iPhone Microphone Not Working: 7 Ways to Fix It

Check Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone and make sure the affected app has permission. Then check that the bottom microphone grille isn't blocked by a case or debris. For Siri issues specifically, toggle Siri off and back on in Settings.

Modern iPhones have three microphones: one at the bottom (primary, used for calls and recording), one at the top-front (used with speakerphone and FaceTime), and one at the back near the camera (used for video recording). Depending on which app or feature isn't working, a different microphone may be the issue.

Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone. You'll see a list of every app that has requested microphone access. Make sure the app that's not working (Phone, WhatsApp, Instagram, Voice Memos, etc.) is toggled on. If it's off, toggle it on and test again.

The bottom microphone is a small hole on the bottom edge of your iPhone, next to the Lightning or USB-C port. Cases — especially thick ones — can partially or fully block it. Remove your case and test a phone call. Also check if lint or debris has accumulated in the microphone port; use a dry toothbrush or canned air to gently clear it (never poke a pin in there).

Open the Voice Memos app and record a 10-second clip. Play it back. If audio was captured, your hardware microphone is working and the issue is app-specific or permission-related. If the recording is silent, you likely have a hardware issue or a deeper software problem.

If you have a Bluetooth headset, speaker, or car kit connected, calls and recordings often route audio to those devices instead of the built-in microphone. Go to Settings > Bluetooth and disconnect any paired devices, then test your microphone again.

Power cycle your iPhone. Hold the side button and volume down > slide to power off > wait 30 seconds > restart. Clears transient software states that can cause microphone routing failures.

Settings > General > Software Update. Microphone bugs have appeared in several iOS updates and been fixed in subsequent patches. Check for any available updates.

Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings. This resets privacy permissions, audio routing settings, and other configurations without erasing your data. You'll need to re-grant app permissions afterward.

If none of these work, the microphone hardware may have been damaged — often by water exposure or a drop. Check your warranty status and see if your device is covered under any [Apple recalls](/guides/apple-recall). If you need a repair, our guide on [what to do during a product recall](/guides/what-to-do-during-a-product-recall) walks through how to navigate Apple's service options.