Apple iPhone Tip: How To Fix Malfunctioning Microphone

iPhones are very helpful smartphones, but just like any other handset, they have to be in tiptop shape so they can work as expected. Malfunctioning parts can cause a lot of problems, and will result to the device performing poorly.

An iPhone with malfunctioning microphones will never be able to perform at its best. Voice and video recordings will sound muffled or will not have any sound at all. Even voice calls will be negatively affected as well. That said, microphones have to be in good shape to be useful.

Here's how to fix malfunctioning microphones on an iPhone.

Clean it

Users can use soft, clean toothbrush to remove dirt in the microphone holes. Dirt can muffle a user's voice in recordings and calls.

Permission for Third-party Apps

Some third-party apps like Skype, FaceTime and WhatsApp require permission to use the iPhone's microphone for audio or video calls. Give these apps permission to use the mics by going to Settings > Privacy > Microphone then choosing what apps to give permission to.

Disconnect Bluetooth Devices

iPhones reroute all audio to the Bluetooth devices they are connected to. Disconnecting these devices, or turning Bluetooth off entirely, will stop the device from rerouting audio without the user's express knowledge.

Turn Noise Cancellation Off

iPhones have a noise cancellation feature that helps reduce ambient noise during phone calls. This feature works when the user holds the receiver to the ear during a call. Turning this feature off will help prevent a user's voice from being muffled during a call. Turn it off by going to Settings > Accessibility & Audio/Visual then switching the Phone Noise Cancellation toggle off.

Update the iPhone

If the microphone issues started appearing after a recent software update, chances are that the issues could be related to the update itself. Users should update their device to the latest version by going to Settings > General > Software Update; or downgrade to the older version if it's still allowed.

Resetting all iPhone Settings

Those who might have tinkered with their iPhones too much might find resetting iPhone Settings a helpful thing. This option, however, should be treated as a last attempt since the device will be reset to factory settings, iPhoneHacks noted. It won't delete any data, but will erase all Wi-Fi passwords in addition to resetting settings. Do this by going to Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings.