Microsoft Trials AI-Powered Audio Transcription

Microsoft is testing the Intelligent Media Search feature in Windows, designed to convert media files into text using AI. This was discovered by a user known as Xeno.

These changes may already exist in other branches but in 27695…

“Intelligent media search” references have been added
Intelligent media search available
Search by spoken words in your indexed video or audio files. By clicking ‘I agree,’ you consent to scanning the media files…

— Xeno (@XenoPanther) August 30, 2024

The tool converts any spoken words in audio and video files on Windows OS into text. Access is available through an AI model.

With Intelligent Media Search, users can search for keywords in video or audio files. The tool can be useful for finding a specific chapter in an audiobook or information from a recorded meeting.

The feature is being tested by a limited group of Windows Insiders. Those wishing to gain access must consent to the download of the AI model and file analysis.

Intelligent Media Search somewhat resembles the controversial Recall feature. It records user actions on the computer and analyzes them with Microsoft algorithms to facilitate tasks such as sorting emails or finding files.

In June, the company withdrew the new feature from mass release following criticism from security experts.