Cubby Calls uses Spoke, a cloud-based phone system that runs in your browser. To make and receive calls reliably, your device, audio setup, and network need to meet the following requirements.
Device and browser
Browser: Google Chrome (strongly recommended). Spoke's audio engine is optimized for Chrome. Safari, Firefox, and Edge may work but are not officially supported for calls.
Operating system: Windows 10+, macOS 11+, or ChromeOS. Mobile devices (iOS/Android) have limited support — use a desktop or laptop for the best call experience.
Microphone permission: Chrome must have permission to access your microphone. If prompted when a call starts, click Allow. To check: Chrome Settings → Privacy and security → Site settings → Microphone — confirm Cubby is not blocked.
Audio devices
Headset (recommended): A USB or 3.5mm headset with a built-in microphone gives the best call quality. Wired USB headsets have lower latency and more consistent quality than Bluetooth.
Built-in microphone: Laptop microphones work but pick up more background noise and echo. A headset is strongly preferred in front-desk or office environments.
Speakers: If you use external speakers instead of a headset, position them away from the microphone to prevent echo. A headset eliminates this problem entirely.
⚠️ Echo or feedback during calls? This almost always means audio is routing through speakers rather than a headset. Switch to a headset with a built-in microphone to resolve it immediately.
Network requirements
Minimum bandwidth: 1 Mbps upload and download per active call.
Connection type: A wired Ethernet connection is preferred over Wi-Fi for call stability. If on Wi-Fi, ensure you have strong signal at your workstation.
VPN: If your facility uses a VPN, check with your IT team that Spoke and WebRTC traffic is not blocked or routed through a congested VPN tunnel — this is a common cause of one-way audio.
Quick fixes for audio issues
Refresh the Cubby page — Spoke re-initializes the audio device on each page load.
Check that your headset is selected as the default audio device in your OS sound settings (not just plugged in).
Unplug and replug USB headsets if Chrome is not detecting them.
For persistent issues, see Troubleshoot Cubby Calls and Spoke issues.