Macbook dictation does not always work while the lid is closed

Question

Macbook dictation does not always work while the lid is closed

My dictation usually stops working if the lid is closed. I have used external microphones like dragon dictation mic or airpods. In my system preferences "sound" tab, I have the appropriate "sound input", the "input volume" is appropriate and the "input level" shows the preview moving if I speak.

The dictation starts working if I restart the laptop or if I open the lid while keeping the source the same. If I close the lid, it is just a matter of time before it stops again.

I am using the latest Mac OS on my M1 mac. Same thing happens on wife's M1 mac.

Please help.

Posted on Sep 19, 2021 5:29 PM

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Answer 1

Sep 19, 2021 6:08 PM in response to gurbirgill1984

Hi gurbirgill1984,

Both of your M1 Macs disconnect the internal microphone when you close the lid. This is enforced at the hardware level, and is designed to prevent surveillance. This page from Apple's Platform Security document provides more details: Hardware microphone disconnect - Apple Support

Regarding external microphones, do they work as expected while the lid is closed? Or do they stop functioning as well?

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Answer 2

Sep 19, 2021 6:30 PM in response to Encryptor5000

Thanks. I close the lid and use an external microphone while connecting my laptop to LG UltraFine Display. Unfortunately the external microphones stop working randomly and will only start working again if I open the lid or restart the laptop. The issue usually reoccurs after a few minutes.

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Macbook dictation does not always work while the lid is closed

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