Why Hermes needs permissions
macOS protects your privacy by requiring apps to ask for permission before accessing sensitive features. Hermes needs a few permissions to function—here’s what each one does and how to grant it.Required permissions
Microphone
What it does: Lets Hermes hear your voice for dictation. Without it: Hermes can’t capture audio. Dictation won’t work at all.Accessibility
What it does: Lets Hermes type text into applications on your behalf. Without it: Hermes can transcribe your speech, but it can’t insert the text into apps.Input Monitoring
What it does: Lets Hermes detect when you press your dictation hotkey, even when other apps are in focus. Without it: Your hotkey will only work when Hermes is the active app.Troubleshooting permissions
Permission isn’t sticking
If you grant a permission but it doesn’t seem to work:- Quit Hermes completely (right-click the dock icon → Quit, or use ⌘Q)
- Remove Hermes from the permission list in System Settings
- Re-add Hermes to the permission list
- Restart Hermes
I don’t see Hermes in the list
- Make sure Hermes is installed in your Applications folder
- Launch Hermes at least once
- Check that you’re looking at the correct permission section
Permissions were denied by my organization
If you’re on a work computer, your IT department may restrict certain permissions. Contact them to allow Hermes access, or try using Hermes on a personal device.Still having trouble?
Troubleshooting guide
More detailed solutions for permission issues.
Quick reference
| Permission | Required? | What it enables |
|---|---|---|
| Microphone | Yes | Voice capture |
| Accessibility | Yes | Text insertion |
| Input Monitoring | Yes | Global hotkey |