Why Can’t People Hear Me on Phone Calls?

This is for you if… people say they cannot hear you properly on phone calls, or your voice sounds faint, muffled or far away.

I was helping someone in Cambridge who thought their phone microphone had failed. The case was partly covering the microphone and a bit of dust had collected near the bottom edge.

Common reasons people cannot hear you

The microphone may be blocked by a case, finger, screen protector or dirt. Bluetooth headphones may be connected without you realising, or an app may not have microphone permission.

Quick checks to try

• Remove the phone case and try another call.
• Check the microphone holes are not covered.
• Turn Bluetooth off briefly to rule out headphones.
• Restart the phone.
• Record a short voice memo to test the microphone.

If it happens only in one app

If normal calls work but WhatsApp, FaceTime or another app does not, check that app’s microphone permission and update the app.

If it happens on every call

If nobody can hear you on any call or recording, the microphone may need cleaning or repair. Do not poke sharp objects into the microphone holes.

Need help?

My membership is for ongoing help and peace of mind across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Suffolk. For one-off phone call problems, you can book a visit.