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Microphone troubleshooting

Having trouble with the mic in “Practice out loud”? Work through these steps — most issues are a browser permission that just needs switching on. They cover iPhone, Android, and computers.

Tip: the steps for your own device are also built right into the practice screen — open Mic not working? Troubleshooting steps under the record button. This page collects them all in one place you can bookmark or share.

First, the quick checks

  1. Close any other app or browser tab that might be using the mic (video calls, voice memos), then come back.
  2. Check your device isn’t muted — on an iPhone, flip the side mute switch off too.
  3. Reload the page, tap Start recording, and choose Allow when the browser asks.

Turn on the mic (iPhone / iPad)

  1. In Safari, tap the aA icon at the left of the address bar → Website Settings → set Microphone to Allow, then reload.
  2. Still blocked? Open Settings → Apps → Safari → Microphone (or Settings → Safari) and allow it.
  3. Using Chrome on iOS? Open Settings → Chrome → Microphone and switch it on.
  4. Check Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone and make sure your browser is enabled.

Turn on the mic (Android)

  1. Tap the lock (or tune) icon at the left of the address bar → Permissions → set Microphone to Allow, then reload.
  2. Still blocked? In your browser menu → Settings → Site settings → Microphone, then remove this site from the blocked list.
  3. Check the system permission: Settings → Apps → (your browser) → Permissions → Microphone → Allow.

Turn on the mic (computer)

  1. Click the lock or mic icon in the address bar → Site settings → set Microphone to Allow, then reload.
  2. On a Mac, also check System Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone and enable your browser.
  3. On Windows, check Settings → Privacy & security → Microphone and allow desktop apps / your browser.

Still stuck?

  1. Try Chrome or Edge — they’re the most reliable here (and the only browsers that add a live transcript).
  2. Fully quit and reopen your browser, then reload the page.
  3. If you’re on a shared or work device, the mic may be restricted by an administrator.

Your audio always stays on this device — these steps only grant the browser permission to listen while you practice.

Mic sorted? Rehearse a real moment out loud and see how your delivery lands — free, no sign-up.

Open the practice app →