Microphone not working on iPhone
If your microphone isn't working on iPhone, it's almost always one of three things: the wrong input device is selected, the mic is muted, or an app doesn't have permission. Work through the steps below, then confirm with the live test.
Step-by-step fix
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Open Settings → Sounds & Haptics and pick the correct microphone as the default input.
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Make sure it isn't muted — in software and on any hardware mute switch.
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Grant microphone permission to your browser and app in Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone.
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Run the CheckMyMic microphone test and speak — watch for the live meter and a green "your mic works" verdict.
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Still nothing? Update or reinstall your audio driver, then restart iPhone.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my mic detected but silent on iPhone?
Usually the input level is at zero or the wrong device is selected. Raise the input volume in Settings → Sounds & Haptics and confirm the active device matches the mic you're speaking into.
How do I know which microphone iPhone is using?
Open the CheckMyMic mic test, press Start, and use the device dropdown — the mic that moves the meter when you speak is the active one. It should match the default input shown in Settings → Sounds & Haptics; if it doesn't, iPhone is capturing from a different device than you expect.
I've tried every step and my mic still doesn't work on iPhone — what now?
Isolate the fault: try the mic on another device or port, and try a different mic on this machine. If the CheckMyMic mic test stays silent only on iPhone, the fix is in software — recheck Settings → Sounds & Haptics and Settings → Privacy & Security. If it fails only inside one app, our dedicated Zoom, Teams and Discord mic guides cover the app-side settings.
Where is the microphone toggle for Safari on iPhone?
Two places. App-wide: Settings → Apps → Safari → Microphone, set to Ask or Allow. Per-site: tap the AA/page icon in Safari's address bar → Website Settings → Microphone. Third-party apps each have their own switch under Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone.