Google Tests the Waters with a New, Offline-First Dictation App for iPhone

Google has introduced a new, experimental dictation app for iOS. Named "Google AI Edge Eloquent," the free application processes speech directly on a user's device after downloading its initial models, a design choice that emphasizes privacy and immediacy. It enters a field with established players like Wispr Flow and SuperWhisper.

The app provides a live transcript as you speak. Upon pausing, it automatically removes verbal hesitations such as "um" and "ah," delivering polished text. Users can then refine that text further using built-in tools to generate summaries or adjust the tone and length. A local-only mode ensures no data leaves the phone, though an optional cloud setting employs more powerful Gemini models for processing.

Notably, Eloquent can personalize its vocabulary. It can suggest relevant terms from a connected Gmail account and allows manual addition of custom words or jargon. The app maintains a searchable history of all dictation sessions, complete with metrics like words per minute.

Google's App Store description positions Eloquent as a tool for converting natural speech into professional text. While currently an iOS test, the description hints at future Android capabilities, including system-wide keyboard integration and a floating shortcut for transcription access anywhere on screen.

This release signals Google's interest in the evolving market for sophisticated, on-device speech-to-text tools. A successful pilot could influence transcription features across Google's broader ecosystem, particularly on its own Android platform.

Source: TechCrunch