For those who rely on dictation apps like Wispr Flow, Willow, or Typeless to manage emails and messages, the experience is often hindered by the limitations of phone microphones or AirPods. Seeking a more robust solution, I tested SpeakON, a dedicated hardware device owned by Notta. While the concept is innovative, the product currently suffers from significant form factor and platform constraints that prevent it from being a seamless productivity tool.
Design and Hardware Functionality
SpeakON is a compact, pebble-shaped device designed to attach magnetically to the back of an iPhone via MagSafe, mirroring the approach of Plaud’s AI notetaker. Weighing in at just 25 grams, it is remarkably lightweight and unobtrusive. The device pairs with a companion iOS app that functions as a keyboard, allowing for dictation across any app where a software keyboard is active.
To operate, you simply press and hold the button to record, releasing it when finished. The system automatically filters out filler words and can format output as lists. A primary advantage is that it utilizes its own onboard microphone rather than the iPhone’s, potentially saving battery life by keeping the phone’s mic inactive.
Performance Hurdles and AI Overreach
Despite the dedicated hardware, audio capture is inconsistent. The device struggles to pick up audio unless the phone is within a two-foot range, and ambient noise frequently degrades the quality. Furthermore, the AI-driven “attune” tone-changing feature often feels intrusive. It tends to force unnecessary edits, such as changing “Does this app work automatically?” to “Does this application operate automatically?” or replacing simple language with overly formal, clunky phrasing. Disabling this feature yielded significantly more natural results.
Software limitations also persist. I found myself wishing for the ability to toggle the SpeakON keyboard via a double-tap on the button or to use the device without manually switching keyboards. Compatibility is currently restricted to iOS, which severely limits its utility; integration with Mac would be a game-changer.
Battery Life and Pricing
SpeakON claims up to 10 hours of continuous use and 20 days of standby time. In practice, the standby duration was notably shorter, lasting only a few days. The device lacks an automatic shut-off feature after inactivity, which likely drains the battery prematurely. On the positive side, it charges from 0% to 100% in under an hour.
The device is priced at $129, including a plan for 5,000 words per week. For power users, there is a $12 monthly subscription for unlimited dictation. While SpeakON benefits from being an early mover in the dedicated dictation hardware space, it must urgently improve its software experience and expand platform compatibility to remain competitive against potential rivals.
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