Downloading original audio and video files

Depending on your plan and when a file was uploaded, you may or may not be able to download the original audio or video file from Go Transcribe. This article explains how it works and what to expect.

What is an “original media file”?

The original media file is the audio or video file you uploaded to Go Transcribe (for example, an MP3, WAV, MP4, or similar).

This is different from:

  • transcripts
  • captions or subtitles
  • exported text files (Word, PDF, etc.)

When can I download the original media file?

You can download the original audio or video file if both of the following are true:

  • The file was uploaded while your account was on a plan that includes original media storage
  • Your current plan allows downloading original media files

If both conditions are met, you’ll see the option to download the original file from the file’s actions menu.

Why can’t I download the original file?

There are a few common reasons:

1. The file was uploaded on a Pay As You Go or trial plan

Pay As You Go and trial plans do not retain original media files long term.

If a file was uploaded while your account was on one of these plans, the original audio or video may be deleted after processing. In this case, the original file cannot be downloaded later.

Upgrading your plan will not recover files that were uploaded under a plan without media storage, but it will ensure original media is retained for future uploads.

2. Your current plan doesn’t include original media downloads

Some plans allow transcription and exports but do not include downloading the original uploaded media.

If the original file is still available but your plan does not allow downloading it, you’ll be prompted to upgrade when you try to download.

Upgrading in this case will immediately unlock downloads for files where the original media is still available.

3. The original file is no longer available

In some cases, the original media file may no longer be available because it was deleted as part of storage rules tied to the plan active at the time of upload.

When this happens:

  • the transcript and related files remain available
  • the original audio or video file cannot be recovered

Will upgrading my plan help?

It depends on the situation:

  • For files already uploaded and deleted

    Upgrading will not recover these files.

  • For future uploads

    Upgrading to a plan that includes original media storage will ensure your original audio and video files are retained and available to download.

  • For files where the original still exists but downloads are restricted

    Upgrading will immediately allow you to download the original file.

How can I make sure my files are always downloadable?

To ensure original media files are retained and downloadable:

  • Upload files while your account is on a plan that includes original media storage
  • Remain on that plan for files you want to keep access to

If retaining original audio or video files is important for your workflow, we recommend using a monthly plan that includes media storage.

Still unsure why a file can’t be downloaded?

If you’re not sure why a specific file isn’t available to download, you can check the message shown when you click “Download original media” in the app.

If you still have questions, please contact us at support@go-transcribe.com and include:

  • the file name
  • when it was uploaded
  • the plan you were on at the time (if known)

We’ll be happy to help clarify.