Dictation not responding on MacBook Pro

Hi everyone,


Dictation hasn't worked on my MacBook for a while. I've tried everything.


  • Software is up to date.
  • The right microphone is selected.
    • The microphone works - checked using <sound> settings (but works fine in FT and Zoom).
    • The right volume is selected.
  • The right settings have been selected under <keyboard> re: dictation.
    • Including language etc.


BUT, whenever I activate <Dictation> the little indicator appears suggesting it's ready, but when I speak nothing happens. I know the Mac can hear me, but it's refusing to do anything. It's like my teenager.


Can anyone help? I really want this feature back.


Thanks

LG


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

MacBook Pro (M1, 2020)

Posted on Feb 20, 2024 11:16 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Oct 20, 2025 7:40 PM

Hello All. I had this issue. What I discovered was that to the left of the dictation screen there is a microphone icon (which I wasn't aware of as being something I could toggle). I had to select the carrot i.e. the arrow, and change the selection from Aggregate Device, to Internal Microphone, the it started picking up my voice. See pic.



[Edited by Moderator]

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Dictation not responding on MacBook Pro

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