# Agent Instructions
This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com.

## Querying This Documentation
This site has an agentic ask interface you may use to query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the following URL with the `ask` and `goal` query parameters:

```
GET https://help.zipcaptions.app/index.md?ask=<question>&goal=<user_goal>
```

`ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
`goal` is what the user is ultimately trying to achieve, the reason they need the answer. Sharing it helps GitBook give you a better, more relevant answer. A goal is most helpful when it describes the outcome the user wants rather than restating the question. For example, with `ask=how do I create an API token`, a goal like `automate deployments from our CI pipeline` lets GitBook tailor the answer to that use case.

The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

---

# Zip Captions Help Site

Welcome to the Zip Captions help site. Use the menu to see all the pages, or choose a section below to get started.

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Getting Started with Zip Captions</strong></td><td>Discover how to get started with Zip Captions. This is a great place to start if you're new here!</td><td><a href="/getting-started/starting-captioning-with-zip-captions">Starting Captioning with Zip Captions</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Understanding the Settings</strong></td><td>Dive into customising Zip Captions and discover how you can make it your own.</td><td><a href="/settings/changing-settings">Changing Settings</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Live Translation</strong></td><td>Translate your live captions into 17 languages in real time directly on your device—with split bilingual views, Picture-in-Picture support, and broadcast translation.</td><td><a href="/translation/introducing-live-translation">Introducing Live Translation</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Sharing Captions With Others</strong></td><td>Zip Captions allows you to share your captions with others, and to follow others captions live. Discover how to set up and join a broadcast stream of captions. Discover how to add captions to your Live Streaming with OBS.</td><td><a href="/streaming-captions/broadcasting-your-captions-to-others">Broadcasting Your Captions to Others</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Known Issues</strong></td><td>Discover how to overcome some known issues, and things that are outside of our control.</td><td><a href="/known-issues/microphone-goes-to-sleep">Microphone Goes to Sleep</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Example Use Cases</strong></td><td>Looking for some more advanced use cases for Zip Captions? This is the spot.</td><td><a href="/example-use-cases/live-event-captioning">Live Event Captioning</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Change Log</strong></td><td>Check out our latest releases and what has changed.</td><td><a href="/change-log/zip-captions-online-and-pwa-changelog">Zip Captions Online &amp; PWA Changelog</a></td></tr></tbody></table>


# Starting Captioning with Zip Captions

Zip Captions works on any device which runs Google Chrome or Safari.

1. Open Zip Captions
2. Click on the Microphone in the top right corner

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FehAGZjdlCls4jCbvMBAi%2FMic_Button.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=6dff4dcc-ee68-4dab-8153-05f294f575fe" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

3. Accept the permissions

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FHeGsCfBTBJN2E7avXYkH%2FMic_Permission.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=5d34208c-691d-49dc-8d25-12d565691761" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

4. Start speaking and the captions will appear

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FqG1Edk62twPq9kNnMers%2FMic_Done.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=f1c783d8-de56-48a6-9349-fe633e25f4bb" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>


# Picture in Picture

Zip Captions includes a native **Picture in Picture (PiP)** mode that lets you pop your live captions into a floating, always-on-top window.

Whether you are taking notes in another program, attending a video call (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet), presenting slides, or browsing other tabs, Picture in Picture keeps your live captions visible above all other windows without having to resize or arrange your workspace.

{% hint style="info" %}
Picture in Picture is built directly into Zip Captions using the modern browser **Document Picture-in-Picture API**. No browser extensions or external tools are required!
{% endhint %}

***

## How to Use Picture in Picture

1. Open [Zip Captions](https://zipcaptions.app) and start captioning (or join a broadcast stream).
2. Click the **Picture in Picture (pop-out)** button in the top header bar (next to the microphone/stop button)—or open the **Quick Access** sidebar by clicking the **arrow button** on the right side of the screen and click the **Picture in Picture** button.
3. Your captions will pop out into a floating window that stays on top of other applications.
4. You can freely drag to reposition the window and drag its corners to resize it to your liking.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-254f1ce95dbbb90f772ab603ab05839d82f1f7dc%2FZip%20Captions%20Picture%20in%20Picture.gif?alt=media" alt="Picture in Picture in Zip Captions"><figcaption><p>Activating Picture in Picture from the Quick Access sidebar to pop out live captions into an always-on-top floating window</p></figcaption></figure>

### Exiting Picture in Picture

You can close the Picture in Picture window at any time using any of these methods:

* Click the **Picture in Picture (pop-in)** button in the top header bar or Quick Access sidebar again.
* Click the close button (**✕**) in the corner of the floating Picture-in-Picture window.

When closed, the caption stream automatically returns seamlessly to the main Zip Captions screen without interrupting your captioning session.

***

## Key Features

* **Always on Top:** The floating window stays above desktop applications, documents, presentation software, and video conferences.
* **Preserves Themes & Styles:** The floating window automatically adopts your selected Zip Captions theme (including dark modes and high-contrast settings), fonts, and text formatting.
* **Live Translation Support:** When [Live Translation](/translation/introducing-live-translation) is enabled, you can choose whether the Picture in Picture window displays **Translated only** (the default), **Original only**, or **Original and translated** (Split)—and switch between them, change the split direction (Stacked vs. Side by side), swap pane positions, or change the target language directly inside the floating PiP window ([learn more](/translation/display-layouts-and-controls#picture-in-picture-translation-controls)).
* **Real-Time Live Updates:** Captions continue streaming live into the floating window whether you are captioning locally with your microphone, using [AI Captions](/settings/ai-captions), or connected to a remote broadcast stream.
* **No Installation Required:** Works right inside supported browsers with zero extension downloads.

***

## Browser Compatibility

Picture in Picture utilizes the **Document Picture-in-Picture API**, which is supported in modern Chromium-based browsers:

| Browser                              | Supported |      Minimum Version     |
| ------------------------------------ | :-------: | :----------------------: |
| **Google Chrome** (Desktop)          |     ✅     |       Version 116+       |
| **Microsoft Edge** (Desktop)         |     ✅     |       Version 116+       |
| **Brave** / Other Chromium (Desktop) |     ✅     |       Version 116+       |
| **Safari** (macOS / iOS)             |     ❌     | Not supported by browser |
| **Mozilla Firefox**                  |     ❌     | Not supported by browser |

{% hint style="warning" %}
If you are using a browser that does not support the Document Picture-in-Picture API (such as Safari or Firefox), the Picture in Picture button will automatically be hidden from the Quick Access menu.
{% endhint %}

If you need overlay captions in browsers or workflows where Document Picture-in-Picture is not supported, check out the [Persistent Captions Extension](/chrome-extension/persistent-captions-extension).

***

## Tips for the Best Experience

* **Reduce On-Screen Results:** In the Quick Access settings, set **On Screen Results** to `0` or `1` so the floating window acts as a clean, compact 1- or 2-line caption ticker.
* **Adjust Text Size & Spacing:** Fine-tune the font size and line spacing in Quick Access settings before or during your session to ensure comfortable readability at a glance.
* **Dual-Monitor & Split Screen:** If you use multiple monitors or full-screen apps, place the floating window near your camera or document area so you can read captions while maintaining natural eye contact during video meetings.


# Cookies

We use cookies to save your settings, that’s all that we do with them. If you change your mind about cookies, you click on the image of the cookie at the bottom of the screen at any time. If you would like to decline, click the “Reject” button and we won’t ask again for 180 days.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FtLClk69AcRjmhkHToEuq%2FCookies.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=4fd1ff1f-7fb1-4d7b-b776-cbb646375036" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>


# Installing the Zip Captions App

Zip Captions can be installed on your device as a Progressive Web App. Depending on your browser and your device, you will need to follow some different steps.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Desktop (Chrome)" %}
**Using Google Chrome**

1. Go to <https://zipcaptions.app>
2. Click on the Install prompt which appears in the Omnibox

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2F6WBJHbiax9tFUJ6z18un%2FScreenshot%202024-04-06%20at%2012.29.08%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=6a0cb37c-917d-4ad0-a90f-d553ab6fd97e" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

3. Confirm that you want to install Zip Captions

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FbKMGjDSHBW4J6m3TuNAV%2FScreenshot%202024-04-06%20at%2012.30.48%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=02c4610a-11ad-4232-a6ef-c7dae4fc4a94" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

4. You can also install the Progressive Web App from the Menu
   {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Desktop (Safari)" %}
Safari does not support PWA installation on MacOS. If you need to run Zip Captions as a standalone app, please use Chrome.
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Android" %}
{% hint style="info" %}
Both of the methods below, install the same app. Installing from the Google Play Store may be easier for some users, however, if you encounter issues with speech recognition, then you should install the PWA version using Google Chrome.
{% endhint %}

**From the Google Play Store:**

Visit: <https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=app.zipcaptions.twa>

Click on Install

If you encounter any issues with the app, try the PWA option below.

***

**As a Progressive Web App (PWA):**

Before you begin, please ensure that you have the [Google Chrome](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.android.chrome\&hl=en_CA) browser installed on your device.

1. Visit [https://zipcaptions.app ](https://zipcaptions.app)in Chrome
2. Tap on the three dots\
   ![](https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FSlEYr4BN8IrGmEYfB6ys%2FScreenshot_20240820-124054.png?alt=media\&token=e8f089ba-7baa-43f4-8f5d-a1a00992ad10)
3. Choose **Add to Home Screen** from the menu\
   ![](https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FoGEfpd1vYdAikiX8Qex6%2FScreenshot_20240820-124219.png?alt=media\&token=8e74742f-1a66-4414-a7c7-cd8ba87d7e4a)
4. Choose **Install** from the prompt that appears\
   ![](https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FLCBdxDU5U0rgyQyop8sw%2FScreenshot_20240820-124227.png?alt=media\&token=25b72f97-35e7-4c83-a92c-8fea85814a33)
5. Zip Captions will now appear in your list of apps, and you can launch it from your app launcher on your Android device.
   {% endtab %}

{% tab title="iOS / iPad OS" %}
Coming Soon
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Microsoft Store" %}
You can install Zip Captions from the Microsoft Store on a computer running Windows 10 or 11.

[Install Now](https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/9pjn1f4bf2mh?hl=en-US\&gl=US)
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}


# Supported Browsers

We currently support the following browsers:

| Browser  | Works in Browser | Works as PWA |
| -------- | :--------------: | :----------: |
| Brave    |         ❌        |       ❌      |
| Chrome   |         ✅        |       ✅      |
| Chromium |         ❌        |       ❌      |
| Edge     |        🚧        |      ✅\*     |
| Firefox  |         ❌        |       ❌      |
| Opera    |         ❌        |       ❌      |
| Safari   |         ✅        |      🚧      |

{% hint style="warning" %}
This list is subject to change.
{% endhint %}

### Picture in Picture Support

The native [Picture in Picture](/getting-started/picture-in-picture) feature uses the W3C Document Picture-in-Picture API. This is supported on desktop versions of Google Chrome (v116+), Microsoft Edge (v116+), and other Chromium-based desktop browsers. It is currently not supported in Safari or Firefox.


# Improving Captioning Accuracy

There are a number of ways that you can improve the accuracy of captioning.

* Sign up for our [Advanced AI Captioning](/settings/ai-captions).
* Using Wireless Microphones ([Amazon](https://amzn.to/49wyQaK) affiliate link)
* Integrating with existing systems ([Phoank](/example-use-cases/in-the-classroom))
* Connecting a professional mixer with an USB interface

Connecting the external microphone to your computer allows better captioning quality.

You may also require:

* TRS to TRRS Splitter ([Amazon](https://amzn.to/43OA3sM) affiliate link)

  *This allows you to split the headphone jack on your laptop into separate Microphone and headphone/line jacks.*
* External Sound Card (Amazon affiliate links - [TRRS](https://amzn.to/3POel2n) | [Mic & Headphone](https://amzn.to/3VViqFA) | [Cheap](https://amzn.to/3vL7Vdt))

  *This will allow you better control especially when working with a TRS to TRRS splitter.*


# Changing Settings

You can easily change the settings for Zip Captions using our settings menu

**There are two ways to access the settings in Zip Captions:**

* [Via the Settings Menu](#via-the-settings-menu)
* [Via the Quick Access Settings](#via-the-quick-access-settings)

***

### Via the Settings Menu

1. Click on the hamburger menu ☰
2. Choose “Settings” from the list
3. Choose "**Look & Feel**"

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FzO3bYrs23aGmI3WO2RAB%2Fnext.zipcaptions.app_settings(Chromebook).png?alt=media&amp;token=8d19dffc-79c8-4aa1-8720-65226998aaad" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Here you can change the:

* **Theme** - change the colour settings
* **Spoken language** - choose the language being spoken from our [supported languages](/settings/languages)
* **Dialect** - choose a regional dialect for your spoken language
* **Interface language** - keep the app menus in the same language as your spoken language or choose a separate display language
* **Font**
* **Screenwake Setting** - stop your screen from going to sleep
* **On Screen Results** - the number of lines of captions shown
* **Text Size**
* **Line Spacing**

Once you are finished click on “Save and Close” at the bottom of the screen.

{% hint style="info" %}
In order to sync your settings, ensure that you are logged into your account, and follow [these instructions](/settings/sync-your-settings).
{% endhint %}

***

### Via the Quick Access Settings

The quick access settings can be accessed from the captioning screen.

