iPhone Microphone Not Working? How to Fix It

Did You Know?

Quick answer: iPhone microphone problems are often caused by debris blocking the mic openings, software issues, or app permission settings. Clean the mic ports, check app permissions, and restart before assuming hardware failure.

When your iPhone microphone stops working, callers can't hear you, Siri doesn't respond, and voice recordings fail. If your speaker also isn't working, these issues are often related. This guide covers all the troubleshooting steps to identify whether it's a simple fix or requires professional repair.

iPhone Microphone Locations

Your iPhone has multiple microphones for different purposes. Understanding where they are helps diagnose which one isn't working:

How to Test Each Microphone

Test the Bottom Microphone

Open Voice Memos, record yourself speaking, and play it back. If you can hear yourself clearly, the bottom mic works.

Test the Front Microphone

Make a phone call on speakerphone or FaceTime call. If the other person can hear you, the front mic works.

Test the Rear Microphone

Record a video using the rear camera. Play it back and check if audio is clear. This tests the rear microphone.

Warning

Important: If one microphone works but others don't, this helps pinpoint the problem. If none work, it's likely a software issue or system-wide hardware problem.

Troubleshooting Steps

Step 1: Remove Case and Screen Protector

Some cases block microphone openings. Screen protectors that cover the front microphone can muffle sound. Remove them temporarily to test.

Step 2: Clean the Microphone Openings

Debris is the most common cause of microphone problems:

• Use a soft-bristled brush to gently clean all mic openings
• Use compressed air from a distance (never spray directly into ports)
• Don't use sharp objects — they can damage the microphone membrane
• Check for lint, dust, or pocket debris in the bottom mic area

Step 3: Check App Permissions

If the microphone works in some apps but not others, it's a permission issue: Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone. Ensure the problematic app has microphone access enabled.

Step 4: Disable Bluetooth

Your iPhone might be using a connected Bluetooth headset's microphone instead of the built-in ones. Turn off Bluetooth temporarily: Settings → Bluetooth → Off.

Step 5: Restart Your iPhone

A restart clears software glitches affecting the microphone. Hold Side + Volume Down (iPhone X and later) or Side button (iPhone 8 and earlier) until the power slider appears.

Step 6: Update iOS

Audio bugs are sometimes fixed in iOS updates. Go to Settings → General → Software Update and install any available updates.

Step 7: Reset All Settings

If software issues persist: Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Reset → Reset All Settings. This won't delete your data but resets system settings.

Specific Microphone Scenarios

Microphone Not Working During Calls

If callers can't hear you on phone calls:

• Check if you accidentally have the call on mute
• Test speakerphone — if that works, the bottom mic may be blocked
• Try using headphones with a built-in mic to isolate the issue
• Check if the issue happens with all callers or specific contacts

Siri Not Hearing You

If Siri doesn't respond to "Hey Siri":

• Go to Settings → Siri & Search → ensure "Listen for Hey Siri" is on
• Retrain Siri: Turn off "Hey Siri", restart, then turn it back on and follow setup
• Test if Siri works when you hold the side button instead

Voice Memos Recording Silence

If Voice Memos records but plays back silence:

• Check the bottom microphone for debris
• Ensure nothing is covering the mic while recording
• Test in a quiet environment — background noise cancellation might be aggressive

Video Recording Has No Sound

If videos have no audio or poor quality audio:

• Check the rear microphone (near camera) for debris
• Ensure your finger isn't covering the mic during recording
• Test with both front and rear cameras to isolate which mic is affected

UK Microphone Repair Costs

Pricing varies based on which microphone needs repair. Some microphones are part of larger assemblies (charging port, earpiece), affecting repair cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can't people hear me on calls but voice memos work?

This indicates the bottom microphone works but there's an issue with noise cancellation or the front microphone. During calls, multiple mics work together. Check app permissions, Bluetooth settings, and try speakerphone mode.

Can water damage cause microphone problems?

Yes. Water can enter through microphone openings and damage the sensitive components. If your phone was recently wet, let it dry completely before testing. Microphone issues after water exposure often indicate internal corrosion.

Why does my microphone work intermittently?

Intermittent microphone issues usually indicate a loose internal connection, debris partially blocking the mic, or software instability. A professional diagnostic can identify the exact cause.

Can I replace the iPhone microphone myself?

While technically possible with the right tools, microphone replacement risks damaging other components. The bottom mic is often integrated with the charging port assembly, making DIY repair complex. Professional repair is recommended.