Willow for iOS works as a custom voice-first keyboard, so there are a couple of important permissions we need before dictation can run smoothly. These are requested automatically during onboarding, so most people won’t need to change anything. But if dictation isn’t working or the keyboard isn’t appearing, the steps below will help you troubleshoot.
Why We Ask for These Permissions
Microphone Access
Willow uses your iPhone’s microphone to capture your voice and convert it into text. This is essential for dictation.
Keyboard Access
Willow appears as an additional keyboard on your device — similar to switching between English, emoji, or another language keyboard.
This access allows you to:
Switch to the Willow Keyboard whenever you want to dictate
Switch back to your default keyboard instantly
Use Willow in any app where you normally type
Full Keyboard Access
iOS requires “Allow Full Access” for third-party keyboards so they can function fully.
In Willow’s case, Full Access is used to:
Process your dictation and insert text into the app you’re using
Trigger voice input from within the keyboard
Let the keyboard respond and update instantly during dictation
Without Full Access, Willow can appear, but it won’t be able to perform voice typing reliably.
Handled Automatically During Setup
When you first install Willow for iOS, we guide you through enabling:
Keyboard Access
Allow Full Access
Microphone Access
This takes only a few taps, and once completed, the Willow Keyboard becomes available system-wide.
Manual Setup (For Troubleshooting)
If dictation isn’t working or the Willow Keyboard doesn’t show up when you switch keyboards, you can manually check or re-enable permissions.
Enable Keyboard + Full Keyboard Access
Go to: Settings → General → Keyboard → Keyboards → Willow → Turn on “Allow Full Access”
Enable Microphone Access
Go to: Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone → Make sure Willow is turned ON
If the Willow Keyboard Isn’t Appearing
Sometimes iOS needs a quick refresh before new keyboards show up.
Try these steps:
Force-quit the app where you’re trying to type (swipe up from the bottom and flick it away).
Reopen the app and tap into any text field.
Press and hold the globe key or keyboard icon.
Select Willow from your keyboard list.
If you don’t see the keyboard settings menu for Full Access, repeat the steps above and try again. A quick force-restart of the app usually makes everything appear.
Still having trouble?
Reach out anytime at [email protected] - we’re happy to help.