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After recording a voice note, ChatGPT will reuse the placeholder to make it clear that it’s transcribing your audio while you wait.
AI insights
Insights
Cognitive Drift is when users lose attention if nothing changes on screen. Showing "Transcribing" keeps users engaged during silent waits, so they don’t get distracted or frustrated.
Setting expectations is key to reducing discomfort during waits. ChatGPT’s "Transcribing" label tells users what’s happening, so they feel reassured and less anxious about progress.
Labour Illusion means showing invisible steps builds trust. ChatGPT mimics human effort by showing "Transcribing," making the process feel smarter and more reliable.
Discord uses animated audio bars to show a recording is working. Both Discord and ChatGPT add visible feedback during passive waits, which reassures users their action is being processed.
Stripe displays a clear progress bar and status during exports. Both Stripe and ChatGPT reduce frustration by showing real-time feedback, helping users feel in control while waiting.
Posted 22/08/2025
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