iOS · iPhone & iPad
Fix an iPhone Microphone Not Working in Calls or Apps
Source-checked About 10 minutes
Answer
Clean and uncover the microphones, test Voice Memos and Camera, allow microphone access for the app, then isolate software from hardware failure.
Prepare the task and protect the current state
Record the device and accessory models, software versions, exact symptom, and whether a known-good comparison works. Avoid opening hardware, using liquid or sharp tools, or installing generic repair utilities. For this task, begin by confirming the supported prerequisite: Remove the case or screen protector if it covers an opening and gently clear dry debris without liquid or sharp tools.
Remove physical obstructions
Remove the case or screen protector if it covers an opening and gently clear dry debris without liquid or sharp tools.
Run Apple's recording tests
Record in Voice Memos and both Camera orientations, then play the results to identify which microphone path fails.
Check app permission
Open Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone and allow only the app that needs to record.
Update or seek service
Restart and update iOS; if Apple's tests remain silent or distorted, contact Apple for hardware service.
Verify the complete result
Repeat the intended action with a harmless test and confirm this final condition: Restart and update iOS; if Apple's tests remain silent or distorted, contact Apple for hardware service. Reopen the relevant settings or destination and compare the result with the recorded starting state before relying on it or deleting an original.
Use a reversible recovery path
If the expected result does not appear, undo only the latest change when possible, keep the original account, data, device configuration, or downloaded file intact, and compare the exact symptom with the linked Apple Support guidance. Record the product version, time, error, and checks already completed before contacting official support.
Video walkthrough
If it does not work
- If “Fix an iPhone Microphone Not Working in Calls or Apps” remains unresolved, identify which numbered step first produces a different result and preserve that screen or message. Recheck the account, permission, storage, connection, or device prerequisite described above, then follow only the matching Apple Support recovery path; do not combine unrelated resets, bypasses, or third-party repair tools.
Sources and verification
Checked against official documentation on . Scope: iPhone & iPad.
Follow the linked first-party guidance if labels differ after a platform or app update.