iPhone XS Microphone Not Working? Try These Fixes

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.

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