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Forrest
User level: Level 2 (209 points)

Missing persistent microphone setting in Messages on macOS

There's no setting that adds a persistent microphone affordance on macOS in the Messages application -- which is very different from iOS and other apps. Is there a setting I am missing that can turn this on? Or do I have to create a keyboard shortcut to accomplish this?

Posted on Oct 7, 2026 1:56 PM

3 replies

brbo
User level: Level 8 (45,179 points)

Oct 8, 2026 3:35 PM in response to Forrest

In messages, dictation is turned on via:

(1) Press the Microphone key (microphone icon)

 if available in the row of function keys on your Mac,

(2) use the Dictation keyboard shortcut,

or

(3) choose Edit > Start Dictation.


The only way I know of to have a persistent microphone button available on a Mac, is to enable and use Voice Control instead of Dictation. Voice Control allows for increased dictation control and provides more features. It can be turned on in the accessibility settings.


Perhaps the best way to demonstrate Voice Control in use may be via this third-party (non-Apple) video, if you want to view it.

20 Voice Control Dictation Tips

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWx64HznFiU

brbo
User level: Level 8 (45,179 points)

Oct 7, 2026 10:52 PM in response to Forrest

Re: "Missing persistent microphone setting in Messages on macOS"


Wondering what you want to achieve using the microphone:


(1) Assuming you want the microphone to record messages to send: After selecting a person, or phone number:

"Click  to record an audio message, then click  to finish the recording."


More info, in the article: Send a message on Mac - Apple Support


Else:

(2) You would be able to just dictate a message using the text field in Messages if you have enabled dictation on your Mac.

Dictate messages and documents on Mac - Apple Support

Eg: says:

  1. In an app on your Mac, place the insertion point where you want to enter text.
  2. Press the Microphone key  if available in the row of function keys on your Mac, use the Dictation keyboard shortcut, or choose Edit > Start Dictation.
  3. Note: Press and release the Microphone key to start Dictation; press and hold the key to activate Siri (Siri must be enabled).
Forrest Author
User level: Level 2 (209 points)

Oct 8, 2026 8:04 AM in response to brbo

I do have Dictation enabled in my System Settings, which is what prompted me to ask about the UI/UX of an icon, lower right (or wherever) to select for dictation. I only see a wavy icon for a voice memo on the lower right, on MacOS Tahoe (up to date).


Perhaps the intent is for users to use a keyboard shortcut to activate dictation? I'd prefer the icon, as it would be consistent across the UI/UX.

Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256372115