Troubleshooting Guide: Ambient Listening

Troubleshooting Guide: Ambient Listening

Overview

Use this guide to resolve common browser, microphone, and configuration issues that may affect Ambient Scribe functionality, such as:

  • Recording does not start

  • Transcript does not generate

  • Microphone is not detected

  • Audio lag

  • Transcript does not save

Before you begin, complete all steps outlined in Ambient Listening – Auto-Generate Notes from Client Sessions to ensure the feature is properly configured.


Recommended Browser and System Requirements

Supported Browsers

  • Google Chrome (latest version recommended)

  • Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based)

  • Safari (limited WebRTC and audio handling support)

  • Firefox (possible permission and audio device conflicts)

  • Internet Explorer (not supported)

💡 Best Practice

When troubleshooting, test in the latest version of Google Chrome first.

Microphone Not Detected

Symptoms

  • “No microphone found” message

  • Record button is disabled

  • No visible audio input activity

Steps to Resolve

Step 1: Verify Browser Permissions

  1. Click the lock icon (🔒) in the browser address bar.

  2. Confirm Microphone is set to Allow.

  3. Refresh the page.



Step 2: Check Operating System Permissions

Windows
  1. Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone.

  2. Ensure:

    • Microphone Access is turned on.

    • Browser access is enabled.


Mac
  1. Go to System Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone.

  2. Enable access for Chrome or Edge.



Step 3: Confirm Correct Input Device

  1. Open system Sound Settings.

  2. Verify the correct microphone is selected.

  3. Test input levels to confirm audio is detected.




Recording Starts But No Transcript Generates

Possible Causes

  • Network instability

  • Browser blocking background processing

  • Third-party extensions interfering

Steps

Disable Browser Extensions

Temporarily disable:

  • Ad blockers

  • Privacy blockers

  • Security extensions

  • Script blockers

Then reload ICANotes+ and test again.



Check Network Stability

  • Minimum recommended speed: 10 Mbps

  • Avoid using a VPN during testing

  • Avoid public Wi-Fi networks

Perform a Hard Refresh

  • Windows: Ctrl + Shift + R

  • Mac: Cmd + Shift + R


Ambient Scribe Does Not Save Properly

Symptoms

  • Transcript disappears

  • “Processing” remains indefinitely

  • Save fails

Troubleshooting Steps

  • Clear browser cache

  • Log out and log back in

  • Confirm the session has not timed out

  • Ensure the note is in Editable status (not locked)



Audio Quality Issues

If transcripts are inaccurate:

  • Use a wired headset when possible

  • Avoid Bluetooth devices in high-interference environments

  • Ensure the room is quiet

  • Speak clearly

  • Avoid overlapping speech


Browser-Specific Considerations

Google Chrome

  • Provides the best compatibility

Microsoft Edge

  • Ensure it is Chromium-based

  • Clear site permissions if microphone issues occur

Safari

  • May require repeated microphone permission approvals

  • Background tab processing may interrupt audio streaming


Advanced Diagnostic Steps

For technical users:

  1. Press F12 to open Developer Tools.

  2. Select the Network tab.

  3. Reproduce the issue.

  4. Capture screenshots of any red error messages.


Related Article



Need Help?

For further assistance, contact:
📞 Phone: 443-203-5857
📱 Text: 866-301-0085
📧 Emailticket@icanotes.com
💬 Chathttps://app.icanotes.com

Proprietary Notice Information: This article is provided for informational purposes only, and the information herein is subject to change without notice. While every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained within this article is accurate, ICANotes cannot and does not accept any type of liability for errors in, or omissions arising from the use of this information.
    • Related Articles

    • Ambient Listening - Auto-Generate Notes from Client Sessions

      Overview Ambient Listening is a powerful feature in ICANotes+ that automatically drafts a clinical note based on the provider's conversation with the client during a session. This feature uses ambient voice capture technology to listen passively in ...
    • Guide to Logging In to ICANotes+

      Overview This article provides a step-by-step guide to logging in to ICANotes+. It covers how to access the login page, complete the 2-Step Verification process (if enabled), set up your account for first-time use, and reset your password if needed. ...
    • Readability Enhancer: Use AI to Improve Your Note Content

      Overview The Readability Enhancer feature in ICANotes+ uses artificial intelligence (AI) to help improve the clarity and professionalism of your note content. You can refine the entire note or enhance specific sections based on your needs. ⚠️ ...
    • How to Convert Your ICANotes+ Trial to a Paid Subscription

      Overview This article provides a step-by-step guide for practice owners on how to transition from an ICANotes+ trial to a paid subscription. It covers two scenarios: Subscribing Before Your Trial Expires – Users can upgrade directly from the Chart ...
    • Using Dragon to Dictate in ICANotes+

      Overview We have tested and confirmed Dragon (Dragon Home 15) works very well right out of the box with ICANotes+. Here are some points to consider if you are planning to use Dragon to dictate in ICANotes+: Fields which involve numeric values (like ...