What push-to-talk is
Push-to-talk works like a walkie-talkie: your microphone is closed by default and only opens while you hold a key or button. Let go, and it is closed again.
The alternative is voice activation: the microphone transmits automatically whenever you speak. That is more comfortable in quiet places, but it also picks up keyboard clicks, a TV or people in the room.
When push-to-talk makes sense
- Gaming, where a noisy keyboard or game sound would otherwise reach everyone.
- Large voice rooms, where short, deliberate contributions keep things clear.
- Open-plan offices or shared flats, when other people talk around you.
- Coordinated groups such as raids, events or stewards, where only one person should talk at a time.
Push-to-talk in Coviqo
You choose the input mode – voice activation or push to talk – in the voice settings. In the desktop app the push-to-talk key is a global hotkey, so it works while another window or a game has the focus.
Coviqo also has radio: press a key to talk into other voice rooms without leaving your own – the same principle, across rooms.
Frequently asked questions
Does push-to-talk work in the browser?
Yes, while the Coviqo tab has the focus. If the key should also work while you are in another app or a game, use the desktop app.
Can I switch between push-to-talk and voice activation?
Yes, at any time in the voice settings.