{% hint style="danger" %}
Currently the quick settings do not sync with the settings sync and they must be set each time that you use Zip Captions.
{% endhint %}

1. Click on the arrow on the right hand side of the screen

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FbpPM3dgmwxoZ4fLf0HxE%2FScreenshot%202024-04-09%20at%2012.24.24%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=37054227-6624-4c95-8b04-49337d2da2ae" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

2. The mini settings menu will appear

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FnDUfyTAl4mXornyw4ysF%2FScreenshot%202024-04-09%20at%2012.27.10%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=48684257-4777-47f6-afa2-55037aef6e90" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Here you can change the:

* **Text Size** - the size of the text
* **Line Spacing** - the amount of space between each line
* **On Screen Results** - the number of lines of captions shown
* **Live Translation** - toggle on-device translation, choose display layouts (**Split**, **Translated Only**, **Original only**), change split orientation (**Stacked** or **Side by side**), configure Picture-in-Picture translation content, and change the target language ([learn more](/translation/display-layouts-and-controls#quick-access-translation-menu))
* **Text Flow** - move the text to the top or bottom of the page
* **Go Full Screen** - remove the header and footer
* **Picture in Picture** - float captions in a separate always-on-top window over other apps ([learn more](/getting-started/picture-in-picture))


# Transcripts

Zip Captions can save your broadcast session as a transcript.

Transcripts must be enabled by the user, on each device that they wish to use them on before they are available to use.

To do this:

1. Go to Settings
2. Click on the transcripts tab (or the icon on mobile)\
   ![](https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FIbIg7SReY39Ew8gnefDA%2FScreenshot%202024-09-02%20at%209.10.50%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media\&token=596fd8d6-ada8-47f3-92b2-3936c1eac262)
3. Turn on Transcripts by checking the box\
   ![](https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FouZs7SEFCWniK1QSufaG%2FScreenshot%202024-09-02%20at%209.10.56%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media\&token=018b4772-2a32-4421-af12-0c2826329767)
4. Click on Save

Transcripts are now available on the captioning screen.

Read more about Transcripts and how to use them [here](/transcriptions/introducing-transcripts).

{% hint style="danger" %}
Transcriptions are stored on each device locally.
{% endhint %}


# Sync Your Settings

Zip Captions can sync your settings against your stored settings on our cloud server. This allows you to store your preferred settings across multiple devices, or to restore your settings after a temporary change.

To get started:

1. Click on Login on the homepage.

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FajzEBMgT4KSHaCrl07yI%2Flogin.png?alt=media&amp;token=d6614aba-3310-4a20-ae94-572c2fed9caa" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
2. Choose the account that you want to login with from the menu

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2F5BNG0zi4UeZAXTiUxgzd%2Faccount_pick.png?alt=media&amp;token=278e3259-e5f5-494b-8157-c7c7cb14753a" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
3. You will now be redirected to your My Account page.

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FFqWWkCotUOWhNDomjjOW%2FMy%20Account.png?alt=media&amp;token=3064cb80-1bc1-4f28-986b-928fea64a8ee" alt="" width="386"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
4. Click on the three lines in the right corner, and choose **Settings**. Now choose **Sync**. Your first step is to save your current settings to the server. To do this, click on the ‘**Save Current**’ button.

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FEq4IH9lhBUQcE1bznUbc%2Fnext.zipcaptions.app_settings(Chromebook)%20(1).png?alt=media&amp;token=c493deaf-1f62-4b83-b3c2-309874bf4e78" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
5. You can now choose to apply these settings everywhere you log in if you wish by checking the box **"Use these settings everywhere I log in"**.

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2F1ciLyCsPryOGteqs2AMd%2Fnext.zipcaptions.app_settings(Chromebook)%20(2).png?alt=media&amp;token=39babf20-9c7e-4196-b7a9-bd73b0a95482" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
6. Once you make a change to your settings which differ to the ones that are saved on the server, you will see this tile in the sync tab. Here you can choose to toggle between the local settings, and server settings. Choosing to **save current** will overwrite your saved server settings with your current local ones, or choosing to **Apply Saved** will overwrite your local settings with the cloud based ones. Switching the **Local** or **Server** toggle will allow you to see the differences between your current and saved settings.

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FYgArH0LWaY49kmBw5u7i%2Fnext.zipcaptions.app_settings(Chromebook)%20(3).png?alt=media&amp;token=4d551780-9442-4389-90b5-66ccaa6d8bdb" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FNWJliCIh9ug36PFgYHHy%2FScreenshot%202024-04-13%20at%203.46.15%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=69ad3c99-9c55-4b01-bdfa-3313b7767c16" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

1. Click on the ‘Save Current’ button, this will save your current settings

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FgtdcUpyohIrndqY2xAL5%2Fsave.png?alt=media&amp;token=2b2da091-3e77-40a7-adae-3cc95e7d7155" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
2. Any changes to your settings will now give you this tile, where you can choose to toggle between the local settings, and server settings. Choosing to save current will overwrite your saved settings with your current local ones, or choosing to Apply Saved will overwrite your local settings with the cloud based ones.

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FadMkwJLPNc2q562mBvro%2Fstored.png?alt=media&amp;token=acfc9858-bb42-48eb-96d6-498d8902d79b" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="danger" %}
Any settings which you change in the quick access settings will not currently be synced
{% endhint %}


# Logging In

Logging into Zip Captions can be achieved by using a Google or Microsoft account.

To get started:

1. Click on Login on the homepage.

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FajzEBMgT4KSHaCrl07yI%2Flogin.png?alt=media&amp;token=d6614aba-3310-4a20-ae94-572c2fed9caa" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
2. Choose the account that you want to login with from the menu

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2F5BNG0zi4UeZAXTiUxgzd%2Faccount_pick.png?alt=media&amp;token=278e3259-e5f5-494b-8157-c7c7cb14753a" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Google" %}

1. Login to your Google Account

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FBVjl4uYAtKbwBtAZqiaf%2Fgoogle_login.png?alt=media&amp;token=855eb592-4e81-4703-9b1f-fcaaeda20806" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
2. You will be redirected to your My Account page.

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FFqWWkCotUOWhNDomjjOW%2FMy%20Account.png?alt=media&amp;token=3064cb80-1bc1-4f28-986b-928fea64a8ee" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="info" %}
If you support or follow us on Patreon, your patreon account will be linked to your Zip Captions profile.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="warning" %}
Your Patreon account must be registered with the same email address as you are logging into Zip Captions with. If you are using a different account, your Patreon information will not be shown in your account
{% endhint %}
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Microsoft" %}

1. Login to your Microsoft Account

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FuVHLZJlkt7K3NBcjabNC%2Fmicrosoft.png?alt=media&amp;token=464ebca8-14f6-438c-9d56-ba2cd714b356" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

2. You will be redirected to your My Account page

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FFqWWkCotUOWhNDomjjOW%2FMy%20Account.png?alt=media&amp;token=3064cb80-1bc1-4f28-986b-928fea64a8ee" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="info" %}
If you support or follow us on Patreon, your patreon account will be linked to your Zip Captions profile.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="warning" %}
Your Patreon account must be registered with the same email address as you are logging into Zip Captions with. If you are using a different account, your Patreon information will not be shown in your account
{% endhint %}
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}


# Languages

{% hint style="info" %}
By default, the interface language matches your **Spoken language**, or you can set your **Interface language** independently in **Settings → Look & Feel**.
{% endhint %}

We currently support the following spoken recognition and interface languages:

* English
* French
* Spanish
* German
* Italian
* Ukrainian
* Portuguese
* Indonesian
* Polish
* Arabic
* Mandarin Simplified / Traditional Chinese

To set your **Spoken language**, **Dialect**, or **Interface language** manually, you can do so by accessing the [Settings page](/settings/changing-settings).

{% hint style="success" %}
**Looking to translate your live captions into another language?**

Zip Captions supports real-time, on-device translation into 17 target languages! Check out our [**Live Translation guide**](/translation/introducing-live-translation) to learn how to set it up.
{% endhint %}

If you would like to see additional languages added you can [create community translations via GitHub](https://github.com/jptrsn/zip-captions?tab=readme-ov-file#languages)


# AI Captions

Zip Captions supports AI Cloud based captions which are more accurate than our regular captioning offering. We are currently using the Azure AI Speech to Text Service from Microsoft.

{% hint style="danger" %}
AI Captions are only available for paying subscribers on Patreon.

Join Zip Captions on Patreon [here](https://patreon.com/zipcaptions).

View the pricing structure for AI Captions [here](https://zipsolutions.org/pricing.html).
{% endhint %}

To get started with AI Captions you must first enable them in the settings.

1. Click on the **three lines**
2. Click on **Settings**
3. Click on the **Engine** option
4. Click on the drop down menu\ <img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2F6gH8io2PTOkhltZrQyOx%2FScreenshot%202025-02-18%20at%208.44.05%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=a1dbcf2e-5831-4f8a-b70f-07206d6a3139" alt="" data-size="original">
5. Choose **Azure Cognitive Services** from the drop down list\
   ![](https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FbjJMlDldqT8uTTUlnVle%2FScreenshot%202025-02-18%20at%208.44.41%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media\&token=1487ca7a-4309-44cf-958f-dddb3bc373d0)
6. You will see your current balance shown under the description, this is shown in hours and minutes. This is updated live as you use your tokens assigned.
7. You can improve the accuracy of your captioning by choosing a dialect for the chosen language. *(Language dialects are shown based on the language chosen for your interface and captioning language from the* [***Look & Feel***](https://zipcaptions.app/settings?tabIndex=0) *menu)*
8. Click **Save** to enable your captioning engine. The Save button will now be greyed out.\
   ![](https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FeES4i2qiHPaXihRJykiW%2FScreenshot%202025-02-18%20at%208.47.35%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media\&token=4b20f9f4-8e4a-4683-8342-df078eb45e6c)
9. You will now see the Microphone button has been converted to the AI Microphone\\

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FVMMwKsnChRhdMywYDZtw%2FScreenshot%202025-02-18%20at%208.47.51%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=e062bd2b-fb3a-4317-964b-a0aa1a48cc10" alt=""><figcaption><p>The microphone button shows the AI stars when the AI engine is enabled</p></figcaption></figure>
10. To switch back to the regular captioning engine, simply choose the **Browser** option from the drop down list and click on **Save**.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Bilingual Speech Recognition & Live Translation**

Certain Azure dialects—including **French (Canada)** (`fr-CA`), **Spanish (United States)** (`es-US`), and 16 **Arabic** dialects—natively recognize **both the selected language and English** within the same session! When combined with [Live Translation](/translation/broadcasting-and-obs-translation#bilingual-speech-recognition-with-azure-ai-captions), Zip Captions automatically detects which language was spoken in each phrase and routes it to the matching language pane.
{% endhint %}


# My Account

Your account page shows everything that we know about you, this includes:

* Your email address
* The providers that you have used to login with
* Your Patreon Tier status
* The ability to delete your account


# Deleting your Account

It is possible to delete your account if you wish to do so.

Go to > **menu ≡** > **My Account** > **Delete Account**

<div align="left"><figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FFqWWkCotUOWhNDomjjOW%2FMy%20Account.png?alt=media&amp;token=3064cb80-1bc1-4f28-986b-928fea64a8ee" alt="Menu screenshot showing the Delete my account button" width="386"><figcaption><p>Delete my Account</p></figcaption></figure></div>


# Broadcasting Your Captions to Others

{% hint style="info" %}
This page discusses streaming captions to others, if you want to access a stream, follow the instructions on [**this page**.](/streaming-captions/connecting-to-broadcast-captions)
{% endhint %}

Zip Captions allows you to share your captions with users on other devices. This is very useful in a number of situations, these can include:

* In a classroom, to send captions to students devices instead of displaying them on a central screen
* At a conference, where captions could be too small to read, broadcasting allows captions to be seen on participants screens
* In a setting where there is no screen available

In addition to allowing better access to captions, broadcasting allows more accurate captioning, by allowing users to access captions which were processed on a device near the speaker. External microphones which connect via Bluetooth or other wireless technologies can also enhance the accuracy.

{% hint style="info" %}
We offer two types of broadcasts:

[**Anonymous Broadcast**](#anonymous-broadcasting) - this produces a random session each time that you want to share your captions with others. You will need to share the session information each time.

[**Static Broadcast**](#static-broadcasting) - this gives you a personal session which remains the same every time you visit Zip Captions. This means that you can print out session information and it will remain the same for your users each time they use your stream

You are able to choose which type of broadcast you use each time you visit Zip Captions and start broadcasting.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="success" %}
**Broadcasting Translated Captions:** If you have [Live Translation](/translation/broadcasting-and-obs-translation#broadcasting-translated-captions-to-viewers) enabled while broadcasting, Zip Captions automatically shares both your original captions and your translated captions with your viewers—even if they are watching on a phone, tablet, Safari, or Firefox!
{% endhint %}

### Anonymous Broadcasting

1. Click on the broadcast button at the top of the screen (this looks like an antenna with circles coming from it)

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FajzEBMgT4KSHaCrl07yI%2Flogin.png?alt=media&amp;token=d6614aba-3310-4a20-ae94-572c2fed9caa" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

2. Agree to the privacy warning to confirm that you understand that you are going to share your data with others when you start broadcasting. Click on the **Share** tab.

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FKKZlmMmYYIzVffatX4tY%2Fbroadcast_warn.png?alt=media&amp;token=49b92ad7-4d1e-4375-b970-15feabcd0f6e" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="warning" %}
You can choose to use a **Join Code** for your session to ensure that only those that you invite are able to join the stream.

**Please note that Join Codes are not static, and will be randomly generated each time you create a session.**
{% endhint %}

2. As you are wanting to start an **Anonymous Broadcast**, make sure that this is chosen in the list. Decide if you wish to use a **Join Code** (see the box above) and then click on **Start Broadcast**.

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FkH0teJ6HSFUr2cFGCPUZ%2FAnon.png?alt=media&amp;token=2d057f34-2771-4722-a81e-80c0f706fdc0" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
3. The broadcast will now be started, you should share the Session ID and the Join code with the people who want to follow along as shown at the top of the screen.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FCwlFc7rkoch2zGLJTYKR%2Fzipcaptions.app_(Chromebook)%20(3).png?alt=media&amp;token=94aba6a8-4d27-49f0-a429-09a5f36508e5" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

5. To end your broadcast, click on the disconnect button in the top right hand corner of the screen, then confirm that you are ending your broadcast, this will disconnect all connected users.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2F4drmv6gI2blsiEA9ekPN%2Fzipcaptions.app_(Chromebook)%20(4).png?alt=media&amp;token=b12386bd-a5e5-43dd-8b4d-688a1f09d27b" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="info" %}
It's possible to share your information with others via a URL. You can find instructions on how to do that [here](/streaming-captions/connecting-via-a-url#sharing-a-stream-via-a-url).
{% endhint %}

### Static Broadcasting

Static broadcasts need to be configured before you begin. To get started go to the **settings** page, and click on the **Sharing** tab.

1. Click on the **Create a Session** button

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FdhrhBCAWcjsIvAAU6SR7%2Fstatic_start.png?alt=media&amp;token=3fae893f-f9bb-49a8-b970-6abe27cba861" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
2. You can now choose a **Broadcast ID** from the drop down list. This will be the Session ID that remains static and you can give to users each time. You can also choose here to Require a Join Code, or to make your session available to anonymous users. *Please note that the Join Codes are not static, and will change each time you start a broadcast with your session ID.*

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2F6INRwFX9mknZ8mEm1Qae%2Fstatic_set.png?alt=media&amp;token=206fde3a-b9ec-4a51-98e4-56e44c85cf63" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
3. Click on **Save and Close.** If you chose to use a Join code a locked padlock will appear, no join code, the padlock will appear unlocked. *The link to your static* [*session*](#user-content-fn-1)[^1] *is shown in the settings tile.*

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FtDrnbGtetKUS2uWmjjI4%2Fsecure.png?alt=media&amp;token=ddb83a10-8643-4f0b-88d7-b80eec471b38" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
4. Once you're ready to start, click on **Start Broadcast**
5. Next time you want to start a **Static Broadcast**, you can go to the sharing page following the instructions in the **Anonymous Broadcast** section, and choose your static Session ID from the list.

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FId8MDIF6ee0YqgFNgc8T%2Fstatic.png?alt=media&amp;token=13051d1f-f33a-4425-9f54-bc488dace540" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
6. You can come back and edit your Static Session at any point, by clicking on the **Edit** button on the **Sharing** tab of the **Settings** page. Here you can change the authentication of your session, as well as deleting your **Session ID** in case you need to regenerate a new session.

{% hint style="danger" %}
If you **delete** your session ID you cannot retrieve it, and you will be given the choice to choose a new one from the drop down list, the same as when you first setup sharing.
{% endhint %}

[^1]: You can share this with others so that they can join your session without having to type in the session ID. For more information see the help section on [**Connecting via a URL**](/streaming-captions/connecting-via-a-url)**.**


# Connecting to Broadcast Captions

{% hint style="info" %}
This page discusses connecting to a stream, if you want to broadcast your captions to others, follow the instructions on [**this page**](/streaming-captions/broadcasting-your-captions-to-others).
{% endhint %}

### Connecting via the Broadcast Interface

Zip Captions allows you to share your captions with users on other devices. This is very useful in a number of situations, these can include:

* In a classroom, to send captions to students devices instead of displaying them on a central screen
* At a conference, where captions could be too small to read, broadcasting allows captions to be seen on participants screens
* In a setting where there is no screen available

To join a broadcast stream:

1. Click on the broadcast button at the top of the screen (this looks like an antenna with circles coming from it)

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FajzEBMgT4KSHaCrl07yI%2Flogin.png?alt=media&amp;token=d6614aba-3310-4a20-ae94-572c2fed9caa" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
2. Agree to the privacy warning to confirm that you understand that you are going to share your data with others when you start broadcasting. If you are just joining a stream, you won't be sharing your data.

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FKKZlmMmYYIzVffatX4tY%2Fbroadcast_warn.png?alt=media&amp;token=49b92ad7-4d1e-4375-b970-15feabcd0f6e" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
3. Type in the **Session ID** that you have been provided with and click on **Connect**

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FY5ktwyUhWhvIZaGtkAP4%2Fbroadcast_join.png?alt=media&amp;token=42118685-5377-4b88-84e3-ff0d346106a8" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
4. If the session that you are joining requires a **Join Code** you will now be prompted to enter it, do so, and click on **Connect**.

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FE8lRVKaMmTe6ElTDBPXB%2Fbroadcast_code.png?alt=media&amp;token=7d3c3153-0667-44ec-be4f-c5f370fd31d3" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
5. The broadcast will now be shown on your screen.

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FSiaqktDBFpHe9iLm8dC3%2Fbroadcast_live.png?alt=media&amp;token=0d54f8df-f801-4770-a8dc-a0c0df1c6edc" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
6. When you are finished you can close the window or click **Leave Session**. If the person streaming the captions closes the broadcast, then your stream will stop.

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FVEN4WTDqkTZbYvqupX3V%2Fbroadcast_leave.png?alt=media&amp;token=2964c366-0338-48fe-89f7-93f4b9e2953c" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="info" %}
It's possible to connect to a stream via a URL. You can find instructions on how to do that [here](/streaming-captions/connecting-via-a-url#connecting-via-a-url).
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="success" %}
**Viewing Translated Broadcasts:** If the broadcaster has [Live Translation](/translation/broadcasting-and-obs-translation#broadcasting-translated-captions-to-viewers) active, you will see a **Show translation** button in the top right of the broadcast screen (on any device, including mobile phones and tablets). If you are watching from desktop Chrome (138+) or Edge (148+), you can also translate the broadcast into additional languages directly on your device!
{% endhint %}


# Captioning with OBS for Live Streams

### Using ZipCaptions with OBS to add Live Captions to your streams

{% hint style="info" %}
There is more information about other ways to caption using OBS in the [**Advanced**](/advanced/captioning-with-obs-browser-source) section.
{% endhint %}

To use this feature there are some steps that you will need to follow in both ZipCaptions, and in OBS. Before we begin you need to ensure that you have the following:

1. ZipCaptions open in a supported web browser
2. OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) [Download Here](https://obsproject.com/) for Windows, Mac or Linux

Once you have your pre-requisites out of the way you then need to set up OBS

1. Open OBS and click on the **Tools** menu and then **Web Socket Server Settings**

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2F5TtiId30r4H7amH0LteE%2Fobs_tools.png?alt=media&amp;token=9b7724af-1972-4b9f-ad6c-7cbad8e58a6f" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
2. In the window which opens, check the box **Enable WebSocket Server** set a port which you can use (the default is **4455** and should be fine), and click **Generate Password**.

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2Fru5vfb2XCwjzxWdRP6Pq%2Fobs_socket_setup.png?alt=media&amp;token=be3c60e7-f677-41ad-8827-f3602c967cbe" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
3. Now click on the **Show Connect Info** button and copy the *Password* shown in the box by clicking on the **Copy** button next to it.

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FJP0jk87oKTSXeNNP5uei%2Fobs_password.png?alt=media&amp;token=b92c289b-bdc0-42f4-829b-10da4ea8e3e0" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
4. Now close the box and go to your browser window with ZipCaptions in it. Click on the **hamburger** menu and choose **settings**.

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FajzEBMgT4KSHaCrl07yI%2Flogin.png?alt=media&amp;token=d6614aba-3310-4a20-ae94-572c2fed9caa" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
5. Click on the OBS Tab on the settings page

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FSZiglx6WeCy18oX7qXFQ%2Fobs_start.png?alt=media&amp;token=47ccdd0c-3771-4f01-b0e7-e3be17c61891" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
6. Set the **Server IP** to *localhost* (unless you’re running OBS on a different computer to ZipCaptions, in which case you would enter the IP address of the computer running OBS), set the **Server Port** to *4455* (unless you chose a different port in the setup in OBS, in which case you should enter the port you chose), and finally paste the password that you copied from OBS into the **Password** box and click on the **Connect** button. *The Captioning will now automatically start*.

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FsMQ5AwPcesd7O2IrjXau%2Fnext.zipcaptions.app_settings(Chromebook)%20(5).png?alt=media&amp;token=91130982-6d2b-4ab4-974e-d6488a69930f" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
7. You will now see at the top of the screen that OBS is connected. The OBS icon will now appear at the top of the screen with a blue dot. This icon can be clicked on to control the session.

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FDBoMeYsAhXWXIeAzizEl%2Fobs_connected.png?alt=media&amp;token=81e3ff24-e407-4091-aaaa-277001dd83f8" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
8. Click on the OBS icon in the top right, and choose **Listen**

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FN9Ku1hPWcCIadXZzwUOm%2Fobs_listen.png?alt=media&amp;token=6d6c72b9-0a55-476a-a9ef-ea66f2102686" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
9. This takes you to the captioning screen

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FageNiFvV9uSYdSqSMOz3%2Fobs_ready.png?alt=media&amp;token=b29afdcf-1776-4d76-a48f-a825dc02b7dc" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
10. Leave ZipCaptions open and head back into OBS, you can now start your stream and the captions will be sent to the stream from OBS.

Depending on the service that you are using you may need to tell it that you are sending captions with your stream. For example, YouTube Live requires you to check the Captions box before you start your stream.

The captions that ZipCaptions outputs are in the 608 Format. You can see an example of the settings required for YouTube Live below:

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FVgtGS8UYyXCRWa7wvrLF%2Fyoutube_live_settings.png?alt=media&amp;token=a7b52032-a11b-4fb3-8317-9f5e4de1d849" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

To disconnect from OBS, click on the OBS icon in Zip Captions and choose **disconnect** or, go to settings and choose **disconnect** under the OBS tab. You can reconnect from the same menu once you have disconnected as long as OBS is still open and the Websocket settings have not changed.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Want to send translated captions to OBS?**

When [Live Translation](/translation/broadcasting-and-obs-translation#sending-translated-captions-to-obs-studio) is enabled, you can configure **What OBS receives** (**Original captions** or **Translated captions**) right inside **Settings → OBS Studio**.
{% endhint %}


# Connecting via a URL

You can connect to a Broadcast via a URL and also share a broadcast via a URL

* [Connecting via a URL](#connecting-via-a-url)
* [Sharing via a URL](#sharing-a-stream-via-a-url)

***

### Connecting via a URL

It is possible to connect to a stream via a URL

In the URL box in the browser enter the following URL, replacing the placeholders with the information from your stream:

```
https://zipcaptions.app/stream/[SESSIONID]?joinCode=[JOINCODE]
```

Example:

```
https://zipcaptions.app/stream/9q4r-j2jk?joinCode=ewqe
```

***

### Sharing a Stream via a URL

It is possible to share the connection information for your broadcast via a URL.

To share a URL, replace the placeholders below with the information from your stream page:

```
https://zipcaptions.app/stream/[SESSIONID]?joinCode=[JOINCODE]
```

Example:

```
https://zipcaptions.app/stream/9q4r-j2jk?joinCode=ewqe
```

{% hint style="success" %}
If you have an **anonymous** stream, or you only want certain people to join your link, you can share the URL without the join code parameter. Using the above example:

```
https://zipcaptions.app/stream/9q4r-j2jk
```

{% endhint %}

{% hint style="info" %}
It's possible to now take this URL and share it as a QR code to make it easy for others to join to your broadcast stream. <https://me-qr.com/> provides a lot of customization.
{% endhint %}

***

### Finding your Stream Link from the Settings Page

Your Stream URL will be shown in the **Sharing** tab on the **Settings** page.


# Introducing Transcripts

{% hint style="info" %}
You must enable Transcripts in the settings, on each device that you wish to use them on, before you can use them.

You can read how to do this [here](/settings/transcripts).
{% endhint %}

Transcripts allow you to have a copy of your captioning session once the session has ended.

Transcripts can be useful for:

* Taking notes
* Being able to read back over what has happened or been discussed
* To attach to notes that have been given to you so that you can read the instruction as well as the notes
* Adding captions to videos
* And many more uses...

{% hint style="warning" %}
It is important that you inform others that they will be recorded when using Transcripts, as their voice will be turned into text and saved.
{% endhint %}

Zip Captions Transcripts will also allow you to export them into the following file formats:

* SRT (A subtitle file format which can be used with video playback sites like YouTube and Vimeo)
* TXT (A plain text format, which can be opened with your text editor)
* VTT (A format similar to SRT but more customisable)

{% hint style="info" %}
The captioning engine used for transcripts is the same as the one for captions. Transcripts do not use any additional tokens for AI Captioning.
{% endhint %}

{% embed url="<https://youtu.be/sF7n1X1oIFY>" %}

{% embed url="<https://youtu.be/r1RNyEJa3d8>" %}


# Getting Started with Transcripts

{% hint style="info" %}
You must enable Transcripts in the settings, before you can use them.

You can read how to do this [here](/settings/transcripts).
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="warning" %}
Transcripts are only stored locally on your device, they are not synced to the cloud. This means that you will only be able to see transcripts on the device that you created them on. If you want to use them on other devices you can export them using the instructions [here](/transcriptions/exporting-your-transcripts).
{% endhint %}

1. When you open the captioning window you will now see a Transcription Enabled notification

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FhNdpfjoPAAoxm62IuZew%2FScreenshot%202024-09-02%20at%209.15.51%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=86d72518-ddb8-490b-a5d7-0079ec1e0d24" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

This session is now being captioned.

