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  • Writer's pictureJohn DaSilva

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Set Up Otter AI Transcription Software to Automatically Join and Transcribe Meetings

Image Credit - John DaSilva @ Action Items Lab

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Looking to get started with OtterAI and OtterPilot to automatically join and transcribe meetings? Follow our simple, step-by-step guide to quickly get started. And have a look at our security and privacy setting recommendations to help protect your information.

Table of Contents (click to expand)

Quick Start


Step 1: Adding the Otter AI's Chrome Extension:

Alright, let's begin by adding the Otter Chrome extension. Start by opening Google Chrome. Look for three vertical little dots in the top right corner and look for and click on 'Extensions', then 'Add Extensions'. Type 'Otter' into the search bar, select the Otter extension, and then hit 'Add extension' when the warning window shows up.






Step 2: Setting Up the Otter AI Extension:

Once you've got the extension, a message will pop up about recording and transcribing. Here's a good feature: you can sync Otter across your devices, linking your mobile, tablet and desktop for a smoother experience. I strongly suggest you enable it.




Step 3: Double-Checking the Otter AI Extension Setup:

Once you've set up the extension, navigate back to 'Manage Extensions' in Chrome to make sure Otter is all set and ready to go. Quick tip - You can also check this via the 'Apps' button in OtterAi.




Step 4: Otter AI Google Calendar Integration:

Now let's set the calendar integration. Head back to Otter, and, within 'Apps,' look to see if the correct email you want is listed. If it's not already there, just go ahead and add it by clicking 'Add.' You must do this in order for OtterPilot to auto join meetings. If not, you will need to add it manually for each meeting. Once set, head back to the Google Calendar home screen.



Now make sure 'Auto-join' is turned on under 'Meetings.'



OtterAI should now be all set up to autojoin and auto transcribe your meetings. Read on for important settings.


Recommended Settings for Otter AI


Step 5: Preferences in OtterPilot Settings:

Open up the account settings by clicking next to your name or the 'Apps' button. In 'Meetings', you'll want to check your default settings. This is where you decide who gets to see your notes and when. You can customize the OtterPilot settings like auto-join and email notifications here.



Here's how I've set mine up:


  • For recording calendar events, I go with 'Don't Share' by default. You never know when you'll need to edit notes or if someone drops out of the meeting last minute.

  • For file permission level, I set it to 'Viewer' for tighter security. And yes, I enable collaborators to edit meeting notes.

  • I also turn on OtterPilot to auto-join meetings and notify the meeting host about its joining – courtesy counts!

  • However, I keep off the options for sending live transcripts and Q&A as I prefer to review everything first.

  • I have the auto-capture for shared meeting content turned on.


It's all about striking the right balance between automation and control that works for you.


Step 6: Otter AI Recommended Notification Settings:

In the same settings menu, you can tailor your notification preferences. I personally lean towards minimal email notifications – just enough to keep things on track without cluttering my inbox.


Here's how I've set mine up:

  • I turn off email alerts for processed conversations and live notes.

  • Turn on push notifications on.

  • For meeting summaries, I use both push and email.

  • Everything else I turn off.


Step 7: Otter AI Security Recommendations

Under 'Security', consider setting up two-factor authentication. It's an extra step, but hey, better safe than sorry. You have a choice between an authentication app or SMS text message (US & Canada only).



Bonus: Otter AI Transcription Software Tips and Navigating the Challenges


How to Add OtterPilot Manually:

In case OtterPilot isn’t added to your meeting automatically (which will usually occur when you deny it entry to the meeting), you can add it manually in the website or App. Just copy the meeting Google Meet URL from your web browser web address bar or Google Calendar and paste it into Otter by navigating to “My Agenda”, and looking for the ‘+OtterPilot’ button or the 'Paste meeting URL to the record field,' which is usually on the top right. If you don't see it, select 'Home' from the main navigation menu on the left. It will then prompt you to paste the meeting URL in and it will join the meeting as a participant.


On mobile, you'll need to manually paste the meeting URL into Otter. This requires more effort, but it works.



Stay Alert with Otter AI Security Alerts:

Make sure you're on top of accepting security alerts from Otter AI. This is crucial for the meeting notes feature in your calendar.


Be Selective with Otter AI's Note Sharing Feature:

In the app, sharing settings need to be adjusted manually. So, be sure to enter your preferences into OtterAI to share your notes just the way you want and then remember to send the meetings notes after a meeting if you chose to do this manually.


Wrapping It Up


There you have it – your guide to making meetings a breeze with OtterAI. Adjust those settings to fit your style and security preferences, and watch how OtterPilot and OtterCopilot transforms your meeting game. Happy meeting!


Have more questions about using OtterAI? Check out the Otter AI FAQ article.

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