365 Word Dictation Issues

Question

After using 365 Dictate via Word for over a year with zero complications – for nearly two weeks I have been experiencing the same issues as this forum – thank you forum because I assumed it was an error my end.  I have noted that it works perfectly at off peaks hours as I have been working longer days currently. Thank you for the heads up for using Outlook but I have noticed that also this seems to be slowing down.  I have tried the quick repair, uninstall and reinstall.  I have downloaded Word to my handset, and this is also an option to dictate and upload to OneDrive, but it is obviously not as convenient and more time consuming.  I have tried the Windows speech (annoying) and Google dictate (also annoying).  I pay for a monthly 365 subscription.  It is of note my laptop is not compatible for Windows 11, but I am hoping that should not affect Windows 10 features.  Is this an issue that we will/can be rectified or is it recommended to start finding an alternative platform for fluidity. Any advice welcome.  Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

Hi @Nic,

Good day and thank you for posting in Microsoft Q&A Forum.

Based on your description, I really appreciate the time you've taken to investigate the behavior. To ensure we’ve covered everything, could you please help confirm a few additional details?

1- May I know the behavior is also occur in your Word Online?

2- You mentioned trying a Quick Repair, have you also performed an Online Repair? If not, I recommend proceeding with it, as it reinstalls the entire Office suite and can resolve deeper issues. You may also want to restart your PC afterward to ensure all changes take effect.

3- Could you please share the version of Word you're currently using? Also, have you tested the same behavior on a different device, such as a colleague’s or family member’s laptop?

4- May I know that you're using a microphone device to dictate word? If so, could you please share any troubleshooting steps you've already tried? Also, could you describe more clearly how the slowing down behavior occurs when it slows down?

Thank you for your time, I'm looking forward to your response.

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Answer 2

Many thanks for responding.

To confirm:

1. Yes, this is also happening on the online version;
2. Yes, I have also done the online repair (which uninstalled Microsoft 365) but thankfully I downloaded again at ease;
3. Version 2508 according to my account - I have tried on various devices.
4. I use my built in speaker on my laptop - it is not a speaker or internet issue.

NB for an example – I have used this product for over a year with no issues – since Friday 19 September, I have had delayed, overwritten and cancelled text (making it unusable).  Can I also make you aware this this defect seems to be happening at peak hours. I worked from 7am – 9am with no issues at all, after 9am, the same problem ensues.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Answer 3

You are not alone in seeing this. See https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/answers/questions/5564515/while-dictating-the-words-appear-then-disappear.

Several workarounds are suggested.