My iPhone microphone stopped working. When I make calls, nobody hears me. Even voice notes come out silent. I’m not sure what’s causing it. Does anyone have any ideas on how to fix this?
This is a common problem for iPhone users. If your calls also drop unexpectedly, check out our iPhone Call Failed guide. Here’s what you can do to solve mic issues.
If the iPhone microphone stops working, many important tasks might be disrupted. During calls, FaceTime chats, or voice recordings, people may not hear you. Here are some ways to troubleshoot.
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How to Fix the Microphone on an iPhone – 11 Ways
Test the Microphone
Using Voice Memos
- Open the Voice Memos app.
- Make sure you’re not covering the mic with your fingers.
- Tap the red record button, speak, then tap it again to stop.
- Play the recording to check if you can hear your voice.
Using Siri
- Press and hold the Home or Side/Power button until Siri appears.
- Ask Siri a question.
- If she doesn’t respond correctly, try speaking louder or closer to the mic.
Use the Camera or FaceTime
- Open the Camera app.
- Switch to Video mode and record yourself speaking.
- Play the video to see if you can hear your voice.
1. Remove iPhone Case or Screen Protector
A case, thick screen protector, or accessory might partially block or muffle the microphones. Take it off, then test the mic again.
2. Turn Off Noise Cancellation (for Older iPhones)
On some older iPhones, there is a setting called “Phone Noise Cancellation” that can reduce background noise during calls. Try disabling it:
- Go to Settings > General > Accessibility.
- Scroll down, find Phone Noise Cancellation, and toggle it off if it is on.
Newer iPhones (from iPhone 13 onward) may not include that setting. Always check what your specific model supports.
3. Restart Your iPhone
A simple restart often clears up software glitches that interfere with the mic.
- Press and hold the Sleep/Wake (or Side) and Volume Down (or Up) buttons (depending on model) until the power-off slider appears.
- Slide to power off and wait 10–20 seconds.
- Press and hold the power/side button again to turn it on.
4. Disable Bluetooth / Disconnect Audio Accessories
Sometimes your iPhone routes audio input through connected Bluetooth headsets, AirPods, or external mics, which may cause issues.
- Go to Settings > Bluetooth and turn it off.
- Disconnect any audio accessories or remove wired headphones.
- In Control Center, check the audio routing (tap the audio output icon) and ensure “iPhone” is selected.
5. Ensure Nothing Is Blocking the Microphones
iPhones typically have multiple microphone openings (bottom edge, front earpiece, rear camera area). Make sure no debris, lint, or case edge is blocking these. Gently clean them using a soft brush or dry microfiber cloth. Avoid compressed air as it may damage the mic membranes.
6. Force Quit or Reopen the App
If the microphone problem occurs in a specific app (e.g. WhatsApp, Zoom), closing and reopening the app may help.
- On newer iPhones, swipe up from the bottom and pause in the middle, then swipe the app away.
- On older models with a Home button, double-press Home and swipe up the app.
7. Check Microphone Permissions for Apps
Some apps need permission to access your microphone. If permission is off, the mic won’t work inside that app.
- Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone.
- Make sure the app in question is allowed to use the mic (toggle is on).
8. Update iOS
Software bugs in iOS may cause microphone problems. Many users report mic issues that were fixed after updating. Apple’s “If the microphones on your iPhone aren’t working” support article confirms updating is often a first recommendation.
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- If an update is available, tap Install Now.
9. Reset All Settings
Resetting all settings can fix misconfigurations without erasing your personal data. But it will clear WiFi passwords, VPN profiles, and preferences.
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
- Tap Reset All Settings.
- Enter your passcode if prompted.
10. Erase iPhone (Factory Reset)
If none of the above fixes the mic, you may need to erase all data and settings. Always back up first.
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
- Enter your passcode, then confirm Erase iPhone.
11. Restore via Computer (DFU or Standard Restore)
As a last resort, restore the iPhone via a computer (Mac or PC) using Finder or iTunes. A DFU restore is the deepest restore and may fix firmware-level issues.
- Connect your iPhone to a Mac or PC and unlock it if needed.
- Open Finder (macOS) or iTunes (Windows).
- Select your iPhone.
- Choose Restore iPhone (or perform DFU mode if standard restore doesn’t help).
If none of these steps fix the microphone, contact Apple or visit an Apple Store or authorized repair provider for further help.
FAQs
Why can’t anyone hear me on calls?
It might be because the mic is blocked by a case, dirt, or misconfiguration. Or a software bug or a hardware issue.
Do I need to replace the mic if it stops working?
Not always. Try all the fixes above first. If the problem persists, the microphone hardware might be faulty and need servicing or replacement.
Can Bluetooth interfere with my microphone?
Yes. Connected devices may redirect audio input away from the iPhone mic. Turning off Bluetooth or disconnecting accessories can restore normal mic function.
Does updating iOS help with mic issues?
Yes. Apple and many tech outlets recommend updating iOS since firmware updates often fix microphone-related bugs. Apple’s official microphone troubleshooting page includes this step.
Does cleaning the mic holes risk damage?
Use only gentle tools (soft brush, microfiber cloth). Avoid compressed air or anything sharp, as these can damage internal mic components.
