There can be a few reasons why your iPhone microphone may sound glitchy or cut in and out during calls or recordings. The most common causes of an iPhone mic glitching are a faulty mic, software issues, interference from phone case or accessories, or damage from liquid or debris. Read on below for more details on troubleshooting an iPhone microphone that is glitchy or cutting out.
Is it a hardware issue?
One of the first things to check is whether there is an actual hardware issue with your iPhone’s microphone. The microphone is a delicate component that can get damaged from drops or exposure to liquids. Here are some signs of iPhone microphone hardware damage:
- Muffled, very faint audio when trying to make calls or recordings
- Very low microphone volume even when turned all the way up
- Distorted, static-like sounds during calls or recordings
- Microphone not picking up any audio at all
If you notice any of those issues, it’s likely there is physical damage to the iPhone’s microphone hardware. You can test the mic further by trying to make a voice memo and seeing if the recording is clear. Hardware damage would require repair or replacement of the iPhone.
Could it be an iOS software issue?
The iPhone microphone glitching can also be caused by bugs or issues with iOS software rather than hardware failure. Some signs it may be a software issue:
- Microphone works inconsistently, cutting out periodically
- Mic works fine when using headphones but not phone speaker
- Issue started after a software update
Software bugs can cause the microphone to malfunction or disable audio input from the mic entirely. Try the following troubleshooting steps for an iOS software issue:
- Check for any available iOS updates and install latest version
- Reset all settings on the iPhone – Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings
- Test microphone using different apps like Voice Memos, third-party apps
- Restore iPhone firmware through iTunes
If the problem persists after updating and resetting the iPhone, a full restore of the firmware could fix software corruption causing the mic glitch.
Is the microphone being blocked?
Another simple possibility – the iPhone mic can get physically blocked by a phone case, screen protector, or debris like dust or lint. Check the following:
- Remove any phone case or cover and see if issue is fixed
- Check microphone and earpiece area for any debris or obstructions
- Blow gently into mic hole and headphone jack to dislodge any dust
Make sure to clean any dirt, lint, or crumbs that may be lodged in the microphone holes along the bottom or earpiece at top of phone. Even a small obstruction can muffle the microphone.
Could Bluetooth accessories be interfering?
Certain Bluetooth headsets, headphones or speakers can cause interference that makes the iPhone microphone glitchy. The issue typically arises when using the phone mic while Bluetooth devices are connected or paired. Try unpairing or turning off Bluetooth accessories to see if it resolves glitching.
When should you get the microphone replaced?
If you’ve tried all troubleshooting steps like updating software, removing cases and debris, and the iPhone microphone still isn’t working properly, then it likely needs repair or replacement:
- No audio at all from microphone across different apps
- Very faint, muffled, or static-like microphone audio
- Microphone volume not increasing even on max settings
Third-party repair shops can replace just the iPhone microphone, which is a more affordable fix than replacing the entire phone. Apple Stores can also service the microphone, usually by replacing the entire iPhone if it’s under warranty or paying a flat rate for out-of-warranty service.
How to prevent iPhone microphone glitches
To help avoid issues with your iPhone microphone glitching or cutting out in the future, follow these tips:
- Avoid exposing iPhone to moisture or liquids which can damage the mic
- Don’t blow into mic hole which can push in debris causing obstruction
- Check case is not blocking microphone hole before use
- Remove screen protectors carefully to prevent dust buildup near mic
- Update to latest iOS version for microphone patches and fixes
Proper care and maintenance will help prevent the hardware and software issues that typically cause an iPhone microphone to glitch. But even with precautions, mics can fail – so be sure to backup your iPhone in case you need to restore or replace it.
Diagnosing iPhone microphone issues
If your iPhone’s microphone is glitchy, cutting out, or not working at all, here are some steps to diagnose the cause:
- Check for iOS updates – Install latest iOS version
- Toggle Bluetooth off – Stops interference from paired devices
- Remove case and accessories – Prevents any physical obstruction
- Blow gently into ports – Clears out any dust or debris
- Check mic during call – Determines if issue is speaker related
- Record voice memo – Tests microphone directly
- Reset network settings – Fixes connectivity/carrier issues
- Factory reset iPhone – Eliminates any software corruption
- Replace microphone – If hardware issue persists after troubleshooting
If multiple tests show the iPhone microphone still isn’t working properly, then the mic most likely needs to be repaired or replaced. Be sure to backup your data before factory resetting or replacing an iPhone due to microphone failure.
Conclusion
A glitchy iPhone microphone can be frustrating, but the problem is usually fixable. Check for obstruction from debris or cases, iOS software bugs, Bluetooth interference, and hardware damage. Make sure to keep the iPhone mic clear of dust and moisture. If the microphone issue persists after troubleshooting, replacement of the mic hardware may be necessary – this can be done affordably by phone repair shops. With proper maintenance and prompt troubleshooting when issues arise, you can get your iPhone’s microphone working smoothly again.