2. Once you have finished the captioning session, click on the Microphone to end captioning
3. Click on the three lines ☰
4. Click on Transcripts\
   ![](https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FcrQLzpOgzZ9KcStLvhbk%2FScreenshot%202024-09-02%20at%209.11.13%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media\&token=5d4bddda-a45a-4c66-9950-e4da1fd391f0)
5. The Transcripts screen will now appear, this will show all of your locally stored transcripts\\

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FiyqrQC87TPt9Y9ldRkhb%2FScreenshot%202024-09-02%20at%209.16.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=85213b98-2fca-4cf2-ab06-cd43f935f005" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
6. Clicking on the transcript will allow you to view it


# Editing Transcript

You can edit the following aspects of your transcripts:

* The title
* The description
* Any segment of text from your transcript (in the Individual Transcript View)

There are two ways to edit this information:

* From the transcripts screen
* From the individual transcription view

<details>

<summary>From the Transcripts Screen</summary>

1. Click on the Pencil next to the transcript that you wish to edit\
   \\

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FiyqrQC87TPt9Y9ldRkhb%2FScreenshot%202024-09-02%20at%209.16.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=85213b98-2fca-4cf2-ab06-cd43f935f005" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
2. Now enter the information\
   ![](https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FyZq88BpeUhoeOvs03PHO%2FScreenshot%202024-09-02%20at%209.16.20%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media\&token=1f2a4758-2296-477a-a876-ae9fe6ff77be)
3. Click **Save and Close**

</details>

<details>

<summary>From the Individual Transcript View</summary>

1. Open the transcript by clicking on it from the Transcripts Screen
2. Click on the **Edit** toggle at the top of the screen\\

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FnX2RuCKIXci4BrMfB3Yk%2FScreenshot%202024-09-02%20at%209.17.09%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=d08d1f0b-2f10-407c-921c-cf640e932d84" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
3. Add in your title by clicking on the title, and your description, by click in the description pane.
4. You can also click on any line from your transcript to edit that segment.\
   ![](https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FeJgvX9pTGF7DBCN1VeP5%2FScreenshot%202024-09-02%20at%2010.09.01%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media\&token=ceec5ea1-ca7e-4784-831a-fe886bf8b4cd)
5. Click Save once you are done editing that segment
6. Once you are finished, turn off the edit toggle

</details>


# Advanced Transcript Tips

### Transcription Tip # 1 - Toggling Views

{% embed url="<https://youtu.be/JJ5wA5hMUtE>" %}

### Transcription Tip # 2 - Editing Captions

{% embed url="<https://youtu.be/VUY1oPrprBU>" %}


# Exporting your Transcripts

Zip Captions Transcripts will allow you to export your transcripts into the following file formats:

* SRT (A subtitle file format which can be used with video playback sites like YouTube and Vimeo)
* TXT (A plain text format, which can be opened with your text editor)
* VTT (A format similar to SRT but more customizable)

To get started:

1. Visit the transcript that you wish to edit by click on it from the [transcriptions page](https://zipcaptions.app/user/transcripts).
2. Click on the file icon in the top right corner\
   ![](https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2F62WuhJFykNapx0ZGPEJD%2FScreenshot%202024-09-02%20at%209.17.23%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media\&token=aff66c11-b368-4f1a-a5f6-e937dacf8af0)
3. Choose the file format in which you want to export your file
4. The file will be downloaded to your device


# Using Transcripts with Generative AI

Using your captioning transcripts with Generative Artificial Intelligence can allow you to produce summaries of meetings, classes and presentations. Discover how to get started with this.

{% hint style="info" %}
The following sections maybe useful before starting with this:

* [Getting Started with Transcripts](/transcriptions/getting-started-with-transcripts)
* [Exporting your Transcript](/transcriptions/exporting-your-transcripts)
  {% endhint %}

{% hint style="info" %}
For this example we are going to use [Google's Notebook LM](https://notebooklm.google.com) tool, but Chat GPT, Microsoft Co-Pilot, Claude and Gemini could all be used to generate similar results.
{% endhint %}

{% embed url="<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvcumT7QI1A>" %}


# Introducing Live Translation

Zip Captions includes a built-in **Live Translation** feature that translates your live captions into another language in real time—**entirely on your device**.

Whether you are presenting to a multilingual audience, teaching in a diverse classroom, hosting an international event, or streaming live captions to viewers around the world, Live Translation lets you display translated captions alongside—or in place of—the original spoken language.

{% hint style="info" %}
**100% On-Device Translation & Free to Use**

Live Translation uses Chrome's built-in on-device language models (via the web platform **Translator API**). Because translation runs directly on your computer, **no text is sent to any third-party translation server**, and there are no per-character fees, API keys, or subscriptions required for translation.
{% endhint %}

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-2b10d9e965c945cbf082e20287b10b783bc10c37%2Ftranslation-captions-stacked.png?alt=media" alt="Live Translation in Split (Bilingual) Stacked View"><figcaption><p>Live captions displaying both the original spoken language (English) and the real-time translation (French) in Split (Bilingual) view</p></figcaption></figure>

{% embed url="<https://youtu.be/WVt2UjV5LFk>" %}

***

## Key Features

* **Private, On-Device AI Translation:** Each language pair uses a compact, built-in translation model downloaded once by your browser and run locally on your machine.
* **Works with Any Speech Engine:** Compatible with both the free **Browser** speech recognition engine and [AI Captions (Microsoft Azure Cognitive Services)](/settings/ai-captions).
* **Flexible Display Layouts:** Choose between **Split (Bilingual)** (stacked top-and-bottom or side-by-side), **Translated Only**, or **Original Only** (which keeps translating in the background for broadcast viewers while showing only the spoken language on your screen).
* **Supported Across All Views:** Works seamlessly in standard view, Full Screen, [Picture in Picture (PiP)](/getting-started/picture-in-picture), [Broadcast Streams](/translation/broadcasting-and-obs-translation), and [OBS Studio](/translation/broadcasting-and-obs-translation#sending-translated-captions-to-obs-studio).
* **Broadcast to Any Device (Including Mobile):** When you broadcast a session with Live Translation enabled, your translated captions are sent directly to viewers—so viewers on phones, tablets, Safari, or Firefox can read translated captions without needing on-device translation support themselves.
* **Azure Native Bilingual Recognition:** When using [AI Captions](/settings/ai-captions) with a bilingual dialect such as **French (Canada)** (`fr-CA`), **Spanish (United States)** (`es-US`), or supported **Arabic** locales, Zip Captions automatically detects whether each spoken phrase is in English or the primary language and routes it to the appropriate language pane.

***

## Browser & Device Requirements

Because on-device translation relies on the browser's built-in **Translator API**, creating translations on your own device requires a supported **desktop** Chromium browser:

| Platform / Browser                   | On-Device Translation |     Viewing Broadcast Translations     |
| ------------------------------------ | :-------------------: | :------------------------------------: |
| **Google Chrome** (Desktop)          |    ✅ (Version 138+)   |                    ✅                   |
| **Microsoft Edge** (Desktop)         |    ✅ (Version 148+)   |                    ✅                   |
| **Safari** (macOS / iOS)             |           ❌           | ✅ (Receives broadcaster's translation) |
| **Mozilla Firefox**                  |           ❌           | ✅ (Receives broadcaster's translation) |
| **Mobile & Tablets** (iOS / Android) |           ❌           | ✅ (Receives broadcaster's translation) |

{% hint style="warning" %}
On mobile devices, tablets, or browsers that do not support the Chrome Translator API, the **Live Translation** toggle in Settings will be disabled with an explanation. However, those devices can still **receive and view translated captions** when joining a [Broadcast Stream](/translation/broadcasting-and-obs-translation) hosted by someone who has translation enabled!

If you are using a supported version of desktop Chrome or Edge and the Translator API is not yet active, you may need to enable `chrome://flags/#translation-api` in your browser.
{% endhint %}

***

## Supported Languages

### Spoken Languages (Source)

You can speak in any of Zip Captions' 11 supported recognition languages (plus regional dialects):

* **English** (`en`)
* **French** (`fr`)
* **Spanish** (`es`)
* **German** (`de`)
* **Italian** (`it`)
* **Portuguese** (`pt`)
* **Indonesian** (`id`)
* **Polish** (`pl`)
* **Ukrainian** (`uk`)
* **Arabic** (`ar`)
* **Mandarin Simplified / Traditional Chinese** (`zh`)

{% hint style="info" %}
Your **Spoken language** (used for speech recognition) can now be configured independently from your **Interface language** in **Settings → Look & Feel**. By default, the interface language is set to **Same as spoken language**.
{% endhint %}

### Translation Languages (Target)

You can translate your captions into any of the following **17 target languages**:

* **Arabic** (العربية)
* **Chinese** (中文)
* **Dutch** (Nederlands)
* **English**
* **French** (Français)
* **German** (Deutsch)
* **Hindi** (हिन्दी)
* **Italian** (Italiano)
* **Japanese** (日本語)
* **Korean** (한국어)
* **Polish** (Polski)
* **Portuguese** (Português)
* **Russian** (Русский)
* **Spanish** (Español)
* **Turkish** (Türkçe)
* **Ukrainian** (Українська)
* **Vietnamese** (Tiếng Việt)

Right-to-left (RTL) languages such as **Arabic** automatically display with proper right-to-left text alignment and directionality.

***

## Privacy & Transcripts

* **On-Device Translation vs. Speech Recognition:** Translation runs 100% locally on your device using Chrome's built-in language models, so no translation service ever receives your text. Keep in mind that speech recognition is separate—depending on the speech engine you select (Browser or Azure AI), audio may still be processed in the cloud to generate the initial captions.
* **Transcripts Store Original Text Only:** When [Transcripts](/transcriptions/introducing-transcripts) are enabled, Zip Captions always records the original spoken language text in your saved transcript.
* **Saved Locally on Your Device:** Both your downloaded Chrome language models and your Live Translation preferences (enabled state, target language, display layout, split orientation, pane order, and Picture in Picture content mode) are saved locally in your browser on each device.


# Setting Up Live Translation

Before starting a translated captioning session, we recommend enabling **Live Translation** and downloading the on-device language model for your chosen language pair in Settings.

***

## Step-by-Step Setup

1. Click on the **hamburger menu (☰)** in the top right corner of Zip Captions and select **Settings**.
2. Click on the **Translation** tab in the settings navigation bar.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-108160896ade8726727046af2fa25a9b73b971e1%2Ftranslation-settings-tab.png?alt=media" alt="Opening the Translation tab in Settings"><figcaption><p>Select the Translation tab from the Settings menu</p></figcaption></figure>

3. By default, **Live Translation** is set to **Translation Disabled**. Notice the **Chrome On-Device AI Status** card on the right, which shows the current status of the on-device translation model.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-7f2a5e53ffefcfa0d5c5a98b0030dcee422ab2ee%2Ftranslation-settings-disabled.png?alt=media" alt="Live Translation disabled in Settings"><figcaption><p>The Translation settings tab when Live Translation is disabled</p></figcaption></figure>

4. Click the toggle switch next to **Translation Disabled** to turn it on (**Translation Enabled**). Once enabled, the language and layout options will appear:
   * **Spoken language:** Select the language you (or the speaker) will be speaking.
   * **Dialect:** Choose a regional dialect for improved speech recognition accuracy (or leave as **Generic**).
   * **Translate To:** Select the target language you want your captions translated into.
   * **Caption Display Layout:** Choose how captions should appear on your screen ([Split (Bilingual), Translated Only, or Original only](/translation/display-layouts-and-controls)).

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-b0616beea7d560b1044704aa0ba669a1bdadc14f%2Ftranslation-settings-download-required.png?alt=media" alt="Live Translation enabled with Download Required status"><figcaption><p>Enabling Live Translation reveals language selection, display layout options, and the Download Translation Model button</p></figcaption></figure>

5. If this is your first time using the selected language pair, the **Chrome On-Device AI Status** card will display a yellow **Download Required** badge:
   * You can click **Download Translation Model** right in Settings to download the model immediately and watch the progress bar reach **Model Ready (On-Device)**, **or**
   * Simply click **Save and Close**—saving your settings with Live Translation enabled automatically starts downloading and warming up the translation model in the background.
6. Click the **microphone button (Listen)** to start captioning. Your spoken words will now be translated in real time into your chosen language.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-a64a7ea875643648999658c8c0bda3f65b17f104%2Ftranslation-settings-model-ready-split.png?alt=media" alt="Model Ready (On-Device) status in Translation settings"><figcaption><p>When the language model is downloaded and ready, the status badge turns green: Model Ready (On-Device)</p></figcaption></figure>

***

## Understanding Translation Models

Each language pair (for example, *English → French* or *English → German*) uses its own dedicated on-device translation model:

* **One-Time Download per Pair:** Chrome downloads the translation model the first time you prepare or use a specific language pair. Subsequent sessions using the same language pair will be ready immediately (`Model Ready (On-Device)`).
* **Switching Languages & Downloading Mid-Session:** If you switch to a new target language during a live session (using the **Quick Access** menu or the on-screen language dropdown) that hasn't been downloaded yet, a centered **Download Translation Model** button will appear right inside the translated caption pane. Click it to download the new model with a live progress indicator—as soon as it finishes downloading, your live captions and recent history will immediately translate into the new language without leaving your session.
* **Managed by Chrome:** Chrome automatically manages downloaded translation models on your computer and may remove unused models if your device runs low on disk space. You can learn more in [Chrome's built-in AI model management documentation](https://developer.chrome.com/docs/ai/understand-built-in-model-management).

***

## Changing the Spoken Language Resets Translation

{% hint style="info" %}
If you have Live Translation enabled and later change your base **Spoken language** outside of the Translation tab (for example, in **Settings → Look & Feel**), Zip Captions will automatically turn **Live Translation off** and display a brief notification banner:

*"You changed the spoken language, so translation was turned off. Turn it on again to choose a new translation language."*

This prevents your session from accidentally translating from the wrong source language. Simply re-enable Live Translation and confirm your desired target language. (Switching between regional **dialects** of the same language—such as `en-US` to `en-GB`—will **not** turn translation off.)
{% endhint %}


# Display Layouts & Controls

Zip Captions gives you complete control over how original and translated captions are arranged on your screen, in [Picture in Picture (PiP)](#picture-in-picture-translation-controls), and via the **Quick Access** sidebar.

