How to Fix Cannot Install Enhanced Speech Recognition on Windows 11

Enhanced Speech Recognition in Windows 11 improves voice typing accuracy, dictation capabilities, and overall speech-to-text performance. It is particularly useful for accessibility, productivity, and hands-free interaction with the operating system. However, some users encounter installation failures when trying to download or enable this feature.

One common issue is Error 0x80073D21, which typically appears when Windows fails to install the required speech components. This error can prevent the Enhanced Speech Recognition feature from downloading properly through Windows Settings. Resolving the issue requires correcting system configuration problems and ensuring required services are running.

This guide explains how to fix the “Cannot install Enhanced Speech Recognition on Windows 11, Error 0x80073D21” issue using structured troubleshooting steps.

How to Fix Cannot Install Enhanced Speech Recognition on Windows 11, Error 0x80073D21

Follow the solutions below in order until the issue is resolved.

1. Check Your Internet Connection

Enhanced Speech Recognition requires a stable internet connection to download language and speech components.

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Click Network & Internet.
3. Confirm that you are connected to Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
4. Open a browser and verify that websites load correctly.
5. If your connection is unstable, restart your router and reconnect.

After confirming a stable connection, try installing Enhanced Speech Recognition again.

2. Install the Required Language Pack

Enhanced Speech Recognition depends on the correct language pack being installed.

1. Open Settings using Windows + I.
2. Click Time & language, then select Language & region.
3. Under Preferred languages, verify that your primary language is installed.
4. If not installed, click Add a language and select your preferred language.
5. Click Next, ensure Speech is selected, and complete the installation.

Once the language pack is fully installed, restart your computer and attempt the installation again.

3. Restart Windows Update Services

Error 0x80073D21 may occur if Windows Update services are not functioning correctly.

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Locate Windows Update in the list.
3. Right-click it and select Restart.
4. Locate Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS).
5. Right-click it and select Restart.
6. Close the Services window.

After restarting these services, return to Settings and try installing Enhanced Speech Recognition again.

4. Reset the Microsoft Store Cache

Since Enhanced Speech Recognition components may rely on Microsoft Store infrastructure, clearing the Store cache can resolve the error.

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type wsreset.exe and press Enter.
3. Wait for Command Prompt to open and close automatically.
4. Restart your PC.

After rebooting, attempt the installation again.

5. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

The built-in troubleshooter can automatically detect and fix update-related issues.

1. Open Settings with Windows + I.
2. Click System, then select Troubleshoot.
3. Click Other troubleshooters.
4. Locate Windows Update and click Run.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Once finished, restart your computer and try enabling Enhanced Speech Recognition again.

6. Install Pending Windows Updates

Outdated system files can trigger installation errors like 0x80073D21.

1. Open Settings using Windows + I.
2. Click Windows Update from the left pane.
3. Select Check for updates.
4. Download and install all available updates.
5. Restart your PC after updates complete.

Keeping Windows 11 fully updated ensures compatibility with speech features and system components.

Conclusion

Error 0x80073D21 when installing Enhanced Speech Recognition on Windows 11 is typically related to update services, missing language packs, or system configuration issues. By verifying your internet connection, installing the correct language components, restarting Windows Update services, and ensuring your system is fully updated, the issue can usually be resolved.