Having microphone issues in Google Meet is frustrating, especially when you need to actively participate in an important video call. But don't worry - with some simple troubleshooting, you can resolve the problem and get your microphone up and running again quickly.
In this post, we'll walk through the potential causes of and fixes for a non-working mic in Google Meet on both desktop and mobile. Follow the step-by-step instructions below to identify and resolve your particular microphone problem.
Check Your Microphone Settings
The first thing to check is your microphone settings within Google Meet. Make sure your mic is not muted and the correct input device is selected.
To check this on desktop:
- Click on the microphone icon in the bottom left corner of the meeting window.
- Make sure there is no red slash through the mic icon, indicating you are not muted.
- Click the ^ arrow next to the mic icon to select your input device. Make sure the correct mic is highlighted.
On mobile:
- Tap the three dot "more" menu in the top right of the meeting screen.
- Tap "Settings" then "Audio and Video".
- Make sure microphone is not turned off.
- Select the microphone you want to use.
If the incorrect input device is selected, switch to the proper mic and test it out. This simple fix solves many mic issues.
Check Physical Microphone Connections
If the microphone settings look correct but your mic still doesn't work, the problem may be your physical hardware setup. For a USB microphone or headset, check that the USB cable is fully plugged into your computer. Try unplugging it and reconnect it securely.
If you're using your computer's built-in microphone, make sure there is nothing physically blocking it. The mic is usually a tiny hole located near the webcam.
Finally, inspect your cables for any damage or kinks. A faulty cable can cause microphone connectivity issues. Consider replacing the cable if it looks worn.
Authorize Google Meet to Access Your Microphone
Google Meet requires your permission to access your microphone, especially when using the app for the first time. Make sure you have allowed Google Meet to use your microphone.
On desktop, look for a browser permission prompt in the URL bar or on the left side of the Omnibox that asks for permission to use your mic and camera. Click "Allow".
On mobile, go to your phone's app permissions settings and make sure Google Meet is allowed access to the microphone. You may need to toggle the permission off and on again to refresh it.
If access was previously blocked, granting permission should resolve Google Meet microphone problems.
Restart Your Device
One simple fix for any technology glitch - restart it! Restarting your computer or mobile device essentially refreshes the software, clearing out any errors.
Follow these steps:
- For a PC, go to the Start menu and select "Restart".
- For a Mac, go to the Apple menu and click "Restart".
- For mobile, power the device off completely and turn it back on.
Once restarted, launch Google Meet again and check if your microphone works. A restart cleans up temporary glitches.
Check Chrome Extensions
If you use the Google Meet web app in Chrome, a misbehaving browser extension could be the culprit. Open your list of Chrome extensions and disable any that could affect microphone access, namely ad blocker extensions.
Then, try Google Meet again. If the mic starts working, turn extensions back on one-by-one until you identify the problematic add-on. Remove that extension for good.
Note your Supernormal Chrome extension will never cause mic issues, so you don’t need to worry about that one!
Update Your Audio Drivers
Outdated audio drivers can cause microphone malfunctions. Updating them is an easy fix:
On Windows:
- Open Device Manager > Sound, video and game controllers.
- Right click your audio device and select Update driver.
- Search automatically for updated driver software and install it.
On Mac:
- Click the Apple icon > System Preferences > Software Update. Install any available updates.
- Also update audio drivers specifically: Apple icon > System Preferences > Sound. Select your input device and click Update Driver.
With updated drivers, check Google Meet again. The mic should work properly now.
Change Your Input Device
If your primary microphone isn't working, switching to another input device is worth trying for a quick fix:
- Plug in another USB mic or headset if available. Or,
- Use your phone's mic: join the Google Meet on your phone and use Call In or Hand Raise features.
This workaround allows you to join the meeting until you can troubleshoot the primary device issues.
Reset Google Meet
As a last resort, resetting Google Meet can force the app to reestablish permissions and settings required for microphone access.
On desktop:
- Go to meet.google.com
- Click on your profile icon > Help & Feedback > Reset Google Meet
On mobile:
- Tap your profile icon > Settings > Reset Google Meet
After resetting, sign into your Google account again, rejoin your meeting, and check if the microphone works properly. Resetting may clear up stubborn glitches.
And that covers the top ways to troubleshoot and fix a Google Meet microphone that is not working! In most cases, the problem is caused by an incorrect setting that can be quickly resolved. But for hardware-related issues, you may need to replace a faulty mic or cable. Hopefully, these troubleshooting tips get your microphone up and running again swiftly.
Want more hot tips and tricks for increasing your productivity at work by working smarter and not harder? We’ve got you covered. Supernormal is an AI notetaker that takes detailed meeting notes for you including a transcript, summary, and action items, saving you 5-10 minutes every meeting. Notes are shareable and fully customizable. You can learn more at Supernormal.com, and check out other articles about productivity hacks on the Supernormal blog.