***

## Caption Display Layouts

You can choose from three **Caption Display Layouts** in **Settings → Translation** (or change them on the fly during a session):

### 1. Split (Bilingual)

Displays both the **original spoken captions** and the **translated captions** simultaneously in two separate panes. Each line is aligned segment-by-segment so your audience can follow both languages together. While a new phrase is being translated, a subtle pulsing ellipsis (`…`) placeholder keeps both panes aligned until the translation arrives.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-a64a7ea875643648999658c8c0bda3f65b17f104%2Ftranslation-settings-model-ready-split.png?alt=media" alt="Split (Bilingual) selected in Translation Settings"><figcaption><p>Selecting Split (Bilingual) in Settings → Translation</p></figcaption></figure>

### 2. Translated Only

Displays a single full-screen pane containing **only the translated captions**. This is ideal when your screen or projector is dedicated exclusively to an audience reading the target language.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-dd7615f130c1d35239333e4fd2b58fe1b285f2ad%2Ftranslation-settings-translated-only.png?alt=media" alt="Translated Only selected in Translation Settings"><figcaption><p>Selecting Translated Only in Settings → Translation</p></figcaption></figure>

### 3. Original Only

Displays **only the spoken language** on your local screen while keeping Live Translation running in the background.

* **Why use Original Only?** If you are hosting a [Broadcast Stream](/translation/broadcasting-and-obs-translation) or using [Picture in Picture](#picture-in-picture-translation-controls), you may want your own main monitor to show only the language you are speaking, while remote broadcast viewers (such as attendees on phones or tablets) or your floating PiP window still receive the live translation.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-1cf1e0bee14ab80077d13a70f6348c8305701d56%2Ftranslation-settings-original-only.png?alt=media" alt="Original only selected in Translation Settings"><figcaption><p>Selecting Original only in Settings → Translation</p></figcaption></figure>

***

## Split Orientations: Stacked vs. Side by Side

When using **Split (Bilingual)** mode, you can arrange the two language panes in either orientation:

### Stacked (Top & Bottom)

The default split layout places one language pane on top and the other on the bottom, separated by a horizontal divider line. This gives wide horizontal reading lines for both languages.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-2b10d9e965c945cbf082e20287b10b783bc10c37%2Ftranslation-captions-stacked.png?alt=media" alt="Split (Bilingual) in Stacked orientation"><figcaption><p>Stacked orientation: Original captions on top and translated captions on the bottom</p></figcaption></figure>

### Side by Side (Left & Right)

Places the two language panes next to each other in two vertical columns separated by a vertical divider line.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-bbe6b6fd07fcb750d70863b0dcf007566a9c0a26%2Ftranslation-captions-side-by-side.png?alt=media" alt="Split (Bilingual) in Side by side orientation"><figcaption><p>Side by side orientation: Original captions on the left and translated captions on the right</p></figcaption></figure>

***

## On-Screen Divider & Language Controls

When you move your mouse or interact with the captioning screen in **Split (Bilingual)** or **Translated Only** mode, subtle on-screen controls appear and automatically fade out after 1 second of inactivity:

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-48fded5d1a1cf89bcd4b6b863b1ef30a19cc599b%2Ftranslation-captions-divider-controls.png?alt=media" alt="On-screen translation language picker and divider controls"><figcaption><p>On-screen controls: Target language dropdown on the left, and Split Orientation / Swap Panes buttons on the divider</p></figcaption></figure>

* **Target Language Selector (e.g., `FR - French (Français)`):** Located at the top-left of the translated pane. Click it to switch the target translation language at any time during your session.
* **Toggle Split Orientation Button (Split Pane Icon):** Located on the divider line between panes. Click it to instantly switch between **Stacked** and **Side by side** views.
* **Swap Panes Button (`↑↓` Arrows Icon):** Located next to the orientation button on the divider line. Click it to swap which pane appears first (top vs. bottom in Stacked view, or left vs. right in Side by Side view). Swapping panes only changes their visual position on screen—it does not change which language is being spoken.

***

## Quick Access Translation Menu

You can also adjust all translation display settings without leaving the captioning screen using the **Quick Access** sidebar:

1. Click the **arrow button** on the right edge of the captioning screen to open the Quick Access sidebar.
2. Click the **Globe icon** (labeled **SPLIT** or **TRANSLATE**) to open the **Live Translation** quick menu.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-b730181606dbe379ccc45418432156e5d989c856%2Ftranslation-quick-access-menu.png?alt=media" alt="Translation menu in the Quick Access sidebar"><figcaption><p>The Live Translation menu in the Quick Access sidebar on the captioning screen</p></figcaption></figure>

From this menu, you can immediately adjust:

* **LIVE TRANSLATION Toggle:** Turn live translation on or off mid-session.
* **CAPTION DISPLAY LAYOUT:** Switch between **Split (Bilingual)** and **Translated Only** (plus **Original only** when broadcasting).
* **SPLIT ORIENTATION:** Switch between **Stacked** and **Side by side**, or click the **Swap (`↑↓`)** button to flip the pane order.
* **PICTURE-IN-PICTURE SHOWS:** Choose whether your floating [Picture in Picture](/getting-started/picture-in-picture) window displays **Original only**, **Translated only**, or **Original and translated** (Split).
* **TRANSLATE TO:** Change the target translation language on the fly.

{% hint style="info" %}
Closing the Quick Access sidebar automatically closes any open popup menus so they never block your captions.
{% endhint %}

***

## Picture in Picture Translation Controls

Live Translation integrates directly with [Picture in Picture (PiP)](/getting-started/picture-in-picture) so you can float live translated captions over your slides, video call, or any other desktop application:

* **Pop-Out Button in Header Bar & Quick Access:** While captioning is active on a supported desktop browser, you can pop your captions out into Picture in Picture using the **pop-out icon** in the top header bar (next to the microphone/stop button) or from the Quick Access sidebar.
* **Choose Bilingual, Unilingual (Original), or Translated Only:** By default, when Live Translation is enabled, opening Picture in Picture displays **Translated only** so you can float compact translated subtitles on screen. You can switch what Picture in Picture shows (**Original only**, **Translated only**, or **Original and translated** bilingual view) in three places:
  * **Directly inside the Picture in Picture window:** Move your cursor inside the floating PiP window to reveal the 3-way language switcher at the top center (for example, `EN` | `DE` | `EN+DE`), allowing you to switch between unilingual original, translated-only, and bilingual views without returning to the main tab.
  * **The Quick Access sidebar menu:** Under *PICTURE-IN-PICTURE SHOWS*.
  * **Settings → Translation:** Under *Picture-in-Picture shows*.
* **Change Direction & Position Inside Picture in Picture:** When viewing **Original and translated** (bilingual split) inside the Picture in Picture window, moving your cursor over the window also reveals the **on-screen divider controls** and target language selector—so you can switch the split **direction** (Stacked vs. Side by side), **swap the position** of the language panes (`↑↓`), or even change the target language directly inside the floating PiP window.
* **Move & Resize Anywhere on Your Desktop:** You can drag the Picture in Picture window anywhere on your screen and resize it to fit your layout; it always stays on top of other desktop windows and applications.


# Broadcasting, OBS & Bilingual AI

Live Translation works seamlessly across Zip Captions' sharing and streaming tools—including [Broadcast Streams](/streaming-captions/broadcasting-your-captions-to-others), [OBS Studio](/streaming-captions/captioning-with-obs-for-live-streams), and [AI Captions (Azure Cognitive Services)](/settings/ai-captions).

***

## Broadcasting Translated Captions to Viewers

When you host a [Broadcast Stream](/streaming-captions/broadcasting-your-captions-to-others) with **Live Translation** enabled, Zip Captions automatically transmits **both** your original captions and your translated captions to everyone watching your stream.

### What This Means for Viewers

* **Works on Any Device or Browser:** Because the broadcaster's computer performs the translation and sends the translated text over the stream, **viewers do not need a browser that supports on-device translation**. Attendees on **iPhones, iPads, Android phones, Safari, or Firefox** can view your translated captions live!
* **One-Click "Show Translation" Button:** When a viewer joins a broadcast that offers a translation, a **Show translation** button (for example, `Show translation: FR`) appears in the top right of their screen. Clicking it immediately opens the translated pane.
* **Viewer Display Controls:** Each viewer can independently choose how they want to view the broadcast on their own device using their Quick Access sidebar (**Split (Bilingual)**, **Translated Only**, or **Original only**, as well as **Stacked** or **Side by side** orientation).
* **Broadcaster "Original Only" Mode:** If you want your own screen (such as a podium monitor) to show only the spoken language while still sending live translations to your audience's devices, set your **Caption Display Layout** to **Original only**.

### Viewer-Side Local Translation (Additional Languages)

If a viewer joins your broadcast using a supported desktop browser (**Chrome 138+** or **Edge 148+**), their language dropdown lists:

1. **Translated by the broadcaster:** The language you are already broadcasting (no model download required by the viewer).
2. **Translated on this device:** All other supported translation languages. This allows a desktop Chrome/Edge viewer to translate your original broadcast into a different language of their choice right on their own device—even if you aren't translating at all!

***

## Sending Translated Captions to OBS Studio

When using [Zip Captions with OBS Studio](/streaming-captions/captioning-with-obs-for-live-streams) via WebSocket (`SendStreamCaption`), you can choose whether OBS receives your **original** spoken captions or your **translated** captions.

1. Open **Settings** and click on the **OBS Studio** tab.
2. Under **What OBS receives**, choose between:
   * **Original captions** *(Default)*: Sends the spoken language to your OBS stream.
   * **Translated captions**: Sends the real-time translated caption feed to your OBS stream.

{% hint style="info" %}
If you select **Translated captions** while Live Translation is turned off or unavailable, OBS automatically falls back to receiving your **Original captions** so your stream never loses subtitles. While a phrase's translation is still pending, Zip Captions waits until the translation is ready rather than sending untranslated text.
{% endhint %}

### CEA-608 Character Set Limitations in OBS

OBS Studio transmits embedded stream captions using the standard **CEA-608** broadcast caption format, which only supports Latin/Western European character sets (Basic North American, Special North American, and Extended Western European characters).

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Unsupported Scripts in OBS CEA-608 Captions**

Because of CEA-608 format limitations inside OBS Studio, OBS cannot display characters from non-Latin scripts, including:

* **Arabic** (`ar`)
* **Chinese** (`zh`)
* **Japanese** (`ja`)
* **Korean** (`ko`)
* **Hindi** (`hi`)
* **Russian** (`ru`)
* **Ukrainian** (`uk`)

If your effective OBS language uses one of these scripts, Zip Captions will display a warning in the OBS Studio settings tab. To show non-Latin translated captions in OBS, we recommend capturing the Zip Captions window using an [OBS Browser Source](/advanced/captioning-with-obs-browser-source) or [OBS Application Source](/advanced/captioning-with-obs-application-source) instead of WebSocket CEA-608 captions.
{% endhint %}

***

## Bilingual Speech Recognition with Azure AI Captions

When using [AI Captions (Microsoft Azure Cognitive Services)](/settings/ai-captions), several regional dialects natively recognize **both the selected language and English** within the same session—allowing speakers to switch between languages naturally without changing settings.

### Supported Bilingual Azure Dialects

* **French (Canada)** (`fr-CA`) — Recognizes **French + English**
* **Spanish (United States)** (`es-US`) — Recognizes **Spanish + English**
* **Arabic Dialects** (`ar-AE`, `ar-BH`, `ar-DZ`, `ar-IL`, `ar-IQ`, `ar-KW`, `ar-LB`, `ar-LY`, `ar-MA`, `ar-OM`, `ar-PS`, `ar-QA`, `ar-SA`, `ar-SY`, `ar-TN`, `ar-YE`) — Recognizes **Arabic + English** *(Note: `ar-EG` and `ar-JO` do not include bilingual English support)*

When you select one of these dialects with the Azure engine, Zip Captions displays a hint letting you know that **this dialect also recognizes English**, and whichever of the two languages is spoken will be shown in that language in the live captions.

### How Bilingual Detection Works with Live Translation

When you combine an Azure bilingual dialect (for example, **French (Canada)**) with **Live Translation** into **English** (or vice versa):

1. **On-Device Language Detection:** As each caption segment is finalized, Zip Captions uses Chrome's built-in on-device `LanguageDetector` to identify whether the phrase was spoken in French or English. (Very short or uncertain phrases automatically keep the previous phrase's language.)
2. **Dedicated Language Panes:** In **Split (Bilingual)** view, each pane is dedicated to a specific language (one **FR** pane and one **EN** pane).
   * When the speaker talks in **French**, the French text appears as spoken in the **FR** pane and is translated into English in the **EN** pane.
   * When the speaker switches to **English**, the English text appears as spoken in the **EN** pane and is translated into French in the **FR** pane.
3. **Both Translation Directions:** Clicking **Download Translation Model** on the captioning screen automatically prepares both translation directions (e.g., `fr → en` and `en → fr`) so seamless two-way translation is ready whenever the speaker switches languages.


# Microphone Goes to Sleep

**If you are using OBS please see** [**this article**](/known-issues/microphone-becomes-unresponsive-using-obs) **instead**

**ISSUE:**

The microphone will sleep when the active tab is moved away from

**SOLUTION:**

Instead of running the app in an active tab, install the Progressive Web App (PWA) version of ZipCaptions.

