Phone calls can be frustrating when the person on the other end can’t hear you. This issue can happen for either physical (hardware) or software issues and if you’re suffering from it and your phone works when you’re on speaker mode, you can use this guide to narrow down the issue. The main causes are usually software glitches, volume settings, or hardware problems.
Many people try to fix this by adjusting their phone’s volume or restarting the device. These quick fixes sometimes work. If they don’t, there may be a deeper issue with the phone’s software or hardware.
Solving this problem can be simple or complex. It depends on what’s causing it. Some fixes you can try at home include checking for updates, cleaning the microphone, or using safe mode to rule out app conflicts.
Troubleshooting Steps
- Check for Obstructions:
- The Issue: Sometimes the microphone is simply blocked.
- Action: Make sure there’s nothing covering the microphone opening on your phone, like a case, dirt, or your finger.
- Clean the Microphone:
- The Issue: Dust or debris can accumulate in the microphone and affect its sensitivity.
- Action: Use a soft, dry brush or compressed air to gently clean the microphone opening.
- Restart Your Phone:
- The Issue: A temporary software glitch might be interfering with the microphone.
- Action: Restart your phone to see if that resolves the issue.
- Check Microphone Settings (if applicable):
- The Issue: Some phones have settings that allow you to adjust microphone sensitivity or select different microphones.
- Action: Explore your phone’s sound or call settings to see if there are any microphone-related options you can adjust.
- Test the Microphone in Other Apps:
- The Issue: The problem might be with a specific app, not the microphone itself.
- Action: Try using the microphone in other apps, like voice memos or video recording, to see if it works there.
- Check for Bluetooth Connections:
- The Issue: If your phone is connected to a Bluetooth headset or car system, it might be trying to use that microphone instead of the built-in one.
- Action: Disconnect from any Bluetooth devices to see if that resolves the issue.
- Update Your Phone’s Software:
- The Issue: Software updates often include bug fixes and improvements that can resolve microphone problems.
- Action: Make sure your phone’s software is up to date.
- Try a Different SIM Card:
- The Issue: In rare cases, a faulty SIM card might interfere with call audio.
- Action: If you have another SIM card, try inserting it into your phone to see if that makes a difference.
If You’re Still Having Trouble
If you’ve tried all of the above steps and you’re still unable to be heard on calls unless you’re on speakerphone, there might be a hardware problem with your phone’s microphone. In this case, you might need to contact your phone manufacturer or carrier for further assistance.
Key Takeaways
- Check volume settings and restart your phone first
- Software updates or safe mode can fix many call audio issues
- Clean the microphone or check for hardware damage if software fixes fail
Initial Troubleshooting Steps
When callers can’t hear you unless you’re on speaker, a few quick fixes may solve the problem. Check your phone’s hardware and settings to pinpoint the issue.
Checking Speaker and Earpiece Port
Start by looking at your iPhone’s earpiece and speaker ports. Dirt, dust, or debris can block sound. Clean these areas gently with a soft brush or compressed air. Don’t use liquids, as they may damage your phone. Next, test your microphone. Record a voice memo and play it back. If the sound is clear, your mic is working fine. If not, there might be a hardware issue. Try making a call with headphones. If the other person can hear you, the problem is likely with your phone’s built-in mic.
Adjusting Call Audio Routing and Phone Volume
Open your iPhone’s Settings app. Go to Accessibility, then Audio/Visual. Make sure Call Audio Routing is set to Automatic. This lets your phone choose the best audio output for calls. If it’s already on Automatic, try changing it to Speaker, then back to Automatic. This can reset the setting.
Check your phone’s volume. Press the volume up button during a call. If the volume is low, callers might have trouble hearing you. Also, look for a mute button on the call screen. Make sure it’s not activated by mistake.
Restart your iPhone. This can fix many software glitches. For newer models, press and quickly release the volume up button, then the volume down button. Then, press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.
Software Issues and Updates
Software problems can cause call audio issues on iPhones. These glitches may stop callers from hearing you unless you use speaker mode. Fixing these problems often involves finding and fixing software bugs or getting the latest updates.
Identifying Software Glitches
Software glitches can make it hard for others to hear you on calls. Signs of these issues include:
- Calls only working on speaker mode
- Sound cutting out during calls
- Microphone not picking up your voice
To check for glitches:
- Restart your iPhone
- Test calls in different apps
- Try calls with and without headphones
If the problem happens in all apps, it’s likely a system-wide issue.
Executing Software Updates
Updating your iPhone’s software can fix many call audio problems. Here’s how to update:
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update
- If an update is available, tap “Download and Install”
- Follow the on-screen steps to complete the update
Make sure your iPhone is charged and connected to Wi-Fi before updating. After the update, test your calls again. If issues persist, you may need to reset your iPhone’s settings or contact Apple Support for more help.
Addressing Hardware and Accessories
Phone cases and screen protectors can sometimes cause call issues. Hardware problems may also be to blame if callers can’t hear you unless on speaker.
Evaluating Protective Case and Screen Protector
Check if your phone case blocks the microphone. Remove the case and test a call. If people can hear you better, the case may be the problem. Look for small holes near the bottom of the case that line up with your phone’s microphones.
Some screen protectors can cover the top speaker. This may muffle your voice during calls. Take off the screen protector and try a call. If it helps, get a new protector that fits better.
Investigating Hardware Issue
A broken microphone could be why callers can’t hear you. To test this, record a voice memo. If the recording is clear, your mic likely works fine. If not, your phone may need repair.
Check for dirt in the microphone holes. Use a soft brush to gently clean them. Be careful not to push dirt further in. A can of compressed air can help remove stubborn debris.
If nothing else works, your phone may have internal damage. Take it to a repair shop or contact the maker for help.
