Push-to-Talk Setup

LotusQ uses push-to-talk by default. Press and hold a key to record, release it to transcribe and insert text into your active application.

This gives you full control over when LotusQ listens: in push-to-talk, it never records in the background. In hands-free mode (Settings → General → Activation method), the microphone stays open and LotusQ decides when you start and stop speaking; audio leaves your computer only for the speech it detects.

F1 is the default dictation key.

You can change it in Settings → General → Dictation trigger. Any key, mouse button, or key combination works on Windows and Linux; on a Mac, use a key or combination, or the Globe (fn) key. On a MacBook, hold Fn with the F-keys.

In hands-free mode, F8 pauses and resumes listening (Settings → General → Pause dictation shortcut).

F6 is the default Compose key. Hold it to use Compose: say what to write, or select text and say how to change it.

Go to Settings → General → Input device to select your preferred microphone. LotusQ lists all available audio inputs.

Tip: Use a dedicated microphone or headset for best results. Built-in laptop mics work but may pick up more background noise.

LotusQ plays short tones to confirm when it is listening:

• A rising tone: recording started
• A falling tone: recording stopped
• A three-step rising tone: Compose started

Adjust the volume in Settings → Behaviour → Beep volume; at zero, the tones are off.