how do I get microphone array?

Question

How do I get and install microphone array xxxxxxxxxx?

Answer 1

On Windows 11, a “Microphone Array” is not something that is installed separately like an app; it is a hardware feature built into the PC (for example, dual Studio Mics on Surface devices) plus its audio driver. To “get” a microphone array, the device itself must include array microphones and the correct driver.

On a PC that already has a built‑in microphone array (such as many Surface models):

1. Open Start > Settings > System > Sound.
2. Under Input, select Microphone Array as the input device.
3. To adjust volume and effects, install and open the Dolby Access app from Microsoft Store as described in the Surface guidance.

If Microphone Array does not appear under Input:

• The PC likely does not have a built‑in microphone array, or
• The audio driver from the PC manufacturer is missing or not installed correctly.

In that case, install or reinstall the audio driver from the PC or motherboard manufacturer’s support site. Once the correct driver for a device that physically includes an array is installed, Windows will expose it as Microphone Array in Settings.

External USB microphone arrays that correctly describe their geometry in the USB descriptor are also supported by the Windows USB audio driver; when such a device is plugged in, it will appear automatically as an input device.

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References:

• Audio
• How to adjust settings for Studio Mics on Surface