A new AI application provides real-time transcription without the need to record audio or video.

      A note-taking application powered by AI, created by the Munich-based startup Bliro, may provide a more secure method for transcribing audio. Bliro employs natural language processing and machine learning algorithms to extract pertinent information from both in-person and virtual discussions, producing organized meeting notes and automating follow-up tasks. While this is fairly standard, Bliro distinguishes itself from popular transcription services like Otter, Fireflies, or Notta, as it does not operate as a bot that joins calls, records audio files, and then transcribes them. Instead, the platform performs real-time transcription, ensuring that no audio recordings of conversations are ever generated.

      This approach ensures adherence to stringent privacy and security standards, such as GDPR, according to the company. It also eliminates the need for consent from the other party for recording, thus simplifying the note-taking process.

      Maurice Schweitzer, co-founder of Bliro, informed TNW that this methodology removes the risks linked to audio and video recordings. “Transcripts do not contain personally identifiable components like voice or facial recognition, rendering it impossible to ascertain who said what with complete accuracy,” he explained. Moreover, for transcripts that include personal information like names, the company prioritizes compliance at every stage, Schweitzer added.

      Schweitzer co-founded Bliro in 2022, alongside data scientist Martin Thoma, as a privacy-focused transcription tool that emerged from AI research at the Technical University of Munich.

      In addition to avoiding the recording process, Bliro encrypts all data processed within the app and retains it on servers located in Frankfurt. The company does not share data with third parties, including its own employees, without explicit consent and also refrains from using user data to improve its AI models.

      “Numerous large companies steer clear of recording-based solutions due to privacy and compliance anxieties, making Bliro their only practical option,” stated Schweitzer.

      Bliro aims at customer-facing teams who utilize the app to automate meeting transcriptions, produce AI-generated summaries, and establish follow-up actions—all while upholding privacy and compliance. The application currently supports 15 languages.

      Today, Bliro revealed that it has secured €2.8 million in a funding round spearheaded by the German early-stage venture capital firm LEA Partners, with contributions from 468 Capital and Dutch seed investor Rockstart. Additionally, Bliro has launched its iOS app, which transcribes and analyzes in-person conversations.

      The newly acquired funding will facilitate accelerated product development and customer acquisition. Schweitzer noted that over 1,000 companies already utilize Bliro, including prominent German brands such as ImmoScout24, OMR, and Telefónica Germany.