The “microphone key” is a Dictation shortcut key with a microphone icon in the top row (function keys). Some MacBook Pros have it; others rely on the standard Dictation shortcut (often Fn twice) instead.
How to find it
- Look at the top row of keys for a microphone icon (Dictation key).
- If you have it: click into any text field and press the microphone key to start Dictation.
- If you don’t: use your configured Dictation shortcut instead.
Set or change the Dictation shortcut
- Open System Settings → Keyboard → Dictation.
- Find the Dictation Shortcut dropdown and choose an option (or Customize).
- Test it in Notes or any text box.
Tip: if you dictate frequently, Voice Type adds a separate hold-to-dictate hotkey that can feel more reliable than a start/stop toggle.