I actually use my iPads dictate feature to transcribe the old letters I have. I just read them out loud and my iPad captures it. This approach works well for me and provides an added bonus as my husbands likes to listen in as I read these old family letters too.
Thanks for that hint. I never thought of using AI to decipher the words I couldn’t make out in the letters I’m transcribing. Now, I’ll get back to that project.
I assumed you used ChatGPT for this and good to know Gemini can do it too. Even if it’s wrong 10% of the time, that’s still less squinting and typing on my part.
what are the actual steps you used to ask Google gemini to transcribe a document? How did you upload them? I got the following message: "Unfortunately, Gemini currently cannot transcribe text directly from uploaded documents."
I took a photo of each page and uploaded them one at a time, asking for a transcription. So, it was transcribing from a photo, not a document. Maybe that’s the key?
This is fascinating! I have my concerns about AI, of course, but I think this is an amazing application for it. I've just finished transcribing an old letter but now I think I'll try this method and compare. Thank you!
I would never have thought to try this! What a great resource for biographers too— thanks for sharing.
I hope you have good luck and let us know what you think!
I actually use my iPads dictate feature to transcribe the old letters I have. I just read them out loud and my iPad captures it. This approach works well for me and provides an added bonus as my husbands likes to listen in as I read these old family letters too.
That is a fantastic idea! I had never thought of that!
I haven't had great luck with AI for handwritten stuff, but you've inspired me to try again. Thanks, and how awesome that you have those letters!
Thanks for that hint. I never thought of using AI to decipher the words I couldn’t make out in the letters I’m transcribing. Now, I’ll get back to that project.
Wow! What a goldmine you have! So interesting. Love the idea of using AI to translate. Great post!
Thanks!
I assumed you used ChatGPT for this and good to know Gemini can do it too. Even if it’s wrong 10% of the time, that’s still less squinting and typing on my part.
Right! Save the eyeballs! I used Gemini for this effort.
Super cool idea and you're so lucky to have these original letters!
What a wonderful idea. I have lots of letters and postcards that I will try as well. Interesting insights into her life and the times.
I agree, the tiny details about sounds or other ordinary daily things are fascinating.
Cool!
what are the actual steps you used to ask Google gemini to transcribe a document? How did you upload them? I got the following message: "Unfortunately, Gemini currently cannot transcribe text directly from uploaded documents."
I took a photo of each page and uploaded them one at a time, asking for a transcription. So, it was transcribing from a photo, not a document. Maybe that’s the key?
Trying this method! Seems to be thinking!!!
No luck. Will try something else
Bummer! It was Gemini, but I also often use ChatGPT… try that! I only use free versions. perplexity is a good one too!
wow this is amazing!
I was truly amazed myself! Very exciting!
This is fascinating! I have my concerns about AI, of course, but I think this is an amazing application for it. I've just finished transcribing an old letter but now I think I'll try this method and compare. Thank you!
Ooh, great idea! I hope the use of AI offers something for you!