How to Fix iPhone Microphone Not Working

Step by step

1. 2 min

   Test which microphone is affected

   Open Voice Memos and record a short message, then play it back to test the bottom microphone. Make a phone call and ask the other person if they can hear you clearly. Try recording a video in Camera app to test the back microphone. This identifies whether all microphones are affected or just specific ones.

   Note: iPhone has three microphones: bottom (calls/Voice Memos), back (video recording), and top (noise cancellation). Testing each one helps pinpoint the issue.
2. 3 min

   Remove case and clean microphone openings

   Remove your iPhone case completely. Locate the microphone holes at the bottom of your iPhone next to the Lightning port, and on the back near the camera. Use a dry toothbrush or soft-bristled brush to gently clean debris from these openings. Blow compressed air into the openings to remove stubborn particles.

   Note: Never use liquids or insert objects into microphone holes. Even tiny lint fibers can significantly muffle audio quality.
3. 2 min

   Check microphone permissions in Settings

   Open Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone. Review the list of apps and ensure important apps like Phone, Camera, and Voice Memos have microphone access enabled. Toggle off and on any apps that should have access but aren't working properly. Restart these apps after changing permissions.

4. 2 min

   Disable Bluetooth and test again

   Open Control Center by swiping down from the top-right corner. Tap the Bluetooth icon to disable it, or go to Settings > Bluetooth and toggle it off. Test your microphone again with Voice Memos and a phone call. Sometimes iPhone routes audio to connected Bluetooth devices even when you don't intend it to.

   Note: Check if AirPods or other Bluetooth devices are connected but out of range, causing audio routing issues.
5. 1 min

   Force restart your iPhone

   Press and quickly release Volume Up, press and quickly release Volume Down, then press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears. This clears temporary software glitches that may be affecting microphone functionality. Test the microphone immediately after the restart completes.

   Note: This force restart method works for iPhone 8 and later. For older models, hold Home + Power until you see the Apple logo.
6. 3 min

   Reset all settings

   Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings. Enter your passcode when prompted. This resets all system settings to defaults without deleting your data, photos, or apps. Your iPhone will restart automatically and you'll need to reconfigure Wi-Fi passwords and other preferences.

   Note: This step resolves most software-related microphone issues but requires reconfiguring your personalized settings afterward.
7. Variable

   Contact Apple Support for hardware repair

   If the microphone still doesn't work after trying all software solutions, the issue is likely hardware failure. Check if your iPhone is under warranty by going to Settings > General > About and noting your serial number. Contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for diagnostic testing and potential microphone replacement.

   Note: Hardware microphone repairs typically require professional service, but Apple may cover the cost if your device is under warranty or eligible for a known issue program.