Frequently Asked Questions - OPI Transcription
Getting Started
How do I start using Interpreter?
Click Start, share your screen with system audio enabled. That's it. No downloads, no installations. The transcription begins automatically.
Which browsers work?
Chrome and Edge on desktop. These browsers support the system audio capture required for transcription.
Do I need to install anything?
No. Interpreter runs entirely in your browser.
Is there a Chrome extension?
Yes. The Chrome extension captures tab or system audio without screen sharing. Install it from the Chrome Web Store for a simpler setup.
How It Works
What's the difference between Transcribe and Translate?
Transcribe converts speech to text in its original language. Translate does this plus automatically translates everything into your chosen language pair—both directions, in real-time.
How does two-way translation work?
When two people speak different languages, Interpreter shows the original speech on one side and the translation on the other. English to Spanish, Spanish to English—simultaneously.
Which languages are supported?
Over 60 languages on Polyglot including Spanish, Mandarin, Arabic, Vietnamese, Portuguese, French, German, Korean, Japanese, and Hindi. Polyglot Mini supports 100+ languages through Assisted mode. The system automatically detects which language is being spoken and handles code-switching.
What is Quick Lookup?
A mid-call dictionary. Type any word or phrase and get an instant translation with example sentences and alternative translations. It auto-dismisses after 15 seconds so it doesn't clutter your screen. Great for unfamiliar medical or legal terminology.
What are Term Mappings?
Your custom glossary. Save up to 50 word-to-translation pairs that always translate your way. For example, 'MRI' always becomes 'resonancia magnética'. Build your glossary over time as you encounter recurring terms.
What are the transcript layout options?
Two options: Paired shows both languages side-by-side. Interleaved stacks original and translation vertically. Switch between them anytime during a call.
What is Floating Notes?
A draggable, resizable notepad that stays on screen during your call. Jot down callback numbers, pharmacy info, or anything else without leaving the transcript view.
What are domain-specific modes?
Set your call topic to Medical, Legal, Finance, Insurance, Government, Education, or other domains. The transcription engine optimizes for that field's terminology, improving accuracy for specialized vocabulary.
Can it handle multiple speakers?
Yes. Different voices are identified and displayed with distinct visual styling, so you always know who said what.
For Interpreters
How does this help with medical interpreting?
Medication names, dosages, and medical terminology appear on screen as they're spoken. No more scrambling to write down complex terms while listening and interpreting.
Is it suitable for legal work?
Yes. For depositions, hearings, and attorney-client calls, every statement is captured accurately. Reference what was said without interrupting.
Does it replace the interpreter?
No. You're still the expert who understands context, nuance, and cultural subtleties. This eliminates note-taking so you can focus on what you do best.
Can I use this with my agency's platform?
Yes. Interpreter works with any platform that plays audio through your computer—Zoom, Teams, your agency's portal, or any browser-based phone system.
Is there a referral program?
Yes. Share your referral link with other interpreters. When they sign up and add funds, you both earn bonus credits.
Privacy & Security
Is my audio stored anywhere?
No. Audio streams through memory only—nothing is saved. When your session ends, the data is gone.
Is Interpreter HIPAA compliant?
Yes. No audio storage, no logs of conversation content, end-to-end encryption. Your medical calls stay confidential.
Are transcripts saved?
Transcripts exist only in your browser during the active session. Close the tab or stop, and they're gone.
Billing
How much does it cost?
Polyglot Mini is $0.20/hour, Polyglot is $0.35/hour. No subscriptions, no monthly fees. Pay only for what you use.
Is there a free trial?
Yes. Every new account receives 1 hour free. No credit card required.
What if I run out of funds mid-session?
The session pauses automatically. Add funds and resume right where you left off.
Are there volume discounts?
Yes. Credit packages from $10-$100 include 2-7% bonus credits. $10 (no bonus), $25 (+2%), $50 (+4%), $100 (+7%). Funds never expire.
Technical
Why do I need to share my screen?
Screen sharing with system audio is how browsers capture sound from other applications. We only listen to the audio—video is discarded immediately.
Does it work with Zoom, Teams, Meet?
Yes. Any application that plays audio through your computer works with Interpreter.
What's the latency?
Sub-second. Words appear almost as they're spoken. Fast enough to glance at while interpreting.
How accurate is the transcription?
Highly accurate for clear audio. The system handles accents, medical terminology, and fast speech well. You can set domain context (medical, legal, etc.) to improve accuracy for specific fields.
What if the speaker has an accent?
The system handles a wide range of accents. It's trained on diverse speech patterns and adapts to different speakers during the session.