Open Settings > General > Keyboard. Turn on Enable Dictation. In a text input field, tap the microphone icon on the keyboard and start speaking. Spoken words are automatically converted into text.
Note: Some languages require an internet connection.
Speech-to-Text
Converts spoken words into written text.
What does this setting do?
Speech-to-text allows users to dictate instead of typing. This supports people with limited fine motor control, reduced input accuracy or anyone who can express themselves more easily and naturally by speaking. All major operating systems offer built-in dictation features integrated into text fields.
Instructions for different systems
Open Settings > System > Languages & input > Voice typing and enable Google voice typing. Then open any text field and tap the microphone icon on the on-screen keyboard to dictate text.
Note: Depending on the device, this setting may also be located under Languages & input > On-screen keyboard > Gboard > Voice typing.
Open Settings > Time & language > Speech. Select the speech recognition language and set up a microphone. To start dictation, press Windows key + H and speak into the microphone.
Note: An internet connection is usually required for dictation.
Open System Settings > Keyboard > Dictation. Enable Dictation and choose your preferred language. Press the Fn key twice (or the dedicated microphone key) to begin dictation.
Often mentioned in relation to the following conditions:
- Tremor – Minor hand tremors affecting precise touchscreen or mouse interactions.
- Arthrosis – Joint stiffness causing difficulty with fine motor control or repeated gestures.
- Reduced Motor Precision – Slower or less precise hand movement, often age-related or due to mild neurological changes.
- ADHD – Attention-deficit / hyperactivity-related difficulties such as distractibility, impulsivity, or sensitivity to visual motion.
- Age-related Cognitive Changes – Slower processing, reduced working memory, and difficulty with complex navigation.
- Chronic Fatigue – Persistent physical and mental exhaustion with limited energy availability. Attention, processing speed, and resilience are often reduced over extended periods.
Commonly used for the following difficulties:
Reduced Fine Motor Precision
Users with limited precision may find small touch targets difficult. Larger controls and assistive touch features improve accuracy.
Slow or Inaccurate Touch Input
Slow or unsteady hand movements can cause mis-taps. Gestural assistance, touch accommodations and extended press durations help reduce errors.
Difficulty with Repetitive Gestures
Repeated gestures like swiping or tapping can be tiring or painful. Gesture alternatives or voice control reduce physical strain.
Cognitive Overload
Complex or information-heavy interfaces can be overwhelming. Simplified layouts, reduced distractions and focus modes help manage cognitive load.
Other settings frequently used together
AssistiveTouch / Interaction Assistants
Key Repeat Rate
Keyboard Shortcuts / Access Keys
Slow Keys
Sticky Keys
Touch Accommodations
Haptic Feedback Intensity
Auto-Rotate Lock
Focus Mode / Do Not Disturb
Notification Summaries / Reduced Alerts
Reading Mode / Reader View
Reduce Background Activity / Power Saving Assist
Reduce Brightness / Dark Mode
Simplified UI Mode
Text-to-Speech
Relation to WCAG guidelines
For setting to be effective, a website or app often must be technically implemented in such a way that it respects operating system and browser settings.
Developers and designers should follow the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). The following WCAG criteria are particularly relevant for this setting:
2.1.12.1.22.5.1