If people can’t hear you during phone calls, or your voice recordings are silent or muffled, your iPhone XS microphone might be to blame. This issue can be either hardware-related or caused by minor software bugs—and the good news is, many microphone issues can be fixed with some basic troubleshooting steps.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to fixing a non-working microphone on your iPhone XS.
✅ Step 1: Remove Accessories & Clean the Microphone
Before diving into the settings:
- Remove any case or screen protector that might be covering the mic holes.
- Inspect the microphones (bottom edge, front near the earpiece, and back near the camera) for dust, lint, or debris.
- Gently clean using a dry, soft-bristled brush or compressed air.
✅ Step 2: Test All Microphones
Use built-in apps to check each mic:
- Voice Memos (bottom mic)
- Camera app – record video with front and rear camera (front and rear mics)
If any of the recordings are inaudible or distorted, you’ve isolated the faulty microphone.
✅ Step 3: Disconnect Bluetooth Devices
If your iPhone is connected to a Bluetooth headset or speaker, it might be redirecting audio input.
To disconnect:
- Go to Settings > Bluetooth
- Tap the “i” next to any paired device
- Tap Forget This Device
- Toggle Bluetooth OFF
Then test the microphone again.
✅ Step 4: Restart Your iPhone
A quick restart can clear out temporary glitches.
- Press and hold Side button + Volume Up or Down
- Drag the power slider
- Wait 30 seconds, then power back on
Check if your microphone works after the restart.
✅ Step 5: Update iOS
Microphone bugs are sometimes fixed in newer updates.
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update
- Tap Download and Install if an update is available
After the update, restart your phone and test again.
✅ Step 6: Reset All Settings
This resets all system preferences (but doesn’t delete your data):
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone
- Tap Reset > Reset All Settings
- Enter your passcode and confirm
This can fix settings conflicts that might be interfering with the mic.
✅ Step 7: Factory Reset (Erase All Content and Settings)
Only try this if all else fails—and be sure to back up your data first.
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone
- Tap Erase All Content and Settings
- Confirm your passcode and begin reset
Once done, set up your iPhone as new and test the microphone before restoring from backup.
⚠️ Still Not Working?
If none of the above steps helped:
- Your microphone might be damaged from water, impact, or internal component failure.
- Visit an Apple Store or authorized service center for hardware diagnostics and repair.