The microphone check isn't working

Most microphone problems are solved by allowing microphone access in your browser and reloading the page. The check passes once your voice reaches the green Good range — Good audio level! appears and Continue to Recording unlocks. A quietly moving meter stays in the amber range and the button stays locked.

The level meter doesn't move when you speak

The button keeps showing Speak to test microphone.

Fix: speak louder and hold the device closer, about an arm's length away. Say the test phrase shown on screen. If the meter still stays flat, your browser may be using a different microphone (see "Your browser uses the wrong microphone").

It worked when the bar moves, Good audio level! appears, and Continue to Recording turns green.

You see "No access to the microphone."

Your browser or your device has blocked microphone access for this page.

Fix: open your browser's settings for this website, allow the microphone, then reload the page. On most phones the permission control sits next to the address bar. On a Mac with Chrome or Firefox, the browser also has to be turned on under System Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone; restart it afterwards.

It worked when the level meter appears and reacts to your voice.

You see "The microphone could not be started."

Another program is using the microphone, or your device's privacy settings are blocking it.

Fix: end calls and close programs such as Zoom or Teams. Check your device's microphone settings, then reload the page.

You see "No microphone found."

Your device reports no microphone.

Fix: connect a microphone or select one in your device's sound settings, then reload the page.

Your browser uses the wrong microphone

The page has no microphone picker — your browser records from the device's default input.

Fix: disconnect any Bluetooth headphones, headsets or speakers — a Bluetooth headset takes over the microphone and doesn't hear the group. If that doesn't help, pick the built-in microphone, or a wired or conference microphone, in your device's sound settings. Then reload the page.

It worked when the meter reacts while you speak into the intended microphone.

On iPhone or iPad the permission prompt never appears

Safari asks for microphone access only once per website.

Fix: in the Settings app, open Safari, then Microphone, and choose Allow. End any ongoing call — iOS gives the microphone to one app at a time. Then reload the page.

It worked when the prompt or the level meter appears after the reload.

If none of this helps, tell the organisers: they can check your invite link or record your group on another device.

Organising the event? The video lesson Set up audio and devices shows how to set up phones, laptops and the room.

Related articles

• Recording your discussion
• Guest troubleshooting
• What to expect as a participant