To install the PWA you need to:

1. Click on the menu in your web browser

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FT8kkVngLcfODSWm9gYhX%2Fpwa-install.png?alt=media&amp;token=354726a7-f581-4d44-950d-394c2b21c02e" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

1. Click on **Install Zip Captions**


# Microphone Shows as Exclamation Mark

**ISSUE:**

The Microphone Appears as an Exclamation Mark (⚠️)

This can be caused by:

* A lack of microphone on the computer
  * **SOLUTION:** Install a microphone on the computer
* A change in the audio input
  * **SOLUTION:** Reload the page so that the microphone can be seen
* Incorrect permissions for the microphone
  * **SOLUTION:** Click on the lock in the address bar and change the permissions

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FpSpHWrSXrQw0iESg9ceP%2Fomnibar.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=751beb59-afc1-4cd6-8a61-ebe7e4fa926e" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* Some other error, which will appear in the footer of the application.
  * SOLUTION: The error message will tell you what the issue is


# Microphone Becomes Unresponsive Using OBS

ISSUE:

When using OBS the microphone may become unresponsive as the browser window is forced into the background

SOLUTION:

1. Running ZipCaptions as a Progressive Web App (PWA) will see the page running in its own browser instance. This will stop the microphone from sleeping.
2. Adding `https://zipcaptions.app` to the Chrome Performance page (`chrome://settings/performance` under "Always keep these sites active") will prevent Chrome from putting the tab to sleep when you move away from it.


# Microphone Volume is Automatically Adjusted

**ISSUE:**

When using Zip Captions in Chrome on Windows, the volume of the microphone is adjusted, and in a recording the user cannot be heard.

**CAUSE:**

Chrome has the ability to manage the volume of the microphone. This setting is called “WebRTC adjust the input volume”.

**SOLUTION:**

1. Disable the feature by turning off the following Chrome Flag: 'WebRTC to adjust the input volume'. In order to do this, navigate to `chrome://flags` in your Chrome address bar and search for the 'WebRTC to adjust the input volume' flag. Turn it off by changing the dropdown to 'Disabled'.
2. Installing the ‘Disabled Automatic Gain Control’ Google Chrome Extension from the Chrome Web Store will also disable this feature. You can find it at <https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/disable-automatic-gain-co/clpapnmmlmecieknddelobgikompchkk?pli=1>.


# iOS Devices Give an Error

If you are using an iOS device and you get the error:

> Speech recognition error: The user agent disallowed the requested speech recognition service, either because the user agent doesn't support it or because of reasons of security, privacy or user preference.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FlYfqKEmWKkjD83rmPRJC%2FZipCaptions%202.jpeg?alt=media&amp;token=5305a18a-e327-4a8a-926f-7e0913487da2" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

You need to enable the **Speech Recognition Engine** in the device settings. To do this:

1. Go to Settings\ <img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FGnyfPvwaOqEa9KgfSbhO%2FSimulator%20Screenshot%20-%20iPhone%2015%20Pro%20-%202024-08-08%20at%2021.45.30.png?alt=media&amp;token=d21dd9ca-4a6d-4e3b-81cf-81f2936059e1" alt="" data-size="original">
2. Go to Privacy & Security\
   ![](https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FsyRP5O3Mm6F3CrP0gWT1%2FSimulator%20Screenshot%20-%20iPhone%2015%20Pro%20-%202024-08-08%20at%2021.45.10.png?alt=media\&token=52187ad5-dccc-49d0-9361-c1c610467c4a)
3. Choose Speech Recognition\
   ![](https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FNGjmEBCClTW2lK98VaEp%2FSimulator%20Screenshot%20-%20iPhone%2015%20Pro%20-%202024-08-09%20at%2012.36.48.png?alt=media\&token=dbbacc61-05f0-4290-8d7f-5a2d1500e59d)
4. Ensure that the toggle that is next to your browser is **Green**
5. Go back to **Settings** > **General** > **Keyboard**\
   ![](https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FeZI360i3isSJglFr07Sp%2FSimulator%20Screenshot%20-%20iPhone%2015%20Pro%20-%202024-08-09%20at%2012.39.47.png?alt=media\&token=04a95727-5641-49de-bdfb-64ad01c9c56c)
6. Scroll down until you get to **Dictation**\
   ![](https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2Fh6oqRFps6H5k29YmiNqW%2FSimulator%20Screenshot%20-%20iPhone%2015%20Pro%20-%202024-08-09%20at%2012.39.56.png?alt=media\&token=3ce82074-a82c-4e8f-b8fe-1730c5c150bc)
7. Disable dictation by sliding the green toggle\
   ![](https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2F1RaDuPZ1WmmNw9Cbntjx%2FSimulator%20Screenshot%20-%20iPhone%2015%20Pro%20-%202024-08-09%20at%2012.40.00.png?alt=media\&token=7bf5c643-35d1-4bd6-bb4e-d423f2cb6120)
8. Now **re-enable dictation** by **sliding the slider** across again, and **choosing Enable in the prompt** which appears\
   ![](https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FvvzRGRTCCU2Q55cLCsUl%2FSimulator%20Screenshot%20-%20iPhone%2015%20Pro%20-%202024-08-09%20at%2012.40.04.png?alt=media\&token=ef14d955-ffcb-4f13-9615-6e7f90e80f8c)
9. Return to Zip Captions, and your captioning should now work


# App Installed from the Google Play Store does not work

There are a few things at play here:

1. Your browser must support the WebSpeech API, while you may have a compatible browser on your device, the browser that your device manufacturer ships with your device may be affecting the ability for your device to run the Play Store version correctly.
2. Your device might need updating to a newer Android version

If the version from the Play Store does not work, we suggest that you install the Google Chrome browser onto your device, and [use the PWA Version of Zip Captions](/getting-started/installing-the-zip-captions-app#android).


# Persistent Captions Extension

The Zip Captions Chrome Extension is a powerful Chrome extension designed to display the captions from Zip Captions in a convenient, always-accessible overlay. Our extension ensures your captions are visible across all your Chrome tabs or even in a separate, floating window that stays with you.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2Fyl5l1jTOb1AwmHKJyVAv%2Fzippanel.png?alt=media&amp;token=1e127389-89ae-4073-96b7-a9c429f72f6b" alt=""><figcaption><p>The Zip Captions Chrome Extension showing captions in a pop-up window positioned underneath the main browser window</p></figcaption></figure>

The extension allows you to multitask effectively without losing track of spoken content. Customize the overlay's appearance to perfectly match your viewing comfort with adjustable background opacity and text size. Choose to have captions displayed discreetly at the bottom of your pages or "pop out" the overlay into its own resizable window for maximum flexibility. Stay informed, stay productive, and never miss a word, no matter where you browse!

**1. Installation:**

* Install the extension from the [Chrome Web Store](https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/zipcaptions-persistent-ca/ibkgpkncdmagdcbmnnekjikiaijfioma?authuser=0\&hl=en-GB)
* Once installed, you'll see its icon in your Chrome toolbar.

**2. Setting up the Caption Source:**

* For the extension to capture and display captions, you must have the Zip Captions page open and actively producing captions.

**3. Using the Extension Popup (Clicking the Toolbar Icon):** Click the icon in your Chrome toolbar to open the control popup. Here you'll find:

<div align="center"><figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FOzOmNIgP8kynhGPPjkbu%2FScreenshot%202025-05-25%20at%203.54.21%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=749db454-6b7c-414c-b4e8-36907da6c422" alt="" width="244"><figcaption><p>The extension with the menu option</p></figcaption></figure></div>

* **Global Overlay Control:**
  * **Status Text:** Shows if the overlay is currently "Enabled" or "Disabled."
  * **Enable/Disable Overlay Globally Button:** This is the main switch for the extension.
    * If it says "Disable Overlay Globally," captions are active. Clicking it will turn off all caption overlays (both in-page and the pop-out if it's open) and change the button text to "Enable Overlay Globally."
    * If it says "Enable Overlay Globally," captions are inactive. Clicking it will turn the feature on, and overlays will attempt to appear based on your settings.
* **Pop-out / Dock Control:**
  * **"Pop-out Overlay" Button:** Click this to move the caption display from the in-page overlays into a separate, floating window. The in-page overlays on all tabs will then hide.
  * **"Focus Pop-out Window" Button:** If the pop-out window is already open, this button's text will change. Clicking it will attempt to bring the existing pop-out window to the front.
* **Style Options:**
  * **Background Opacity Slider:** Drag the slider to adjust the transparency of the overlay's background (both for the in-page overlay and the pop-out window). The value (e.g., 0.10 to 1.00) is displayed next to the label. Changes are applied live.
  * **Text Size (px) Input:** Enter a number (e.g., between 10 and 48) or use the small arrows to set your preferred font size for the captions. This also applies to both in-page and pop-out overlays live.

**4. The In-Page Overlay:**

* When the extension is **Enabled** and the display mode is set to **"in-page"** (this is the default mode, or after docking the pop-out):
  * A persistent overlay panel will appear at the bottom of all your open Chrome tabs (that match the extension's permissions, typically all standard web pages).
  * **On the Source Tab:** The overlay will display the live captions being generated directly from that page.
  * **On Other Tabs:** The overlay will display the same live captions being broadcast from your active Source Tab. If no Source Tab is active or sending captions, it will typically display "Waiting for captions..." or a similar message.
* This in-page overlay will use the opacity and text size you've set in the popup.

**5. The Pop-out Window Overlay:**

* **Activating:** Click the "Pop-out Overlay" button in the extension's main popup.
* **Behaviour:** A new, small, separate window will appear, dedicated to showing the live captions.
  * It will float and can be moved around your screen. While it tries to stay on top of other Chrome windows, operating system behaviour or full-screen apps might sometimes cover it.
  * The in-page overlays on your other tabs will automatically hide while the pop-out is active.
  * The pop-out window will display live captions from your Source Tab and will use the opacity and text size settings from the main popup.
* **"Dock to Page" Icon/Button:** Inside the pop-out window (usually in a corner), you'll find an icon button.
  * Clicking this "Dock" button will close the pop-out window.
  * The extension will automatically switch back to "in-page" overlay mode, and the in-page overlays will reappear on your browser tabs, displaying the live captions.
* **Closing the Pop-out:** If you close the pop-out window using its standard OS window close button (the 'X'), it will also automatically switch the extension back to "in-page" overlay mode.

**6. Multi-Tasking with Captions:**

* With either the in-page overlay or the pop-out window active, you can browse other tabs or work in other applications (though the pop-out's ability to stay on top of non-Chrome apps is limited) while still seeing the live captions from your source tab.

{% hint style="info" %}
Looking for a floating window that stays on top of all desktop applications without needing a Chrome extension? Check out our native [Picture in Picture](/getting-started/picture-in-picture) feature built directly into Zip Captions!
{% endhint %}

**Troubleshooting & Tips:**

* **Ensure a Source Tab is Active:** For captions to appear anywhere, you need at least one tab open that the extension recognizes as a caption source and that tab must be actively producing captions.
* **Check the Global Toggle:** If no overlays are appearing, first check the main "Enable/Disable Overlay Globally" button in the extension popup.
* **One Primary Source:** While the extension tries to be smart, for the most consistent cross-tab captioning experience, it's best to have only one primary tab actively generating captions that you intend to be the source.
* **Reload if Needed:** If you change settings or encounter an issue, sometimes reloading the extension from `chrome://extensions` and then reloading your web pages can help.


# vMix Support Extension

You can enable vMix support for Zip Captions by installing this extension from the Chrome Web Store. The setup process is a little more involved than for other platforms.

{% hint style="warning" %}
You must ensure that the Web Controller function is enabled in vMix.

The extension can only talk to a vMix instance which is installed on the same computer.
{% endhint %}

1. Install the extension using [this link](https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/zip-captions-vmix-caption/lbmofcdefajmlgdkccabpofoonmdfjao).
2. Install vMix from the [vMix site](https://www.vmix.com/).
3. Open vMix and add a title to your editor, this can be technically any title that you want.
4. Open the Options page in the chrome extension by right clicking on the icon and choosing options, or via the extensions page in Chrome: **⋮ > Extensions > Manage Extensions**\\

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2F6VmSreNVlpo0a4MPchNN%2Fvmix.png?alt=media&amp;token=a75a958e-0c7c-4c96-855e-8416978f6688" alt=""><figcaption><p>vMix Settings in the Chrome Extension (these match the settings in the window below)</p></figcaption></figure>
5. In the vMix input box, you will put the name of the title (or rename your title in vMix to match the one you choose here).
6. In vMix, right click in the title box at the bottom of the screen, and choose the title editor, find the title property name, in the left hand box of the editor window, and enter this name into the fourth box (**Text Field Name**) in the chrome extension.\\

   <figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FYAJCClLhWxw8VzzTSEMS%2FScreenshot%202025-06-28%201417212.png?alt=media&amp;token=07661a5f-d0f6-4084-aa5c-8d9f85a556f7" alt=""><figcaption><p>Here you can see that the Text Field Name is <strong>Heading</strong></p></figcaption></figure>
7. Save your Chrome Options, and then close the title editor.
8. Refresh your Zip Captions window, and your captions should now start to appear in vMix.


# Companion Add-On

Zip Captions now supports being controlled via Bitfocus Companion.

You can control the following functions:

* Start / Stop Captioning
* Play / Pause Captioning

You can also get feedback from the extension:

* Captioning Running / Stopped
* The currently captioned word

To get the add-on working, you must:

1. Install the Chrome Extension from the [Google Web Store](https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/zip-captions-companion-ad/chcflkiceakimokommplmfpcpodabdcg).
2. Install the Companion Module within Companion.

{% embed url="<https://youtu.be/xMFm8ToDeU4>" %}


# Captioning with OBS (Browser Source)

**Using Zip Captions with the Browser Source in OBS to provide Open Captions for a Live Stream, or a Live Event.**

**T**o get started you will need OBS and Zip Captions open with an [active broadcast stream](/streaming-captions/broadcasting-your-captions-to-others).

