Note: Due to unusually high volume during the COVID-19 pandemic, recordings and files may require extra processing time.
What happens after recording a conversation or importing a file?
Once the recording has been stopped or a file has finished importing, the audio must be processed. Once the recording or file has finished processing, you will be able to view, edit, or export your conversation. Otter will send an email when the process is completed.
The additional processing is powered by advanced machine learning that distinguishes and separates the audio into segments associated with each individual and then groups together speech segments on the basis of speaker characteristics and timestamps. This process is compute-intensive and can take time depending on the duration and number of speakers.
How long does processing take?
The processing time depends on the duration of the recording or file, the number of speakers, and how busy the Otter service is. The table below describes the typical processing time by the input type.
Note: During peak times, recordings may require extra processing time, regardless of the recording duration.
| Input type | Typical processing time |
| Import audio and video files for transcription | Same time as the file duration |
| Record using Otter with an internet connection | Several minutes after the recording ends |
| Record using Otter without an internet connection | Same time as the recording duration |
My conversation has been processing for several hours. What do I do?
The processing time depends on the duration of the recording or file, the number of speakers, and how busy the Otter service is. During peak times, recordings may require extra processing time, regardless of the recording duration.
If the transcription has been processing for an unexpected amount of time, contact support for further assistance. Include the date, time, and title of each affected conversation to accelerate our ability to assist you.
Importing a file fails or won't finish
When importing an audio or video file, a progress indicator shows the percentage to reflect the status of the import.
If the progress indicator is showing the same percentage for a longer than expected time or shows an error, there may be a problem with your internet connection or other factors.
Perform one or more troubleshooting steps to fix the problem.