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#
.
- Dial
- 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.