iPhone microphone not working? How to test and fix it

Your iPhone® microphone helps you perform various tasks, from making phone calls to recording voice memos and asking Siri questions. When it stops working, it can significantly disrupt your daily activities and communication. In this guide, we’ll show you how to diagnose microphone issues on your iPhone and walk you through simple to advanced fixes. 

Common signs of microphone problems

Before walking you through the process of troubleshooting a dysfunctional iPhone mic, you need to know the signs of a faulty microphone. These include:

• People being unable to hear you during phone or FaceTime® calls
• Siri® failing to respond to voice commands
• Voice memos or videos with distorted or no audio
• Apps that require microphone input are failing to work properly
• Audio recordings sounding muffled or unusually quiet

If you’re experiencing one or more of these issues, you should test your iPhone’s microphone.

Testing your iPhone microphone

iPhones have multiple microphones, usually near the top, bottom, and back of the device. Here’s how to test each:

1. Record a voice memo: Record a short voice memo to check microphone clarity. This usually tests the bottom microphone.
2. Use the Camera App in video mode: Record a video with the front-facing camera (which uses the top microphone) and record a video. Then, switch to the rear-facing camera (which uses the bottom microphone) and record again. This way, you can test the top and bottom microphones. Listen to the audio in both videos for quality.
3. Test with Siri or phone calls: Ask Siri a basic question like “What’s the weather today?” If Siri doesn’t respond or asks you to repeat, the microphone may not be working properly. Additionally, try making a phone call to check if the other person can hear you.
4. Try speakerphone and FaceTime: Switching to speakerphone or FaceTime during a call activates the top microphone. If either of them works better than standard calls, the issue might be isolated to the bottom microphone.

Fixing microphone issues on your iPhone

If your microphone test results were poor, try these quick solutions:

1. Clean the microphone openings: Dirt and debris can clog your iPhone’s microphone ports. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a dry anti-static brush to gently clean around the mic holes.
2. Remove the case or screen protector: Some phone accessories may block your iPhone’s microphone. Temporarily remove your case or screen protector and test the microphone again.
3. Restart your iPhone: A simple restart can fix minor software glitches. On iPhones without a home button, press and hold the side button and either volume button until the power-off slider appears. For iPhones with a Home button, press and hold the side or top button.
4. Update iOS: Outdated software can cause hardware malfunctions. Go to Settings > General > Software Update to check for the latest version of iOS and install it if available.
5. Check App microphone permissions: Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone. Make sure the apps you’re using have access. If an app is missing, you may need to reinstall it or sign in again.
6. Reset all settings: If the problem persists, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings. This won’t delete your data, but it will reset Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, and settings like permissions, which could resolve microphone issues.

Advanced troubleshooting steps

If basic solutions don’t resolve the issue, try these next-level fixes:

1. Use diagnostic tools or tech support: You can run diagnostic checks using Apple Support or through apps like Apple’s built-in diagnostics (available via support sessions). These tests can pinpoint hardware issues, such as problems caused by water exposure.
2. Backup and restore your iPhone: Corrupted software can affect microphone performance. Back up your data via iCloud or iTunes, and then restore your iPhone to its factory settings. Then test the mic before restoring apps.
3. Try external microphones: If the audio coming through external microphones, such as Bluetooth headsets, is good, your iPhone's internal mic hardware may be damaged.

FAQ

What settings affect microphone access on iPhone?

Microphone access is controlled under Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone. Makae sure the switch is on for the apps you’re using.

Can a software update fix microphone issues?

Yes. Updates often include bug fixes that can resolve microphone issues related to iOS glitches or compatibility problems.