01 · Open
Use a supported browser
Open the document in the latest version of Chrome, Edge, or Safari, with a working computer microphone.
Google Docs voice typing guide
How to use voice typing in Google Docs
For speech-to-text in a Google Doc, start with Google Docs' built-in feature: open a document in the latest version of Chrome, Edge, or Safari, choose Tools > Voice typing, click the microphone, then speak. The browser controls the speech-to-text service, so browser support and microphone permissions matter.
Need the current product-specific steps? Open Google's Voice Typing guide.
Start with Google Docs' built-in voice typing
Google Docs is the shortest route when you only need speech-to-text in one document. Open the document in a supported browser first, then let the built-in microphone control handle the input.
02 · Start
Choose Tools > Voice typing
Open the Tools menu, choose Voice typing, then click the microphone when you are ready to speak.
03 · Review
Speak, then check the text
Speak at a normal pace, review what appears in the document, and correct any wording before you continue.
Choose the smallest tool that solves the job
Start with the built-in Google Docs option when one document is the whole task. Use a broader desktop workflow only when you want something available beyond a single browser feature.
Built in
Google Docs voice typing
Use it for speech-to-text in the current document when the built-in microphone control is enough.
Commands
Google Docs editing commands
Google documents voice commands for editing and formatting, with language requirements for those commands.
Desktop workflow
Cue
Use Cue when you want a configured desktop voice workflow that is available beyond a single product's voice typing feature.
Use commands only when the language setting fits
Google documents commands for selecting, formatting, and editing text after voice typing has started. Its current guidance says voice commands are available only in English, and both the account language and document language must be English.
If Google Docs cannot hear you
First, confirm that the document is open in a supported browser and that the microphone is permitted and working. Google suggests checking that the microphone is connected and not in use by another app; a quieter room, an external microphone, or a different input volume can also help.
A work or school administrator can turn voice typing off for an organization. If the menu item is missing, check the current Google guidance and your organization settings before assuming the browser is at fault.
When a desktop voice workflow fits better
Cue is a desktop voice AI for Mac & Windows: press a hotkey, speak, and it transcribes, sees your screen, and finishes the task in the app you're using. It is free to start. Choose the platform guide that matches the computer where you work.
Google Docs voice typing FAQ
Does Google Docs have voice typing?
Google documents voice typing for a document open in the latest versions of Chrome, Edge, or Safari. In Docs, choose Tools > Voice typing, then click the microphone to begin.
How do I turn on voice typing in Google Docs?
Open a document in a supported browser, choose Tools > Voice typing, then click the microphone when you are ready to speak.
Does Google Docs voice typing work on Mac and Windows?
Google's documented setup is browser based: open Google Docs in a supported browser and allow a working microphone. Check your computer's microphone permissions if the microphone does not start.
Why can't Google Docs hear me?
Check that the microphone is connected, permitted, and not being used by another app. Google also suggests trying a quieter room, an external microphone, or adjusting input volume.
Can I use voice commands to edit in Google Docs?
Google documents voice commands for editing and formatting. It says voice commands are available only in English, with both the account language and document language set to English.