Apple's Live Caption generates real-time text transcriptions for audio on a MacBook or live in the classroom. It converts spoken words from videos, calls, or live instruction into readable text, helping students process information, stay focused in noisy rooms, and follow lessons at their own pace.
Go to System Settings.
In the left-hand menu, select Accessibility.
Then select Live Captions under the Hearing heading.
In the Live Caption menu, toggle on Live Caption.
*Note: These steps only need to be followed once, and Live Caption will be enabled.
Adjust font family, size, color, or background color based on your personal preference.
Once Live Caption is enabled, the Live Caption Icon should appear in the top-right menu bar of the screen.
Select Start Live Captions to get the caption box to appear.
Note: If the caption box does not pop up, select Restore Default Position to bring it to the bottom center of the screen.
A gray box will appear on screen with microphone icons on both the left and right sides. The left microphone controls audio captured from your computer mic, while the right microphone controls audio coming directly from the device, such as a video or podcast.
Last Edited: August 28, 2026