What Does This Error Mean?

Meta Quest microphone not working is most often caused by the app not having microphone permission, a muted mic in the party or game settings, or the microphone input being set to a connected headset instead of the built-in mic. Check permissions in Settings > Privacy > Microphone first.

Affected Models

Meta Quest 2
Meta Quest 3
Meta Quest 3S
Meta Quest Pro

Common Causes

App does not have microphone permission granted in Quest settings
Mic muted in the party or game voice chat settings
Audio input set to a connected Bluetooth or wired headset
Foreign object or debris blocking the Quest microphone port
Firmware bug causing microphone to not initialize

How to Fix It

Check microphone permissions.

Go to Settings > Privacy > Permissions Manager > Microphone. Find the app you are having trouble with and ensure microphone access is set to Allowed. Some apps will not prompt for permission automatically and need to be enabled manually.
Check in-game and party mute settings.

Many Quest games and the Meta Party system have their own mute buttons independent of headset settings. Look in the game's voice chat settings or the universal menu's party panel for a mute toggle. Also check if Push-to-Talk is enabled — your mic may only activate when you press a button.
Check the audio input source.

If a Bluetooth headset or wired headphone is connected, the Quest may have switched audio input to that device. Go to Settings > Device > Audio and verify the microphone source is set to the Quest's built-in microphone.
Inspect the microphone port.

The Meta Quest has small microphone openings on the front of the headset. Inspect them for debris or adhesive residue from face gaskets. Gently blow air across the openings — do not insert anything inside the microphone holes.
Restart the headset.

Press the power button and select Restart. A firmware crash can prevent the microphone from initializing properly. After the restart, test the mic using the Meta voice command ('Hey Meta') or in a voice chat app.

When to Call a Professional

If the microphone does not work in any app after confirming all permissions and settings, and a factory reset does not fix it, the built-in microphone may have failed. Contact Meta support.