Fix Wispr Flow microphone problems
Most Wispr Flow "not working" problems are one of three things: a missing permission (microphone, or Accessibility on Mac), the wrong input device selected, or a hotkey conflict. Work down this checklist from the most common cause and you will usually fix it in a minute.
1. Permissions (the most common cause)
- Mac: grant both Microphone and Accessibility (System Settings > Privacy & Security). Accessibility is what lets Wispr Flow type into other apps; a macOS update can silently reset it.
- Windows: allow microphone access under Settings > Privacy & security > Microphone.
2. Wrong microphone selected
If Wispr Flow hears nothing, the wrong input is likely selected. Set your preferred mic both in Wispr Flow and in your OS sound settings. If you use a headset, confirm it is the active device.
3. Hotkey conflict
If pressing the hotkey does nothing, another app may have claimed the same shortcut. Change the dictation hotkey inside Wispr Flow.
4. It hears me but types nothing
That is the Accessibility permission on Mac, or the target window not having focus on Windows. Re-grant Accessibility, and click into the field before dictating.
5. Poor accuracy, not silence
If it hears you but the text is wrong, that is a different problem: background noise or unfamiliar words. Reduce noise and build a custom dictionary.
Frequently asked questions
On Mac, the Accessibility permission is off or was reset by an update. Re-enable it in System Settings > Privacy & Security > Accessibility.
Usually the wrong input device is selected or microphone permission is off. Set the correct mic in both the app and your OS settings.
Another app likely uses the same shortcut. Change the Wispr Flow dictation hotkey.
Related: on Mac · on Windows · custom dictionary