Google Drive Introduces Searchable Video Transcripts for Enhanced Accessibility

Google Drive is rolling out a major update that allows users to access and search video transcripts directly on the web. This new feature aims to improve media accessibility by making it easier to navigate and locate key moments in stored videos without the need for third-party transcription services.

With this update, users can generate and view transcripts for videos with captions. The transcript panel appears on the right side of the video player, displaying time-stamped captions that sync with the video playback. Users can also click on any part of the transcript to jump to a specific moment in the video, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

How to Access Video Transcripts in Google Drive

To use this feature, users must ensure that their videos have captions. A video with captions will have an active “CC” button in the player’s bottom right corner. Once captions are available, users can:

1. Open a video in Google Drive.
2. Click the gear icon at the bottom right to open settings.
3. Select the “Transcript” option to view the transcript in a side panel.
4. Use the “Search transcript” field to find specific words or phrases.
5. Click on any text within the transcript to jump directly to that part of the video.

Generating Captions for Transcripts

Users who need captions for their videos can generate them manually. To do this:

• Right-click the video file in Google Drive.
• Select “Manage caption tracks.”
• Click “Generate automatic captions” to create captions instantly.

Captions can also be added while watching a video by selecting the three-dot menu in the top right corner and managing caption tracks.

Who Can Access This Feature?

The rollout is gradually taking place and will be available to:

• All Google Workspace customers
• Google Workspace Individual subscribers
• Users with personal Google accounts

By eliminating the need for external transcription services, Google Drive’s new transcript feature simplifies video navigation and enhances content accessibility. Whether for business, education, or personal use, this update ensures users can efficiently find and follow key moments in their videos.

The feature is expected to be fully available in the coming weeks.