VoicePad doesn't hear me — what do I do?

The most common cause: the microphone permission was denied or VoicePad isn't using the right input device. Here's how to fix it on each platform. **Windows:** 1. Windows Settings → Privacy → Microphone 2. Ensure "Allow apps to access your microphone" is ON 3. Scroll down → ensure VoicePad is allowed 4. Test your mic in another app first (Voice Recorder, Teams) to confirm hardware works **Android:** 1. Phone Settings → Apps → VoicePad 2. Permissions → Microphone → Allow 3. If recently denied: revoke the denial, restart VoicePad, accept the new prompt **iOS:** 1. iPhone Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone 2. Find VoicePad in the list → toggle ON 3. If VoicePad isn't in the list: delete and reinstall from App Store **macOS:** 1. System Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone 2. Find VoicePad → toggle ON 3. You may need to quit and reopen VoicePad **Still nothing after permissions are right?** - Check that you've actually selected the correct microphone (Settings → Audio Input) - Try unplugging and reconnecting external mics (USB headsets, AirPods) - Some Bluetooth headsets disconnect when not actively used — wake them by playing audio first - Run VoicePad as administrator on Windows if it's blocked from accessing audio devices **Soft speech not being picked up?** Settings → Mic Sensitivity → increase the slider. The default is calibrated for normal indoor speaking. Quieter voices may need more sensitivity. For more troubleshooting, see [Help Center → Troubleshooting](https://voicepad.tech/help/#troubleshooting).