How can I get my Apple Watch to enable dictation again?

Hey GolferLady6227,

Those are some great steps that you took on your own already. If you are using the "Hey Siri" command, check that you are using the feature correctly:

• To use Hey Siri on Apple Watch: wake the screen of your watch (by tapping it or by raising your wrist) and then say "Hey Siri".
• The screen must be awake for the feature to work.

• Use Siri on your Apple Watch

On your iPhone:

Go to: Settings > Siri:

• Check that Siri is enabled.

• Check that Allow Hey Siri is enabled.

• If these are already set correctly, try disabling Siri, pausing for a few moments and then re-enabling it.

Then go to: Settings > General > Restrictions - check that the restriction for Siri & Dictation is not enabled.

• Go to: Settings > General > Keyboard - check that Enable Dictation is turned on.

On your Apple Watch:

• When viewing the time on your watch, go to the Home screen by pressing the Digital Crown (round button) once.

• Go to: Settings (cog icon) > General > Siri > check that Hey Siri is turned on.

• Remove any protective case or film that you may be using on your watch if it is blocking the microphone port (the lower of the two ports on the opposite side to the buttons):

Clean your watch, paying particular attention to the microphone port, in case it has become blocked by debris.

• Be sure to follow Apple's cleaning instructions (do not insert anything into the port and do not use any compressed air).

• How to clean your Apple Watch

• Apple Watch User Guide

Let us know if these steps are helpful.

Cheers!

Hi GolferLady6227,

What happens when you attempt to use dictation? Is it completely unresponsive or doesn't pick up what you're saying? Do you get any type of error message? This information will help give us a clearer understanding on what you're experiencing.

Is the watchOS up to date? Updates contain many bug fixes that can help your Apple Watch to function as expected.

1. Make sure that your iPhone is updated to the latest version of iOS. Check out how to update here: Update your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support
2. Make sure that your Apple Watch is at least 50 percent charged.
3. Make sure that your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi.
4. On your iPhone, open the Watch app and tap the My Watch tab
5. Tap General > Software Update

Check out: Update your Apple Watch - Apple Support

If this continues after following those steps, you may want to reach out to Apple Support for further assistance.

Depending on your region, you may be able to reach them here: Get Support.

Take Care!