Speech-to-text technology has a long history of development, starting from simple acoustic methods to modern systems based on artificial intelligence and deep learning. Its history began with the search for ways to mechanically convert speech acoustic signals into printed text.

History and Working Principle of the Technology

Speech-to-text technology has a long history of development, starting from simple acoustic methods to modern systems based on artificial intelligence and deep learning. Its history began with the search for ways to mechanically convert acoustic speech signals into printed text. The modern methods of speech-to-text translation involve the use of computer algorithms and artificial intelligence to analyze and interpret audio signals. Here are the key stages of operation:

1. Recording and capturing audio signal. Initially, it is recorded using a microphone or some other audio device.
2. Preprocessing of sound. The sound signal undergoes preprocessing to remove noise and background sounds, which helps improve speech recognition quality.
3. Speech recognition. Special algorithms are used to recognize phrases and words spoken in the audio. This process involves methods of analyzing speech characteristics, comparing with samples, and training models on large volumes of data.
4. Conversion to text. Recognized phrases and words are converted into a text format using computer algorithms and linguistic rules. This process includes segmenting speech into individual words, determining their meanings, and contextually combining them into sentences.
5. Correction and adaptation. The resulting text can be corrected and adapted to improve translation quality, correct errors, or meet specific user requirements.
6. Output of textual result. The final text is output to the user on a computer screen or another device in the form of a text document or through a special interface.

This process provides speech-to-text conversion and allows users to effectively utilize information contained in audio and video files in text format. With the advancement of machine learning technologies and neural networks, modern systems have become more accurate and adaptive to various recording conditions and individual pronunciation features.

Areas of Transcription Usage

Speech-to-text conversion is relevant both in everyday life and in professional activities:

• Students use transcription when writing essays, term papers, and diploma projects.
• Teachers use it to prepare educational materials.
• Writers use it during book and article writing (for quick recording of their ideas and thoughts on a dictaphone).
• Translators use it to translate large volumes of video and audio, reducing the time spent on manual speech transcription.
• Journalists use it for quick processing of interviews, speeches by different speakers, and official statements by officials.
• Business owners use speech-to-text conversion to record conferences, meetings with clients, and then analyze them.
• Sociologists need audio transcription when conducting various surveys among the population, to study their opinions and provide ready-made results.

Transcription is also an effective way to translate entertainment, educational, and other audio and video content into text.

Benefits of Speech-to-Text Conversion

Initially, transcription was perceived more as a way to ease the lives of people with limited abilities. However, in today's world, where visual content has become an integral part of life, it has become an essential attribute in information processing.

Optimization of Work Process

Such an option allows for the rapid creation of textual information without the need for manual input. This is especially useful in business meetings, educational institutions, or during presentations. If a person does not know touch typing, it is much faster and easier to dictate the text and then transcribe it using a specialized service. Speech-to-text conversion enhances productivity by enabling quick creation of necessary information, making notes, and jotting down ideas without the need to switch between different applications or devices. Everything can be accomplished on a single phone, without the need for computer equipment and text editors.

Improvement of Information Accessibility

Thanks to online transcribers, textual accompaniment for videos can be translated and subtitles created in any language in the world. They enhance intercultural communication and allow interaction in various spheres of life, from business to personal matters. Transcription technologies are especially important for the hearing impaired during travel: for interaction with drivers, airport employees, bus station staff, hotel personnel, etc. Converting speech into a text format allows understanding, for example, audio announcements in public transport, the deciphering of which is not always provided to passengers. It also facilitates guided tours, where each participant can choose to read rather than listen to what the guide is saying.

Enhancement of Accuracy and Quality of Text

Modern speech-to-text conversion technologies use machine learning algorithms and neural networks, which improve the accuracy and quality of transcription. This reduces the number of errors and increases user satisfaction. Such services work with different languages and can recognize various accents, taking into account playback speed and volume.

Accessibility for People with Disabilities

Speech transcription allows people with disabilities, such as the visually impaired or those with limited mobility, to communicate and interact more easily with computers and mobile devices. To write something to a friend, respond to work-related matters, or address health issues, it is sufficient to record one's voice and convert it into written form. This way, people with special needs are involved in full-fledged social and cultural life, contributing to their social integration.