a YouTube video. You can use Google Search to find a program if needed. Use 3rd party services at your own discretion and judgment. - Click on Import in the upper corner of Otter.
- Browse or drag your file into the box to import the file.
- Otter will begin to upload and transcribe the file.
Note: The upload time will depend on your internet speed and connection. Once uploaded to our server, transcribing can take up to the length of the video.
Click Go to transcript anytime once the upload stage is completed. You can start managing the conversation, such as sharing permissions or renaming the title. The full transcript will only show once transcribing is completed, followed by speaker tagging and summary.
Record the YouTube video manually
If you are unable to download the YouTube video, you can manually record the conversation in the browser.
Note: Recording a conversation in the browser will rely on your device's audio settings and input. You will not be able to wear headphones. Refrain from speaking or playing other sounds while the YouTube video is recording to prevent unwanted audio from being recorded.
- Open the browser and navigate to the YouTube video. Do not click play yet.
- Open a new browser window and sign into Otter.
- (optional) Place the browser windows next to each other to view the video and Otter transcript while it's being transcribed.
- Click Record on the Otter homepage in the upper corner.
- Let the video play through fully to record and transcribe.
Tip: Otter will transcribe your video in real time, allowing you to interact with the conversation (e.g., highlighting, commenting, etc.) or use AI features such as Otter Chat. - Stop the recording in Otter once the video has finished playing.
- Otter will finish post-recording processes, such as speaker tagging and summary processing.
FAQs
Can I paste my YouTube URL or link into Otter to be transcribed?
- No.
- We do not support pasting a YouTube URL or link into Otter to be transcribed at this time.
- We hope to support more ways to record YouTube videos in the future.
Is there a limit to how long I can record and transcribe a YouTube video?
- Yes.
- Recording limits are based on your current subscription. You can find your current Otter plan in Account Settings > Plan and refer to our pricing page for more info on features, limits, and details for your plan.
What formats can I import into Otter if I download the YouTube video?
- Otter supports a variety of formats.
- Refer to our Import an audio or video file article for more information on the formats we support.
Can I download just the audio of a YouTube video?
- Yes.
- You can just download the audio file of a YouTube video; you do not need to download the video of a YouTube video to import it into Otter.