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SpeechExec crashes on startup – Error olmapi32.dll

Updated

Philips SpeechExec Dictate / Pro Dictate crashes on startup, gets stuck at "Loading folder information," or closes immediately. In the Windows Event Viewer, errors with olmapi32.dll (Microsoft Outlook / Office) or MSVCP140.dll often appear. This known problem occurs mainly on Windows 11 in combination with Microsoft Outlook 32-bit and can be resolved with targeted measures.

Affected Products and Versions

  • Philips SpeechExec Dictate Version 12.2.6.30
  • Philips SpeechExec Pro Dictate Version 12.2.6.30
  • Office: Microsoft 365 / Office 2016–365, only Outlook 32-bit

Typical Symptoms

  • SpeechExec does not start or closes immediately
  • Crash at the splash screen "Loading folder information"
  • No user error message
  • Reinstalling SpeechExec or Office without lasting success

Common Error Messages (Windows Event Viewer)

  • Faulting module name: olmapi32.dll
  • Faulting application: SEPDict.exe / SEDict.exe

Cause

SpeechExec uses Microsoft MAPI interfaces to connect to Outlook (email functions). In certain configurations – especially with Outlook 32-bit, enabled Windows compatibility mode, or faulty COM registration of the Redemption DLLs – memory access violations occur when initializing the folder structure.

SpeechExec Startup Crash – How to Fix

 

Solution 1: Update SpeechExec Version


The most straightforward and efficient way to resolve this error is to update the software to the latest version, which is 12.2.11.33. By performing this update, you ensure that your system is equipped with the most recent features and bug fixes provided by the developers. This not only helps in addressing the current issue but also improves the overall stability and performance of the software.

In the latest version, the software’s FTP and email components—specifically EASendMail and EAGetMail—have been upgraded. These updates are crucial because they enable the software to comply with the newest security protocols and standards. As a result, your data transfers and email communications will be more secure, reducing vulnerabilities and the risk of unauthorized access. Keeping these components up to date is essential for maintaining the security and reliability of your operations.

You can find the latest software versions here:

https://www.dictation.philips.com/gb/speechexec-download/
 

Enter the appropriate prefix information for your software, then download the software. After that, unzip the file and proceed with the installation.

Solution 2: Use Outlook 64-bit

If you decide to select the Outlook MAPI options within the SpeechExec software, this particular configuration will provide a specific solution for your needs. By enabling the Outlook MAPI options, the software is able to directly interface with Microsoft Outlook through the Messaging Application Programming Interface (MAPI). This integration allows for seamless communication between SpeechExec and your Outlook email client. As a result, you can easily send, receive, and manage dictations and related files directly through Outlook, streamlining your workflow and improving efficiency. This solution is especially beneficial for users who rely heavily on Microsoft Outlook for their daily communications and document management, as it brings together the functionalities of both applications in a cohesive manner.

  • Check the installed Office version
  • Outlook 32-bit is in many cases the main cause
  • Switching to Outlook 64-bit permanently resolves the problem

If switching is not possible, proceed with Solution 2.

Solution 3: Un-register Redemption COM DLLs (proven)

Only if Office 32-bit and no MAPI SpeechExec active

This measure has fully resolved the problem in most customer cases.

  1. Close all SpeechExec applications
  2. Start Command Prompt as administrator
  3. Change to the components directory:
 
cd "C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\Philips Speech Shared\Components"
 

  1. Remove old registration:

    regsvr32 Redemption.dll /u

  2. Wait for Windows confirmation

  3. Restart SpeechExec
  4. In some cases, a restart is also necessary.

 

Summary

If SpeechExec crashes at startup or gets stuck at "Loading folder information", the cause is usually a faulty Outlook integration (olmapi32.dll). In practice, the following sequence has proven effective:

  1. Use Outlook 64-bit
  2. Un-register Redemption COM DLLs

With these measures, the majority of known SpeechExec startup problems on Windows 11 can be reliably resolved.

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