The short answer
- 1Voice messages that won't record usually mean no microphone permission.
- 2Hold to record, or slide up to lock; a tap switches to round video.
- 3Silent playback is usually Raise to Listen, media volume or Bluetooth.
In this article
Can't record: the microphone
When you press and hold the microphone button and nothing records, or Telegram says "Telegram needs microphone access so that you can send voice messages.", the app does not have permission to use the microphone.
- Android: phone Settings, Apps, Telegram, Permissions, and turn Microphone on, as the app's own hint says.
- iPhone: phone Settings, Telegram, and turn Microphone on.
- Computer: the system's privacy settings must allow Telegram to use the microphone, and the right input device must be chosen in Telegram's call and voice settings.
Other things that stop recording:
| Symptom | Cause |
|---|---|
| Recording stops as soon as you let go | That is how it works: hold to record, or slide up to lock and record hands-free |
| The button records video instead of voice | A tap switches between voice and round video: "Hold to record audio. Tap to switch to video." |
| Another app is using the microphone | A call or recording app holds it; close it and try again |
| "… doesn't accept voice messages." | The other person's privacy setting; send text instead |
| On Telegram Desktop, nothing records | "Please hold the mouse button pressed to record a voice message." |
Can't hear: the speaker
A voice message that plays but cannot be heard is usually going to the wrong place:
- Earpiece instead of loudspeaker. With Raise to Listen on, holding the phone near your face switches sound to the earpiece. If you hold the phone close while looking at it, the sound may go quiet. Hold it away, or turn Raise to Listen off.
- Media volume. Voice messages use the media volume, not the ringer. Turn it up while a message plays.
- Bluetooth. Headphones or a car may still be connected and playing the sound elsewhere.
Not available on this device.
- Settings tab
- Chat Settings
- Raise to Listen
- Bottom Settings tab
- Data and Storage
- Raise to Listen
- Raise to Listen - plays voice messages through the earpiece when the phone is at your ear
- Microphone for voice messages - which microphone records
On Android the same section has Microphone for voice messages, which chooses between the phone's built-in microphone and a connected headset. If recordings sound muffled or silent with headphones connected, switch it back to built-in.
A voice message that will not download
Voice messages are small, but they still download first. If the play button never appears, check the connection; see media won't download.
Next step: Telegram Desktop won't start or closes right away.
FAQ
Why can't I record voice messages on Telegram?
Telegram may not have microphone permission. Allow Microphone for Telegram in the phone's settings.
Why can't I hear Telegram voice messages?
Raise to Listen may switch sound to the earpiece, the media volume may be low, or Bluetooth headphones are connected.
Why does the record button make a video instead of audio?
A tap switches between voice and round video. Tap once to switch back to audio.
Sources
At a glance
- 1Record
Allow Microphone; hold or lock the button.
- 2Listen
Media volume up; check Raise to Listen and Bluetooth.
- 3Refused
Some people do not accept voice messages.
Updated
