Nobody can hear me on calls: how to diagnose the microphone
You make a call and the person on the other end can't hear you, hears you intermittently, or hears distorted audio. Before assuming it's a hardware fault, it's worth running a few simple tests to figure out whether the microphone itself is physically damaged or it's a software issue.
Test 1: check with a recording The fastest way to find out if the microphone works is to record your voice:
- Open the Voice Memos app (available on every smartphone)
- Record 10-15 seconds while speaking normally
- Play back the recording
If your voice sounds clear, the microphone works — the problem is elsewhere. If the voice is missing, distorted, or very quiet, the microphone has an issue.
Test 2: check permissions If the microphone works with the recorder but not during calls or with specific apps, the problem is almost certainly software:
- On iPhone: Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone → check that the Phone app has access enabled
- On Android: Settings → Apps → Phone → Permissions → Microphone → Enable
Restart the device after changing the permissions and try again.
Test 3: check the microphone physically The microphone is usually located on the bottom of the device, near the charging port. Look closely — if you see dust, lint, or debris blocking the tiny hole, a gentle cleaning might be all it takes.
How to clean it safely
- Use a soft brush with fine bristles to remove surface debris
- You can use a can of compressed air held at a distance
- Never needles, pins, or sharp objects — they damage the microphone's internal membrane
- Don't blow into it with your mouth — the moisture from your breath makes things worse
When it's hardware If none of the previous tests solved the problem, the microphone might be physically damaged — often after a fall, contact with liquids, or simply wear over time. In this case, technical repair is needed.
Bring the device to Dolomiti Repair in Santa Cristina Val Gardena for a free diagnosis: we'll check whether the problem is hardware or software and tell you exactly what's needed to fix it.
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