1. In the sources window in OBS, click on the + and choose Browser

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2Fl8yY0wFoVxWtpCIoNv2Y%2FScreenshot%202024-04-07%20at%209.10.19%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=14a1c099-dfcd-46f2-b947-1742d7a65eed" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

2. Click OK to the prompt to create a new Browser

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FKdQqjtvn6wwptigVKByz%2FScreenshot%202024-04-07%20at%209.10.32%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=79647b67-9b75-40ab-97d5-982b6082e9d1" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

3. In the URL box enter the following URL, replacing the placeholders with the information from your stream:

```
https://zipcaptions.app/stream/[SESSIONID]?joinCode=[JOINCODE]
```

Example:

```
https://zipcaptions.app/stream/9q4r-j2jk?joinCode=ewqe
```

In the height and width, choose a reasonable width for you needs and a height of around 400

Click on **OK**

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FcENwQAypAvjsY5GEt731%2FScreenshot%202024-04-07%20at%209.17.01%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=9f84223f-90b4-4943-911c-37feef88b9e4" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

4. Click on the **Interact** button.\
   \&#xNAN;*If you are using Streamlabs OBS you will need to right click and choose Interact*

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FkMGpVuRRfG584cO2rjFB%2FScreenshot%202024-04-07%20at%209.17.12%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=79829338-d633-44ad-97c5-a9e761454c13" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

5. Now you can use the quick access settings in Zip Captions to set the **On Screen Results** to either 0 or 1, this reduces the lines of captions shown to 1 or 2 lines.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FvGZL1SJ39qoY5q8TbAUD%2FScreenshot%202024-04-07%20at%209.17.27%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=a0095237-b630-43f7-906b-819569b4a0bd" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

6. Finally here, click on the **Fullscreen** button to remove the header and the footer.\
   Click the arrow to hide the quick access settings.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FgcyDjV14893ODc3hZGYk%2FScreenshot%202024-04-07%20at%209.17.34%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=46e8d06c-2819-4058-bff6-e0a437b47f18" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

You now have a panel which will show live captions being pulled from your Zip Captions session.


# Captioning with OBS (Application Source)

Using OBS you can capture the Zip Captions window using the Source capture and then Chromakey your captions. This method will result in overlayed open captions, which can then be combined with the [**Simple Method**](/example-use-cases/live-event-captioning) to provide captions in your stream as well.

1. Open OBS
2. Open the Zip Captions PWA ([Instructions on installing the PWA](/getting-started/installing-the-zip-captions-app))
3. Add a **Window Capture** to the **Sources** by clicking on the + underneath the sources window.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FC9GeoFgcgw9IhI3jAfCV%2FScreenshot%202024-04-06%20at%2012.16.44%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=0e54cee4-b144-4822-9eb8-11e8be393e21" alt=""><figcaption><p>The Sources panel. This is what you should end up with.</p></figcaption></figure>

4. Choose the **Window Capture** method, and choose **Zip Captions** PWA from the window drop down.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FggzI37kCpLUq1iX86sPp%2FScreenshot%202024-04-06%20at%2012.17.22%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=7d5e5892-9b97-44ce-9947-dd831375b5e7" alt=""><figcaption><p>Choosing the Window Capture and the Zip Captions Window</p></figcaption></figure>

5. Click **OK**
6. Now click on the + again, and this time choose the **Colour Source** option.
7. Click on the **Filters** button which shows above the sources.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FoUc02QNeVrP3yFAXVDMT%2FScreenshot%202024-04-06%20at%2012.17.48%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=094a7ef2-17d9-49e7-bdbf-07f17f303e18" alt=""><figcaption><p>Choose Filters for the Colour Source</p></figcaption></figure>

8. We are now going to add a Chroma Key filter to the colour source.
9. Click on the + and choose **Chroma Key**, in the 'Key Colour Type' choose **Blue**, and make sure that it matches the settings below.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FMiTWkuI0LFHH6Q1KzHTS%2FScreenshot%202024-04-06%20at%2012.18.10%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=96b3791b-a97d-44e5-8f63-49a93421a7f3" alt=""><figcaption><p>Add a Chroma Key Filter</p></figcaption></figure>

10. Click Close
11. Resize your window source so that the captions are shown to your needs.
12. Go to your Zip Captions PWA window, and in the settings menu, set your theme to **Aqua**.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FEqOZRLPu8Bzgk9XkkrMZ%2FScreenshot%202024-04-06%20at%2012.19.01%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=1dcf425a-6e8a-42fa-9118-99e8ce73d95d" alt=""><figcaption><p>Change the Zip Captions theme to Aqua</p></figcaption></figure>

13. Open the Preview window in OBS, right click on the preview window, and then select "FullScreen Projector (Preview)" or "Windowed Projector (Preview)". You can then place this onto a second output.


# Captioning with a Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini

**The ATEM Mini series of video switchers are an affordable option to live video switching and editing. This article discusses the ability to use the Downstream Keyer in the ATEM Control Software along with a rectangle placed into the Media Library.**

Prerequisites:

* A Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini, Mini Pro, Mini Pro ISO, Mini Extreme or Mini Extreme ISO

{% hint style="info" %}
We have not tested this with other models of the ATEM Switcher, however, while this should work on the whole ATEM family, you may wish to use the super source on the switchers which support this feature.
{% endhint %}

* A computer running Zip Captions connected to the ATEM via HDMI ([see below](#considerations-for-setting-up-zip-captions) for instructions for setting up Zip Captions)
* A computer with the Blackmagic Design [ATEM Control Software](https://www.blackmagicdesign.com/ca/support/family/atem-live-production-switchers) installed and running, connected directly to the ATEM via USB-C or on the same network as the ATEM.

In this example, we have the computer running the captions plugged into HDMI 1 on the ATEM, and we have an additional computer input plugged into HDMI 2 displaying a web browser. The HDMI output is set to PGM.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FaAC6OtMvhVRFRlcJcUJS%2FPXL_20240408_145340668.MP.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=1784fedf-164e-4d83-9902-2a39b6438555" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

All of the setup for this is going to happen in the ATEM Control Software.

1. Open the ATEM Control Software and connect to your switcher
2. Click on the Media tab at the bottom of the screen.
3. Download [this rectangle](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1HPiQXxeMhWSwYlH929aqhd5EP1zw8Dnr/view?usp=drive_link) (links to Google Drive) or [this one ](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MM34bsLWoN8vXv2MrjIb5-fEV-wY0PPw/view?usp=drive_link)which is opaque.
4. On the left side of the media panel, navigate to where you downloaded your rectangle.
5. Drag and drop the rectangle to one of the empty media library locations.
6. Drag the rectangle in the media library, to the media box on the right hand side of the screen.

<div data-full-width="false"><figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FosY7HVxhtNj3kUjsk7gl%2FRectangle.png?alt=media&amp;token=db678811-c2fe-4eed-83bb-934777806896" alt="" width="563"><figcaption><p>Drag and drop the rectangle from your media library to the active media location</p></figcaption></figure></div>

7. Click on the Switcher tab at the bottom of the screen
8. On the right hand side click on Palettes

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2Ft2Tos3S9TlYkljWSCEu2%2Fswitcher-main-en-md.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=26eeca80-abcc-46f4-844e-4221fdc3e6de" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

7. Scroll down to the Downstream Key section

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FQ6YSSzeR4UZaZzQJwD1O%2FScreenshot%202024-04-08%20at%207.57.14%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=43ddbce0-9caf-455e-8a07-47e994bb40d6" alt="" width="363"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

7. Set the following settings:
   * **Fill Source** choose your **HDMI 1** input
   * **Key Source** choose the **Media Player 1 Key**

{% hint style="warning" %}
You should not be showing Input 1 on the switcher, the red live indicator should now be on Inputs 2, 3 or 4.
{% endhint %}

7. In the main window find the section titled **DSK 1** and click on the **ON AIR** button

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FizijjHJmGb6zMZbiGkxg%2FScreenshot%202024-04-08%20at%208.33.51%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=0a676e1d-c661-4eba-8890-557f9eb66fd5" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

7. You should now find that your captions appear in a rectangle at the bottom of the screen

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2F2TJmMEd70FzhUiRQ7cL5%2FPXL_20240408_145303558.MP.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=6b2ac7a5-bd1a-45c1-aaff-a98b6b4814cd" alt=""><figcaption><p>Captions appearing in a rectangle drawn over the main image.</p></figcaption></figure>

***

#### Considerations for setting up Zip Captions

* The theme should be set to Zip Dark to work with this rectangle, if you wish to use it with another theme, you would need to change the rectangle to match the colour of the theme.
* The **On Screen Results** setting should be set to 1 or 2 lines to prevent the text from creeping outside the rectangle.
* Zip Captions should be set to full screen to remove the header and footer

{% hint style="info" %}
You can always choose to view HDMI 1 to get Zip Captions set up properly, or you can choose to view the Multi View in order to access the settings.
{% endhint %}


# Use Computer Audio in Zip Captions

Sometimes it is necessary to be able to feed your computers audio to generate captions. For example, if you want to play a video, and caption this on your device during a presentation. This is possible using specialised software which can run on your computer.

Depending on the operating system that you are using we would recommend using the following free software to achieve this.

#### Windows

Voicemeeter: <https://vb-audio.com/Voicemeeter/index.htm>

#### Mac OS

Black-Hole: <https://github.com/ExistentialAudio/BlackHole>

{% hint style="danger" %}
We would advise that you read all of the help documentation, and fully understand how to use these tools before you dive in. Changing some of these settings, and using some of these tools can prevent your regular sound settings from working on your device.
{% endhint %}


# Live Event Captioning

By using the software OBS, you can caption your live event using Zip Captions so that the captions are overlayed on your projections and on video shown on your screen.

There are a few ways to set this up.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Simple Method" %}
Install the PWA version of Zip Captions using these instructions.

Please make sure that your browser supports installation of PWA's by [visiting this page](/getting-started/supported-browsers).

1. Open the PWA on your computer from the Applications Menu
2. Minimise the toolbar by clicking the arrow

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2F9mJ1oafjCDlBfpI7j9Oj%2FScreenshot%202024-04-06%20at%2012.25.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=543c4552-f108-4fff-8de2-0bfb1832c777" alt=""><figcaption><p>Minimise the toolbar</p></figcaption></figure>

3. Resize the window and adjust the number of lines to reduce the number of results shown.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2Flp1tMIAFfMdebozMLUkY%2FScreenshot%202024-04-06%20at%2012.25.52%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=d4348a79-7fef-4860-aeb4-30c80e2bef3e" alt=""><figcaption><p>Adjusting the number of on screen results</p></figcaption></figure>

4. You can now place other applications over the top of your captioning window.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2Fz3rTpBjUeInmErna3zk4%2FScreenshot%202024-04-06%20at%2012.26.13%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=cfaf5b11-7e62-4dd8-a0b7-f29874cc64f6" alt=""><figcaption><p>Captioning window placed underneath another window</p></figcaption></figure>
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Simple Method OBS" %}
Using Websockets in OBS you can simply connect Zip Captions and OBS together. You can then livestream this to Twitch or to YouTube Live and turn on the captions on your feed. This is the same method that can be used for

{% embed url="<https://zip-captions.gitbook.io/zip-captions/streaming-captions/captioning-with-obs>" %}
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="OBS Complex" %}
You can use the OBS Browser Source to capture a broadcast stream.

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>OBS Application Source</strong></td><td>This allows you to capture a window on your desktop and chromakey it.</td><td></td><td><a href="/advanced/captioning-with-obs-application-source">Captioning with OBS (Application Source)</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>OBS Browser Source</strong></td><td>This allows you to capture captions from an inbuilt browser window in OBS.</td><td></td><td><a href="/advanced/captioning-with-obs-browser-source">Captioning with OBS (Browser Source)</a></td></tr></tbody></table>
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

For all live event captioning, you can always choose to broadcast your captions to attendees by following the instructions on the [Broadcasting Your Captions to Others](/streaming-captions/broadcasting-your-captions-to-others) page.


# In the Classroom

Zip Captions was designed for the classroom, and was created by a pair of Educators.

The accuracy of your captions can improved by following these instructions.

There are a number of ways to use Zip Captions in the classroom:

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Centrally on a Screen" %}
Captions can be shown on the main screen of the class by opening up the Zip Captions site and following the instructions in the [**Getting Started**](/getting-started/starting-captioning-with-zip-captions) section of this site. Installing the [**Progressive Web App**](/getting-started/installing-the-zip-captions-app) will give you more flexibility in your layout.

If you want to use Zip Captions with a presentation tool, then you can do so by opening your Zip Captions window and placing it behind the presentation, reduce the number of on screen display items to 0.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2Fkni0gzhTNeOOjocqVKjH%2FScreenshot%202024-04-06%20at%202.57.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=b613cf18-3a41-4866-a801-4125c8bc777b" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

In Google Slides the slides can be set to present mode by changing the end of the URL to /present

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FD0BStzHf1uGozr1OW4yg%2FScreenshot%202024-04-06%20at%202.57.41%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&amp;token=705d3b2e-17ac-48cc-9977-f73f51d00560" alt=""><figcaption><p>Changing the Google Slides URL</p></figcaption></figure>
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Sent to Student devices" %}
Sometimes we don't want to take up the screen that is being used to teach the class, or provide a visual. In this case, you can choose to broadcast the captions to your students personal devices, whether this be their phone, tablet or laptop/chromebook. You can follow t[hese instructions](/streaming-captions/broadcasting-your-captions-to-others) to learn more about how to do this.
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Integrating with Phonak Equipment" %}
If you have a student in your class with hearing loss, they may well already be using a remote microphone. Most school systems make use of the Phonak Roger systems.

There are a number of options to collect audio from a Roger network and use it for captioning.

* Use the Roger MyLink

These are simpler options, but are expensive, see step 5 below

* Use the Roger Neckloop (connect straight to the computer via USB C)
* Use the Roger Digimaster X (connect to the computer via 3.5mm cable)

The Roger MyLink can be connected as follows:

1. Plug an external sound card (USB or other) into the computer.
2. Plug a TTRS to TTS splitter into the sound card.
3. Plug a cable into the microphone input of the TRRS splitter
4. Plug the other end of this cable into the MyLink.

