ScanSoft Commences Search for Independent Accounting Firm

PEABODY, Mass., September 14, 2004 - ScanSoft, Inc. (Nasdaq: SSFT), the global leader of speech and imaging solutions, today announced that its audit committee has commenced a search for a new independent registered public accountant, including requesting proposals from other accounting firms, following PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP's ("PwC") resignation as the company's accounting firm.

PwC's reports on ScanSoft's consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2002 and 2003 did not contain any adverse opinion, or disclaimer of opinion, nor were they qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope or accounting principles.

The company noted that there have been no disagreements with PwC on any matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure or auditing scope or procedure.

ScanSoft does not expect any material adjustments to its previously reported financials as a result of this announcement.

About ScanSoft, Inc.

ScanSoft, Inc. (Nasdaq: SSFT) is the global leader of speech and imaging solutions that are used to automate a wide range of manual processes - saving time, increasing worker productivity and improving customer service. For more information regarding ScanSoft products and technologies, please visit www.ScanSoft.com.

ScanSoft, SpeechWorks and the ScanSoft logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of ScanSoft, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries in the United States and other countries. All other company or product names may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

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