iPhone Microphone Not Working? Here's the Fix

People say they can't hear you on calls. Voice memos record silence. Siri ignores you. Before you panic, your iPhone has three separate microphones, so testing tells you exactly which one needs help.

1. Test each microphone

• Bottom mic (calls, Siri): Voice Memos app, record, play back
• Front mic (FaceTime): Open FaceTime, call yourself or test with someone
• Back mic (video): Camera app, record a video, play back

This tells you which mic is the problem.

2. Disconnect Bluetooth devices

If AirPods or a car system are connected, the mic input goes there. Open Control Center, long-press the audio card, switch to iPhone Microphone. Or turn off Bluetooth entirely.

3. Check app permissions

If just one app (WhatsApp, Zoom, etc.) can't hear you: Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone. Make sure the app is toggled on.

4. Clean the microphone holes

The bottom mic is usually one of the small holes next to the lightning/USB-C port. Lint blocks it. Use a soft brush. Do not insert anything sharp into the holes.

5. Remove case and screen protector

Some cases cover the bottom mic. Some screen protectors block the front mic near the earpiece. Test without them.

6. Restart, then update iOS

Restart fixes audio glitches. Then check Settings > General > Software Update. Mic bugs sometimes get patched.

7. Reset settings (not data)

Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings. This wipes Wi-Fi passwords and preferences but keeps all your photos, apps, and contacts. Sometimes fixes weird audio issues.

If only the bottom mic is dead

Calls fail, Siri can't hear you, voice memos are silent, but FaceTime and videos work. This is a hardware repair. Apple charges around $130 for out-of-warranty mic repair on most models.