Recently, we've received several messages from readers about microphone issues. Some mentioned that the other person couldn't hear their voice during a call. These issues aren't usually serious, but what if it's an urgent business call or a phone interview? 🤔

Why isn't your phone's microphone working?

There can be multiple reasons why your phone's microphone might not work, especially during a call. Here are some possible causes.

Network problems – Network connection issues are usually the culprit for microphone issues. If you're in the middle of a call and the other person suddenly can't hear you, it's likely an issue with your service provider.

Microphone lock – Sometimes we accidentally place our fingers over the microphone during calls, blocking our sound. Make sure your fingers aren't covering the microphone while you're speaking.

Dirt accumulation – Microphone failures can also be caused by dirt buildup. It doesn't happen overnight, but it can become a problem over time.

Third-party applications – There are certain types of online applications that can cause problems with your microphone. They don't harm your hardware, but they can modify some files, causing issues with your microphone.

Below we will share some simple methods to Troubleshoot microphone problems on Android smartphones. Make sure you follow each method to the letter. 🔧

1. Restart your device

This is one of the first steps you should take to troubleshoot microphone issues on Android smartphones. Not just microphone issues, a simple restart can resolve most Android errors. Once done, make a call and check if the microphone issue has been resolved. 📞

2. Turn off your device for a few seconds

This is another step you should take to troubleshoot microphone issues on Android devices. If a simple restart doesn't fix the problem, turn off your Android smartphone and wait 10 to 30 seconds before turning it back on.

This will refresh your hardware and may resolve microphone issues. Once you've done this, make a call to see if the issue is resolved. 👍

3. Check if your case is blocking the microphone

Although it's rare, a case can obstruct the microphone. While the case won't completely block the microphone, it can affect sound input.

If your case is blocking the microphone, you'll experience low sound levels. So, be sure to check if this is happening.

Try removing your phone's case and checking the microphone. If it still doesn't work, put the case back on. 📱

4. Turn off Bluetooth

If you use a Bluetooth headset with your Android, it's likely connected during your calls.

When a Bluetooth headset is connected, you won't be able to speak into your phone's microphone. Therefore, make sure no Bluetooth device is connected to your phone.

You can also pull down the notification panel on Android and turn off Bluetooth. Or, go to Application menu > Bluetooth, and disable Bluetooth connectivity. ❌

5. Check microphone permissions on Android

The latest version of Android allows you to enable or disable microphone access for apps and services. So, if your microphone isn't working on Android while using certain apps, you should check your microphone access settings. Here's how to do it:

1. Open the application Settings on your Android smartphone.

2. In Settings, scroll down and tap Privacy.

3. Then, in Permissions Manager, activate the switch to microphone access.

6. Check microphone access for apps

As we know, the latest versions of Android allow you to disable microphone access for select apps. For example, if your microphone isn't working only when making calls on WhatsApp, you'll need to check if microphone access for WhatsApp is enabled.

1. Press and hold the app icon for which you want to verify microphone access and select App info.

2. On the app info screen, tap on Permissions.

3. In the app permissions, tap on Microphone.

4. Select Allow only while in use the application or Ask every time to grant microphone access in the app.

7. Clean the microphone with a pin

As we know, microphone failures can also be caused by the accumulation of dirt in the microphone.

Dirt doesn't accumulate overnight, but if you use your phone regularly for a long period of time or if it's exposed to dust, it's likely to accumulate dirt.

In this method, you'll need to use a small pin or thin needle to clean the small hole next to the USB connector. You can also blow air directly into the microphone hole to remove debris. Avoid using cotton cloths, as debris from the fabric could get trapped.

You can also take your smartphone to a repair shop to have the microphone cleaned. 🛠️

8. Turn off noise reduction

The latest Android smartphones have a feature called Noise Reduction. This feature eliminates background noise during calls and improves the call experience.

However, due to some bugs, this feature sometimes completely blocks the sound during a call. So, if the microphone issue is caused by noise cancellation, follow this method to fix it.

• First, open the Application Menu and select Settings.
• In Settings, tap on Phone.
• Now in the call settings, scroll down and find Noise reduction.
• Disable the option and restart your smartphone.

9. Find and remove the third-party app

As we mentioned, third-party apps can interfere with your phone and cause microphone issues.

If you're having microphone issues after installing an app, blame that app. You need to restart your phone in safe mode, which will temporarily disable all third-party apps.

After restarting your phone in safe mode, make a call and check if the microphone is working. If so, you'll need to identify and remove the app causing the problem. 🔍

10. Take it for repair

If all methods fail to resolve the microphone issue, your phone likely has a damaged microphone. In that case, you should take it to a service center for repair.

You can also contact customer service for more information about your phone. You won't have to pay anything if your device is under warranty. However, if your phone is out of warranty, you'll be responsible for the microphone repair costs. 💵

These are some of the best methods for troubleshooting microphone issues on Android smartphones. Let us know in the comments section if you know of any other methods for resolving the microphone issue. 👇