Descript
Descript edits audio and video by editing the transcript, with AI tools for filler-word removal, dubbing, and Overdub voice cloning for podcasts and video content.
Independent assessment across data handling, compliance, security and transparency.
Overview
Descript is an all-in-one audio and video editor where edits happen in a text transcript rather than on a waveform or timeline. Its Underlord AI co-editor automates common tasks — filler-word removal, multi-cam switching, captions, eye contact correction, and AI dubbing into 30+ languages. It is widely used by podcasters, YouTubers, and internal comms teams. The Overdub feature clones a speaker's voice from a 10+ minute sample, gated by a verbal consent statement that is matched against the uploaded audio. Descript prohibits cloning non-consenting third-party voices in its terms. Descript is SOC 2 Type II certified and aligns with GDPR and CCPA, but does not publish HIPAA compliance. AI features such as transcription require opt-in to share data for service improvement; project files are retained 30 days after deletion.
Risk factors
3- Cloud SaaS with potential third-party data access
- User-generated content for audio/video editing
- Requires user-uploaded media for functionality
Recommendations
8- Require Business or Enterprise plan with SSO/SCIM for workforce deployments
- Disable Overdub for general users; restrict to a reviewed list of creators
- Require documented, recorded consent from every speaker whose voice is cloned
- Turn off data sharing for AI improvement across the workspace
- Forbid uploading PHI, customer support calls, or regulated recordings without legal review
- Use watermarks or visible disclosures when publishing AI-dubbed or voice-cloned output
- Enforce private-by-default sharing and review public link policy
- Review SOC 2 Type II report and DPA via the Descript trust page
Data handling
- Storage
- Projects stored encrypted (AES-256) on AWS and Google Cloud; TLS 1.2+ in transit. Third-party subprocessors include Rev/Whisper for transcription and Stripe for billing.
- Retention
- Deleted projects purged within 30 days; account deletion removes associated data. Export and portability available on request.
- Training on inputs
- Transcription and AI improvement data sharing is opt-in. Overdub voice models are tenant-scoped and gated by a matched verbal consent statement; third-party voice cloning is prohibited by terms.
More Video tools
See all →
10LevelUp
10LevelUp is an AI tool for optimizing video content for social media. It identifies video highlights, generates short clips, and offers features like speaker detection and auto-configuration for multi-platform use.
AI Host
LiveReacting is an AI platform creating interactive live streaming experiences with a virtual AI host, enhancing engagement through games and real-time interaction.
AI Hug
AI Hug uses AI to transform images into expressive videos, particularly showcasing warm embraces, and is designed for easy use without professional skills.
AI Hugging
AI Hugging transforms static photos into dynamic hugging videos with lifelike animations, preserving original emotions.
AI Magic Writer
AI Magic Writer automates video script creation, enabling users to efficiently generate and customize scripts for various types of video content.
AI Script Generator
AI Script Generator is a tool that uses AI to create custom scripts for filmmakers, content creators, and others based on user-specified plot elements and tone, supporting various media formats.