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JeniferZOrdonez's avatar
JeniferZOrdonez
Copper Contributor
Jul 30, 2024

Microsoft Outlook for iOS and Android: The Dictation feature will retire in September 2024

Hi everyone,   Got an email from Microsoft message centre saying the Dictation feature will be retired in Sept 2024 for iOS and Android devices. However, according to the MC841218 Admins don't hav...
CharlyBarcelona's avatar
CharlyBarcelona
Copper Contributor
Jul 30, 2024
This decision is a mistake, and it goes against the accessibility effort that Microsoft did so far. I'm tetraplegic 😞
LaurieBeamish's avatar
LaurieBeamish
Brass Contributor
Jul 30, 2024

CharlyBarcelona 

I agree with Charly, this feature needs to be continued.  We have people who use this feature and will look to us to provide a solution.  

I did ask Copilot for alternatives and got the following but now we need to make sure that these are viable and true alternatives and do not in any way limit or lessen the accessibility to Outlook mobile...

Copilot

If you’re looking for alternatives to the Dictation feature in Outlook Mobile, here are a few options you can consider:

  1. Microsoft SwiftKey Keyboard: This keyboard app includes a voice typing feature that works across all apps, including Outlook. It’s available for both Android and iOS.

  2. Google Voice Typing: Available on Android devices, this feature can be used in any app where you can type, including Outlook.

  3. Apple’s Built-in Dictation: For iOS users, Apple’s built-in dictation feature can be used in any app, including Outlook. Just tap the microphone icon on the keyboard to start dictating.

  4. Dragon Anywhere: This is a powerful, professional-grade dictation app available for both Android and iOS. https://www.pcmag.com/picks/best-speech-to-text-apps-and-toolshttps://www.pcmag.com/picks/best-speech-to-text-apps-and-tools.

These alternatives should help you continue using voice-to-text functionality even after the Dictation feature in Outlook Mobile is retired.

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