If your iPhone 14 microphone isn’t working, start by finding out which microphone is the problem: record a Voice Memo (bottom mic), then record a video with the front camera and with the back camera. Next, take off the case, disconnect Bluetooth devices, clean the mic openings gently, check that the app has microphone permission, and restart the phone. If none of that helps, update iOS, reset all settings, and contact Apple if a microphone is still silent.
Here’s each step in order, from the quickest checks to the more involved fixes.
Where the microphones are on an iPhone 14
| Microphone | Location | How to test it |
|---|---|---|
| Bottom | Grille next to the Lightning port | Record a Voice Memo and play it back |
| Front | In the earpiece (receiver) area at the top of the screen | Record a video with the front camera |
| Back | Near the rear cameras | Record a video with the rear camera |
If all three recordings sound fine, the microphones work and the problem is with a specific app, a setting, or a connected accessory.
Step 1: Remove the case and screen protector
Cases and screen protectors that are slightly misaligned can cover a microphone opening. Take them off and test again.
Step 2: Disconnect Bluetooth devices
Your iPhone may be sending audio to AirPods, a car, or a speaker. Open Control Center, tap and hold the Bluetooth button, and turn it off, or go to Settings > Bluetooth. Then test again.
Step 3: Clean the microphone openings
Use a soft, dry, anti-static brush or a clean, soft toothbrush to gently brush lint and dust out of the openings. Don’t push anything sharp into the holes, and don’t use compressed air, liquids, or cleaning sprays.
Step 4: Check app permissions
- Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone.
- Turn on access for the app that isn’t hearing you, such as WhatsApp, Zoom, or Instagram.
- Close and reopen the app.
Step 5: Check Mic Mode during calls
During a FaceTime or supported app call, open Control Center and tap Mic Mode. Standard is the most reliable if people say your voice cuts out. Voice Isolation can help in noisy places but may make you sound quieter in some situations.
Step 6: Restart or force restart
- Restart: Press and hold the side button and either volume button, drag the slider, wait 30 seconds, and turn the phone back on.
- Force restart: Press and quickly release Volume Up, press and quickly release Volume Down, then press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.
Step 7: Update iOS
Go to Settings > General > Software Update and install any available update. Bug fixes in iOS updates sometimes resolve audio problems.
Step 8: Reset all settings
Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings. This resets settings like Wi-Fi passwords and wallpaper but doesn’t delete your photos, messages, or apps.
Step 9: Isolate the problem with another mic
Connect wired EarPods (with a Lightning connector) or AirPods and make a test call. If people can hear you through the headset’s microphone but not through the phone, the problem is almost certainly the iPhone’s built-in mic rather than the app or your network. That’s useful information to share with Apple Support.
If your iPhone got wet
The iPhone 14 is water resistant, but water can sit in the microphone and speaker openings and muffle sound for a while. Tap the phone gently against your hand with the openings facing down, then leave it to dry in a dry place. Don’t put it in rice or use a hair dryer, and don’t charge it if you see a liquid detection alert.
Step 10: Contact Apple
If a microphone still records nothing, or sounds muffled after cleaning, it may be damaged, often by water or dust. Back up your iPhone and contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store or authorized service provider. If the phone is under warranty or AppleCare+, the repair may be covered.
Symptoms and likely causes
| Symptom | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Callers can’t hear you, but videos record sound | Bottom mic blocked, Bluetooth routing, or Mic Mode |
| Siri doesn’t hear “Hey Siri” | Front or bottom mic blocked; check Siri settings |
| One app can’t hear you | Microphone permission for that app |
| Muffled sound everywhere | Debris in openings or moisture |
| Silent after a drop or water exposure | Hardware damage |
Related: Where to find the microphone on iPhone 14.
Related: How to allow microphone access for Facebook on iPhone.
Related: What the orange dot on your iPhone means.
Related: Fix voice memos not playing on iPhone 14.
Related: Turn on Developer Mode on iPhone 13.
Related: How to use Audio Mix on iPhone videos.
Frequently asked questions
Why can people not hear me on my iPhone 14?
Most often the bottom microphone is covered by a case or debris, or audio is going to a Bluetooth device.
Can a software update break the microphone?
Rarely, but a bug can affect audio in specific apps. Updating again or resetting settings usually fixes it.
How much does a microphone repair cost?
It depends on the damage and your coverage. Apple’s support site gives an estimate for your model.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.