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FLWuOJet5ALACUieVYHdK%2FPXL_20240209_173244615.MP%20(1).jpg?alt=media&amp;token=8bd27fc8-1f53-453a-a60b-6f2bc3b01585" alt="" width="188"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

5. You now need to set the Microphone settings correctly, so that the sound card input is the input from the MyLink (or the other devices)

<figure><img src="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FinVWdzG4I7RStvIMQ55d%2FPXL_20240209_173306325.MP.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=6ba0c205-6f21-42fd-a3cf-a23ad5d099aa" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

***

#### There are a number of benefits to Open Captions in the Classroom

Open captions, like those provided by Zip Captions, offer numerous advantages for educational settings:

1. **Accessibility**: They ensure all students, especially those who are deaf or hard of hearing, can access the audio content of videos, presentations, or live instruction.
2. **Comprehension**: Open captions can aid in the comprehension of difficult vocabulary or complex information by providing a visual reinforcement of spoken words.
3. **Language Learning**: They are an effective tool for language learners, allowing them to see the spelling and structure of new words and phrases as they hear them.
4. **Attention and Engagement**: Captions can help keep students' attention on the content being presented and engage different learning styles.
5. **Flexibility**: Provides the ability to learn in noise-sensitive environments like libraries or in areas where audio cannot be used.


# Places of Worship

Places of Worship provide unique challenges, with aging populations, young children, and often large echoing spaces. We have seen many places of worship make use of Zip Captions. Most places of worship are making use of captions in two ways:

1. By broadcasting captions for users to connect to on their own devices
2. By leveraging OBS and the [instructions that can be found on this page](/streaming-captions/captioning-with-obs-for-live-streams).


# Zip Captions Online & PWA Changelog

<table data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th><th data-hidden data-card-cover data-type="files"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Build 2026-10-02T02:38</strong></td><td><p>Released on 02/10/2026<br>Release 2026-10-02T02:38 includes the following new features:</p><ul><li><p>Picture in Picture</p><ul><li>Native floating always-on-top window</li><li>Document Picture-in-Picture API support</li><li>Quick Access sidebar toggle</li></ul></li></ul></td><td></td><td></td><td><a href="/change-log/zip-captions-online-and-pwa-changelog/build-2026-10-02t02-38">Build 2026-10-02T02:38</a></td><td><a href="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FgtQbgNmj2hqby4IRZP47%2Fnew.png?alt=media&amp;token=1b13227c-649e-42d6-823a-a6dc57bbd1af">new.png</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Build 2024-09-03T13:32</strong></td><td><p>Release on 03/09/2024<br>Release 2024-09-03T13:32 includes the following new features:</p><ul><li><p>Transcriptions</p><ul><li>Create a transcript</li><li>Edit a transcript title or description</li><li>Edit the text in a transcription</li></ul></li></ul></td><td></td><td></td><td><a href="/change-log/zip-captions-online-and-pwa-changelog/build-2024-09-03t13-32">Build 2024-09-03T13:32</a></td><td><a href="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FgtQbgNmj2hqby4IRZP47%2Fnew.png?alt=media&amp;token=1b13227c-649e-42d6-823a-a6dc57bbd1af">new.png</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Build 2024-08-07T17:16</strong></td><td><p>Release on 07/08/2024<br>Release 2024-08-07T17:16 includes the following new features:</p><ul><li>Connect your Patreon account</li><li>Ability to delete your account</li><li>More accurate results on mobile</li><li>Reduced the amount of information that we request from you and store</li></ul><p><br><br><br><br><br><br><br></p></td><td><br></td><td></td><td><a href="/change-log/zip-captions-online-and-pwa-changelog/build-2024-08-08t17-16">Build 2024-08-08T17:16</a></td><td><a href="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FgtQbgNmj2hqby4IRZP47%2Fnew.png?alt=media&amp;token=1b13227c-649e-42d6-823a-a6dc57bbd1af">new.png</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Build 2024-05-13T23:57</strong></td><td><p>Released on 13/05/2024</p><p>Release 2024-05-13T23:57</p><p>includes the following new features:</p><ul><li>A new settings menu</li><li>Static Broadcast IDs</li><li>Anonymous Broadcasts</li><li>Much more...</li></ul><p><br></p></td><td></td><td></td><td><a href="/change-log/zip-captions-online-and-pwa-changelog/build-2024-05-13t23-57">Build 2024-05-13T23:57</a></td><td><a href="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FgtQbgNmj2hqby4IRZP47%2Fnew.png?alt=media&amp;token=1b13227c-649e-42d6-823a-a6dc57bbd1af">new.png</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Build 2024-03-18T20:56</strong></td><td></td><td><p>Released on: 18/03/2024</p><p>Release 2024-03-18T20:56 includes the following updates/new features:</p><ul><li>The ability to log in to Zip Captions using your Google or Microsoft account</li><li>The ability to sync settings to and from the Zip Captions Cloud Server</li></ul></td><td></td><td><a href="/change-log/zip-captions-online-and-pwa-changelog/build-2024-03-18t20-56">Build 2024-03-18T20:56</a></td><td><a href="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FgtQbgNmj2hqby4IRZP47%2Fnew.png?alt=media&amp;token=1b13227c-649e-42d6-823a-a6dc57bbd1af">new.png</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Build 2024-02-12T22:48</strong></td><td></td><td><p>Released on: 12/02/2024</p><p>Release 2024-02-12T22:48 introduces language support for:</p><ul><li>Ukrainian with a community translation</li></ul></td><td></td><td><a href="/change-log/zip-captions-online-and-pwa-changelog/build-2024-02-12t22-48">Build 2024-02-12T22:48</a></td><td><a href="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FgtQbgNmj2hqby4IRZP47%2Fnew.png?alt=media&amp;token=1b13227c-649e-42d6-823a-a6dc57bbd1af">new.png</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Version 0.0.14</strong></td><td></td><td><p>Released on: 18/01/2024</p><p>The following new features can be found in version 0.0.14:</p><p>Addition of two languages:</p><ul><li>Portuguese</li><li>Polish</li></ul></td><td></td><td><a href="/change-log/zip-captions-online-and-pwa-changelog/version-0.0.14">Version 0.0.14</a></td><td><a href="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FgtQbgNmj2hqby4IRZP47%2Fnew.png?alt=media&amp;token=1b13227c-649e-42d6-823a-a6dc57bbd1af">new.png</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Version 0.0.12</strong></td><td></td><td><p>Released on: 04/10/2023</p><p>The following new features can be found in version 0.0.12:</p><ul><li>Users can now choose from a selection of 7 fonts</li><li>Access to our new forum is now possible from the menu</li></ul></td><td></td><td><a href="/change-log/zip-captions-online-and-pwa-changelog/version-0.0.12">Version 0.0.12</a></td><td><a href="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FgtQbgNmj2hqby4IRZP47%2Fnew.png?alt=media&amp;token=1b13227c-649e-42d6-823a-a6dc57bbd1af">new.png</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Version 0.0.11</strong></td><td><p>Released on: 28/09/23</p><p>The following new features can be found in version 0.0.11:</p><ul><li>On-screen results setting</li><li>Improvements to OBS Studio websocket integration can now be operated simultaneously with recognition/broadcast</li></ul></td><td></td><td></td><td><a href="/change-log/zip-captions-online-and-pwa-changelog/version-0.0.11">Version 0.0.11</a></td><td><a href="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FgtQbgNmj2hqby4IRZP47%2Fnew.png?alt=media&amp;token=1b13227c-649e-42d6-823a-a6dc57bbd1af">new.png</a></td></tr><tr><td><p><strong>Version 0.0.9</strong></p><p>Released on: 16/09/23</p><p>The following new features can be found in version 0.0.9:</p><ul><li>OBS WebSocket Support</li><li>Donate with Patreon button</li><li>Ability to install the app as a web app</li><li>Link added to the help site</li></ul></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td><a href="/change-log/zip-captions-online-and-pwa-changelog/version-0.0.9">Version 0.0.9</a></td><td><a href="https://1608469805-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCUIvSrSYUotCp2ajUEtk%2Fuploads%2FgtQbgNmj2hqby4IRZP47%2Fnew.png?alt=media&amp;token=1b13227c-649e-42d6-823a-a6dc57bbd1af">new.png</a></td></tr></tbody></table>


# Version 0.0.9

Released on: 16/09/23

The following new features can be found in version 0.0.9:

* OBS WebSocket Support
* Donate with Patreon button
* Ability to install the app as a web app
* Link added to the help site

## OBS WebSocket Support

Open Broadcasting Software Studio will now accept captioning from ZipCaptions using the WebSocket interface. You can set up WebSocket Captions using the instructions which can be found [here](/streaming-captions/captioning-with-obs-for-live-streams).

## Donate with Patreon

Patreon is a platform to allow you to support creators online. As part of your Patreon pledge of either $1 or $5 at this time you will get access to different perks. You can learn more on our Patreon page [here.](https://patreon.com/ZipCaptions)

## Ability to install the app as a Web App

You can now install ZipCaptions onto your device so that you can find it more easily. You should be prompted to install it, but in case you do not, you can do this manually from the menu. Click on the menu in the browser, then choose **Install ZipCaptions** from the menu.

## Link to Help Site

You can now access our help pages from the app more easily. Click on the menu in ZipCaptions, and find the help pages in the Support Section.


# Version 0.0.11

Released on: 28/09/23

The following new features can be found in version 0.0.11:

* On-screen results setting
* Improvements to OBS Studio websocket integration can now be operated simultaneously with recognition/broadcast

Bug Fixes

* Modification to segmentation logic, should avoid cutting off recognition results
* Moved settings action buttons, added confirm unsaved changes on navigation
* Adjustments to CSS to include previously-unthemed elements (sidebar controls, nav menu)


# Version 0.0.12

Released on: 04/10/2023

The following new features can be found in version 0.0.12:

* Users can now choose from a selection of 7 fonts
* Access to our new forum is now possible from the menu

Bug Fixes

* Issues with loading the site on iOS and Safari has been fixed


# Version 0.0.14

Released on: 18/01/2024

The following new features can be found in version 0.0.14:

Addition of two languages:

* Portuguese
* Polish

Bug Fixes

* In a previous version we fixed the font delivery system causing potential outages


# Build 2024-02-12T22:48

Released on: 12/02/2024

Release 2024-02-12T22:48 introduces language support for:

* Ukrainian with a community translation

Release 2024-02-12T22:48 includes the following updates/new features:

* A bug fix for a bug which was affecting network time out events. The app will now attempt to reconnect for up to 3 seconds before erroring out, so it should be able to re-establish a connection to the recognition server. Depending on how much time that takes, you may notice it drops a word or two during the period of disconnection.
* The logo has been updated.
* A fix for an overflowing app update notification.


# Build 2024-03-18T20:56

Released on: 18/03/2024

Release 2024-03-18T20:56 includes the following updates/new features:

* The ability to log in to Zip Captions using your Google or Microsoft account
* The ability to sync settings to and from the Zip Captions Cloud Server


# Build 2024-05-13T23:57

Released on: 13/05/2024

Release Build 2024-05-13T23:57 includes the following updates/new features:

* The ability to generate static broadcast session IDs
* The ability to generate a brodcast with or without a join code
* A new settings interface
* A new OBS interface
* A new Broadcast interface
* A new My Account layout
* Generation of a URL to share a broadcast with others


# Build 2024-08-08T17:16

Released on: 08/08/2024

Release Build 2024-08-08T17:16 includes the following updates/new features:

* I**ntegration with Patreon to determine your support level** - this will allow us to provide you with unique to Patreon features in the future, and to display your name as a supporter if you give us permission to do so (upcoming).
* **Ability to delete accounts** - if you wish to delete your account, you can now do so via the accounts page.
* **More accurate results on Mobile** - you will notice that the red warning has disappeared on mobile, this is because we can now provide you with more accurate results. We have also fixed a bug with Safari.
* **Reduced Personally Identifiable Information** - we have reduced the amount of information that we collect from you. We now capture just your email address in order to provide you with your services if you choose to login with one of our sign in partners.


# Build 2024-09-03T13:32

Released on: 03/009/2024

Release Build 2024-09-03T13:32 includes the following updates/new features:

* Transcriptions
  * Create a transcript
  * Edit a transcript title or description
  * Edit the text in a transcription


# Build 2026-10-02T02:38

Released on: 02/10/2026

Release Build 2026-10-02T02:38 includes the following updates/new features:

* **Picture in Picture (PiP) Mode**:
  * Pop out live captions into a native floating window that stays on top of all other desktop applications.
  * Built using the browser's Document Picture-in-Picture API with zero external extensions required.
  * Convenient one-click toggle right from the Quick Access sidebar on the captioning screen.
  * Automatically inherits your custom Zip Captions theme, font, and display styling.
  * Seamless return to the main captioning screen when closed or toggled off without disrupting your session.
  * Learn more in our [Picture in Picture guide](/getting-started/picture-in-picture).


# Our Policies

Your Privacy is important to us, that is why we collect as little of your data as possible to offer our services.

{% hint style="success" %}
**If you do not login**, then we do not store any data, and we do not use any analytics services. We do store cookies on your device, to allow us to save your settings for the next time that you visit. This cookie does not store any PII (Personally Identifiable Information).
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="danger" %}
**If you create an account and login with one of our sign in partners,** we do store certain limited PII, which is essential to providing you with these advanced services and to be able to authenticate you.
{% endhint %}

### FERPA & COPPA Compliance for Schools

Establishing whether our services are FERPA and COPPA compliant is the responsibility of the user, however there are some important points to bear in mind:

* Our services are COPPA and FERPA compliant **if the user does not create an account**, as no PII is stored, or shared.
* Users under the age of 13, may not create an account for Zip Captions. If you are aware of a user who has create an account and is aged under 13, please contact us at <apps@zipcaptions.app>.
* Users who create an account will have certain PII stored.