Your iPhone X is supposed to stay quiet when in Silent Mode — so if you’re hearing notifications anyway, something’s not working right. This issue is usually tied to a software glitch, misconfigured setting, or a bug introduced by an app or system update.
Here are a few proven steps you can take to fix your iPhone X when it plays sounds even in Silent Mode.
1. Restart Your iPhone (Soft Reset)
Sometimes, all your iPhone needs is a quick reboot to stop a weird bug.
Option A: From Settings
- Go to Settings > General > Shut Down.
- Drag the slider to turn it off.
- Wait 30 seconds, then press the Side button to turn it back on.
Option B: Button Method
- Press and hold the Side button + Volume Up or Down until the power slider appears.
- Slide to power off, then turn it back on after 30 seconds.
This won’t erase any data — it’s a safe first step.
2. Check Emergency Bypass Settings
If your phone is playing sounds for specific contacts, Emergency Bypass might be on. This setting allows sounds from certain contacts even when your phone is on Silent or Do Not Disturb.
To disable it:
- Open the Phone or Contacts app.
- Select the contact making noise.
- Tap Edit > Ringtone.
- Toggle Emergency Bypass off.
- Tap Done and restart your iPhone.
Repeat this process for any other contacts you suspect may be bypassing silent mode.
3. Reset All Settings
If a recent update or settings change triggered the issue, resetting all settings can help. This won’t erase your data, but it will reset things like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and notification settings.
To do this:
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset.
- Tap Reset All Settings and confirm.
After the reset, test whether the issue still occurs before customizing your settings again.
4. Check for iOS Updates
Apple often fixes bugs in newer updates, especially ones tied to audio, notifications, or system settings.
To update:
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- If one is available, tap Download and Install.
Make sure to restart your iPhone after installing.
5. Factory Reset or Restore Your iPhone (Last Resort)
If all else fails, a full reset may be necessary. Back up your iPhone before doing this, as it will erase everything.
To factory reset:
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
- Enter your passcode to confirm.
Want to restore from a backup or try DFU mode?
Use iTunes or Finder on a computer for a deeper restore method. DFU mode is the most thorough, but should only be used if you’re confident, as doing it incorrectly can brick your phone. Check our iPhone X tutorials page for step-by-step DFU and Recovery Mode instructions.
Still Hearing Notifications in Silent Mode? Contact Apple
If your iPhone X started making sounds while in silent mode after an update, it could be a bug. Your best move is to report it directly to Apple Support. They may suggest a temporary workaround or confirm if a patch is on the way in a future iOS update.