How To Fix An IPhone 8 Plus Microphone That Is Not Working ... - IKream

If people can’t hear you during calls, your voice sounds muffled, or apps like Voice Memos and FaceTime aren’t picking up audio—your iPhone 8 microphone may be acting up. Whether it’s a glitch or hardware-related, here’s how you can troubleshoot and fix it.

1. Restart Your iPhone 8

Start with the easiest fix—a quick reboot.

To restart:

• Hold down the Side button until the “slide to power off” appears.
• Slide to turn off your iPhone.
• Wait a few seconds, then press and hold the Side button again to turn it back on.

This clears minor glitches that might be interfering with the mic.

2. Inspect the Microphone Openings

Dirt, lint, or gunk in the mic holes can block sound.

• Look closely at the bottom edge, front, and back mic openings.
• Use a soft brush, a dry toothbrush, or a clean, dry toothbrush to gently clear out any debris.
• Avoid using liquids or compressed air, which can damage internal components.

3. Update to the Latest iOS

Software bugs can cause mic issues, and Apple often fixes them with updates.

To update:

• Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
• If an update is available, tap Download and Install.

Make sure your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi and has enough battery.

4. Reset Network Settings

Bluetooth and Wi-Fi issues can sometimes affect microphone behavior.

To reset:

• Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset.
• Tap Reset Network Settings.
• Enter your passcode if prompted.

This won’t erase your data but will reset Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and VPN settings.

5. Test Each Microphone Separately

Your iPhone 8 has three microphones. Here’s how to test each one:

• Bottom microphone: Open the Voice Memos app and record something. Play it back to check the sound.
• Front microphone: Use the Camera app, switch to the front-facing camera, record a video, then play it back.
• Rear microphone: Use the rear camera to record a video while speaking behind the phone.

This helps pinpoint which microphone is faulty.

6. Check Microphone Permissions for Apps

If a certain app can’t access your mic, it may not be a hardware issue.

To check:

• Go to Settings > Privacy > Microphone.
• Make sure the app you’re using has microphone access turned on.
• Toggle the switch off and then back on if needed.

Still not working in just that app? Try reinstalling it.

7. Try Apple or Certified Headsets

Third-party earbuds or headsets can mess with audio input.

• Plug in a pair of Apple EarPods or a known-good Lightning headset.
• Try making a call or recording audio.

If the mic works through those, the issue could be the internal mics.

8. Look for Physical or Liquid Damage

• Inspect your iPhone 8 for dents, cracks, or signs of water damage.
• A drop or moisture exposure can damage the mic or the logic board.

If you spot damage, your best bet is professional repair.

9. Reset All Settings

Sometimes, a settings conflict can be the root cause.

To reset all settings:

• Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset.
• Tap Reset All Settings.
• Enter your passcode and confirm.

Your data stays safe, but system settings like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and wallpaper will reset.