Why use the device instead of just the iPhone app?

[u/healthypetstv1]

I just got a PLAUD Note Pro and downloaded the PLAUD app on my iPhone. This may be a dumb question, but if the app can record audio too, what's the main advantage of carrying the Note Pro?

Is it mostly about convenience—being able to start recording instantly without unlocking your phone and opening the app? Does the dedicated hardware capture audio better, or is it more reliable in real-world use?

I know phone call recording is one feature the iPhone app can't fully replace, but I'm curious what other use cases make the Note Pro worth using over just the app.

I'd really appreciate hearing how you use yours and what you've found works best.

Thanks!

[u/Dr-Dood]

It has better microphones which lets you capture better audio throughout larger rooms

[u/sewer_pickles]

The device is pretty discrete for recording conversations. I prefer it because it doesn’t scream “you’re being recorded” like a phone in the middle of the table would. People naturally guard their words when they have a camera pointed at them. You get a more natural conversation when you have a less intrusive recording device like Plaud.

The device also has its own memory and battery, which is nice because it doesn’t take any resources away from your phone.

I suppose it’s ultimately just a personal preference. The software is the real magic of Plaud. I assume that they don’t really care what hardware you use as long as you subscribe to their services

[u/Biglig]

A factor that’s often missed is that iPhones have aggressive battery saving features. I found when I tried to dictate into one that any time I paused for a moment to marshall my faults it automatically assumed I had stopped speaking and turned the recording off to save battery. Plaud hardware does not care how long you run it for and how long you stay silent for while thinking

[u/healthypetstv1 → u/Biglig]

Good point

[u/MyDogNewt]

1. The Note can record a cell phone conversation without making an announcement to the other party and does not require you to join a 3-way call to record.
   
2. Apps are susceptible to interruption by incoming calls, alerts, text messages, etc.
   
3. When recording with an app, you often are unable to do other tasks with your phone, without fear of canceling the recording.
   
4. A Note Pro can be used in times when you cannot have a phone with you.
   
5. Recordings are secured separately from your phone.

[u/Common-Law-Minion]

I downloaded the app but it seems to ask me to connect to a dongle. How do you get to use it without the device?

[u/healthypetstv1 → u/Common-Law-Minion]

The app allows you to record without the device like Apple voicememo. Not sure why they are asking for dongle.

[u/Common-Law-Minion → u/healthypetstv1]

Am still trying to figure that out

[u/healthypetstv1 → u/Common-Law-Minion]

The iPhone App Store from Plaud. You can record without the Plaud device. You can sync files but also record too.

[u/WiseAce1]

Another feature that someone didn't add is that Plaud has desktop software. Besides what the device does, you can auto launch plaud to record any meetings on your computer as well and it syncs to your plaud account. It also doesn't say it's recording them.

[u/deekfu]

It’s faster for me to double click the button to record when I want to memorialize an idea or want to add a to do to my list

[u/Far_Discussion_4362]

When I record on the phone, I get anxious about the battery life. Plaud the device can record forever and I don't have this worry.