Apple iPhones iPhone Microphone Not Working on Calls: How to Fix It Yourself
If people cannot hear you on calls, but speakerphone works, the bottom microphone is likely blocked or damaged. If no microphone works at all, it may be a software issue. These free troubleshooting steps fix the problem most of the time.
⚠️ Safety First
- Do not blow directly into the microphone hole — moisture from your breath can cause more damage.
- Be gentle when cleaning the microphone opening. Do not push debris further inside.
Parts You May Need
Step-by-Step Repair
- 1
Figure out which microphone is affected
Your iPhone has 3 microphones: bottom (for calls), front (for FaceTime), and rear (for video). Test each one. Record a voice memo to test the bottom mic. Make a FaceTime call to test the front mic. Record a video to test the rear mic. This tells you exactly which mic has the problem.
- 2
Remove your case and clean the microphone openings
Remove your phone case — some cases block the microphone holes. Use a soft brush or clean toothbrush to gently clean the microphone openings at the bottom of the phone, next to the front camera, and near the rear camera. Lint and debris from your pocket can block the tiny mic holes.
- 3
Check app permissions and Bluetooth
Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone and make sure the Phone app and other apps have microphone access. Also check that Bluetooth is off or that you are not connected to a headset that is capturing the audio instead of the phone mic.
- 4
Restart and update your phone
Force restart your iPhone. Then go to Settings > General > Software Update and install any available update. Software bugs can disable the microphone, and Apple has patched mic-related bugs in past updates.
- 5
Test in Safe Mode (disable third-party apps)
Some apps can take control of the microphone in the background. Restart your iPhone and immediately test a call before opening any other apps. If the mic works right after a fresh restart but fails later, a third-party app is likely the culprit. Delete recently installed apps one by one to find it.
If That Didn't Work
- A Bluetooth headset or car system may be capturing the audio instead of the phone mic.
- A phone case with a thick bottom edge can muffle or block the microphone.
- Water damage can corrode microphone connections.
- A noise-canceling feature can sometimes suppress your voice if there is loud background noise.
When to Call a Professional
If cleaning and software fixes do not help, the microphone hardware itself may be damaged — often from water exposure or a drop. Replacing the bottom mic involves opening the phone and swapping a small flex cable, which a repair shop can do in about 30 minutes.
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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional repair advice. All repairs are performed at your own risk. RepairItFree.com is not liable for any personal injury, property damage, device damage, voided warranties, or other losses resulting from the use of this information.
If you are unsure about any step — especially anything involving electricity, gas, water, or refrigerant — stop and consult a qualified professional. Your safety is more important than saving money.
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