Mac microphone not picking up audio
Your microphone is either disabled in Sound settings or the app doesn't have permission to use it. Go to System Settings → Sound → Input and select your microphone, then grant permission in System Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone.
Microphone problems come from a disabled input device in Sound settings or an app lacking permission to use the microphone. We'll enable it in Sound settings, grant app permissions, and test it in Voice Memos to confirm it works.
- ✓Have the app ready that you want to use the microphone with (Zoom, Teams, Slack, etc.)
- ✓If using an external USB microphone, plug it in now so your Mac can detect it
- ✓If using the built-in microphone, confirm you don't have Do Not Disturb mode turned on
Fix-IT-Bot will walk you through each step, just tap, no typing needed.
Skip, I just want a technicianCommon mistakes to avoid
- Granting app permission but forgetting to toggle the switch ON in Privacy & Security → Microphone settings
- Assuming the microphone is broken without testing it in Voice Memos first
- Connecting a USB microphone but not selecting it in Sound settings before testing
Signs you need professional help
- Voice Memos can't record any audio even with an external USB microphone tested — the built-in microphone was working but suddenly stopped without any change on your part — you suspect the microphone hardware is failing.
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