Windows 10: Built in microphone will not function unless headphones are using "hands-free"

Discus and support Built in microphone will not function unless headphones are using "hands-free" in Windows 10 Drivers and Hardware to solve the problem; I just bought a Bose headset and it has a build in mic which works fine on my phone however, and I've had this problem before, the microphone is tagged... Discussion in 'Windows 10 Drivers and Hardware' started by KrisDarragh, Aug 1, 2021.

  1. Built in microphone will not function unless headphones are using "hands-free"


    I just bought a Bose headset and it has a build in mic which works fine on my phone however, and I've had this problem before, the microphone is tagged with the "hands-free AG audio". The playback has both the hands free and stereo options, and unless the actual playback portion is also tagged by "hands-free AG audio" rather than just using stereo, either the mic doesn't work, or the headphones don't work. I have tried using other drivers, updating windows, even incompatible drivers and using command prompt. This didn't use to be a problem as I've had Bluetooth headsets before. If anyone knows

    :)
     
    KrisDarragh, Aug 1, 2021
    #1
  2. SupaCrow Win User

    Headphone with built in microphone uses as Microphone, not Headphone


    Okay, so I have an Asus laptop with Windows 10. I am using an Ultimate Ears Headphone with built in microphone. The problem is that i want to use the headphone part, but all the the laptop registers is the microphone.
    Built in microphone will not function unless headphones are using "hands-free" [​IMG]

    How can I change this, as i cannot watch videos without disturbing others.
     
    SupaCrow, Aug 1, 2021
    #2
  3. MisterEd Win User
    Computer Won't Use Headphone Mic

    Are you using a wired or wireless connection?

    If you are using Bluetooth you will find there is a gotcha when using a headset with a microphone. With Bluetooth 4.x there is not enough bandwidth for both the headset's stereo speakers and the microphone at the same time. If the headset's speakers are used in mono mode then the microphone will work. Here is the information from my computer:
    I I left-click on speaker icon on taskbar tray I see my options for the speakers:

    • Speakers (Realtek High Definition Audio) = Laptops built-in speakers
    • Headphones (Arctis 3 Bluetooth Stereo) = Headphones stereo mode
    • Headphones (Arctis 3 Bluetooth Hands-Free AG Audio) = Headphones mono mode
    I found out that if I select "Headphones (Arctis 3 Bluetooth Hands-Free AG Audio)" the headset microphone will work.

    Built in microphone will not function unless headphones are using "hands-free" [​IMG]


    However, I found that next time the computer might choose "Headphones (Arctis 3 Bluetooth Stereo)". Then the headset speakers will work but the the headset microphone will not work.

    To ensure that the right selection is always done automatically I have to go further and set the default to "Headphones (Arctis 3 Bluetooth Hands-Free AG Audio)".
    Note I can always override this at any time. To do this...
    I right-click on speaker icon on taskbar tray and left-click on Sounds

    Built in microphone will not function unless headphones are using "hands-free" [​IMG]


    The first tab Playback is for the speakers

    • Headset = Headphones mono mode
    • Headphones = Headphones stereo mode
    • Speakers = Laptops built-in speakers

    Built in microphone will not function unless headphones are using "hands-free" [​IMG]



    The second tab Recording is for the microphone

    • Headset = Headset's microphone
    • Microphone Array = Laptop's built-in microphone
    • Stereo Mix = N/A

    Built in microphone will not function unless headphones are using "hands-free" [​IMG]


    To ensure that both the headset speakers and microphone work at the same time I set the default playback to Headset. This will put the headset in mono mode and allow the microphone to work. Note that if I disconnect the headset the computer will automatically revert back to using the built-in speakers and microphone.
     
    MisterEd, Aug 1, 2021
    #3
  4. Built in microphone will not function unless headphones are using "hands-free"

    In-Built Microphone Not Working.

    Hi Siddharth,


    Thank you for posting in Microsoft Community.

    - What is the make and model of your computer ?

    - What is the current build installed in your computer ?

    This issue might be because of settings related to the Microphone.

    The issue can be resolved by making Microphone as the default device and updating the sound card drivers.

    Step 1: Ensure the headphone or microphone is fully and firmly inserted into the correct jack.

    Step 2: Plug in the headphone or microphone and see if the same shows up in Control Panel.

    Step 3: Check the volume property. Ensure that it’s not mute.

    Method 1:
    Please follow the instruction

    a) Right-click on sound icon in the taskbar and select “Recording Devices”.

    See if the Microphone is listed.

    b) If not, right-click on the blank area and select “Show Disabled Devices”.

    c) Right-click on your microphone and select “Enable”.

    Method 2:

    I would also suggest you to make your headphone as the default device when it is plugged in.

    This may happen when you have the external speakers set to default.

    Perform the task mentioned below to set headphones as default:
    1. On the start screen of windows 8 press the ‘Windows key + X’ key on the keyboard and then click on control panel and then Hardware and sound option.

    2. Click in Sound, then a new window will open up.

    3. In the new windows click on the tab "Playback" and right click in the window and click on Show Disabled devices.

    4. Now check if headphones are listed there and right click on it and choose enable.

    5. Highlight that headphones and click on "Set as Default".

    Refer the below article as reference :

    Fix sound problems in Windows 10

    Let us know if this helps.

    Keep us posted for further assistance, we are here to assist you.
     
    Akheel Ahmed, Aug 1, 2021
    #4
Thema:

Built in microphone will not function unless headphones are using "hands-free"

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