12 Common iPhone 7 Problems and How to Fix Them

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Running into issues with your iPhone 7 or 7 Plus? Whether it’s dropping calls, microphone problems, or texting headaches, you’re not alone. Here’s a guide with real user complaints and straightforward fixes to help you sort things out.

1. iPhone 7 Hotspot Uses Up Mobile Data Fast

If your hotspot is draining your data almost immediately:

  • Check if other devices are connected and downloading large files without you noticing.
  • Disable the hotspot when not in use and monitor your data for a month.
  • If the issue continues, contact your carrier for a deeper data usage breakdown.

2. iPhone 7 Can’t Text During Calls

On CDMA networks (like US Cellular), you can’t send SMS while on a call.

  • Fix: Connect to Wi-Fi while talking — Wi-Fi lets you browse and send messages even during calls.

3. Messages App Crashing and Overheating

If Messages crashes or the phone gets hot near the camera:

  • Force quit the Messages app.
  • Restart your iPhone.
  • Check for iOS and app updates.
  • If that fails, back up your data and do a full factory reset (Settings → General → Reset → Erase All Content and Settings).
  • If overheating continues, get your device checked by Apple.

4. Microphone Issues After Cleaning With Toothpaste

Voice Memos not working but Siri hears you fine?

  • You might have clogged the bottom microphone.
  • Try a full restore via iTunes.
  • If it still fails, the bottom microphone might need replacement.

5. Can’t Send or Receive SMS on iPhone 7

If you can iMessage (blue bubbles) but can’t send SMS (green bubbles):

  • Make sure you have a texting plan with your carrier.
  • Contact your carrier if needed — Apple can’t fix SMS issues tied to your account.

6. Wi-Fi Drops and Sound Only From Right Speaker

If your iPhone struggles to stay on Wi-Fi:

  • Update your phone and apps.
  • Do a factory reset if needed.
  • If it still disconnects, hardware might be to blame.

For the sound: iPhone 7 uses stereo sound in landscape mode only. In portrait mode, only the bottom right speaker works — this is normal.

7. Volume Cuts Out When Recording Videos

If concert videos have choppy sound:

  • Remove your phone case and record again.
  • If that doesn’t help, contact Apple for a possible hardware replacement.

8. SMS Won’t Send After Phone Number Change

If you switched numbers and can’t send SMS:

  • Check and update your Message Center Number:
    • Dial *#5005*7672# to see it.
    • Update it by dialing **5005*7672*MessageCenterNumber#.
  • Still stuck? Push your carrier for more help.

9. Microphone Cuts In and Out on Calls

If people say your voice fades or sounds tinny:

  • Restart your iPhone.
  • Remove any case blocking the microphone.
  • If it persists after a factory reset, have Apple replace your device.

10. Crackling Speaker and No Sound on Calls

Hearing static or no sound unless on speaker?

  • Test the microphone by recording in the Voice Memos app.
  • Do a factory reset and recheck.
  • If there’s still an issue, it could be hardware — reach out to Apple.

11. Brand New iPhone 7 Won’t Turn On

If your iPhone 7 is completely black:

  • Press and hold Sleep/Wake + Volume Down for at least 10 seconds.
  • No response? It’s a hardware defect. Return it for a replacement.

12. Dropped Calls, Delayed SMS, and Slow Internet

If you constantly lose signal or have slow data:

  • It’s probably poor network coverage, not your iPhone.
  • Your best fix: Switch to a carrier that has better service where you live.

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