Call audio problems can come from a few different places — software settings, a blocked speaker or mic, or actual hardware damage — and it helps to narrow down which side of the call is affected.
Check the volume and mute settings
It sounds basic, but call volume, a muted microphone, or a connected Bluetooth device silently routing audio elsewhere accounts for a lot of "broken" call audio.
Test with speakerphone and a headset
Switch to speakerphone, and separately try a wired or Bluetooth headset. If audio works on speaker but not the earpiece, that narrows the problem to one specific speaker.
Check for a blocked speaker or mic
Lint, dust, and pocket debris can partially block the tiny speaker and microphone openings. Inspect them with a flashlight and clean gently with a soft brush.
Remove your case
A case that doesn't align well with the speaker or mic cutouts can muffle audio in a way that's easy to mistake for a hardware fault.
Test in a different app
Try a call over Wi-Fi calling or a video call app instead of a regular cellular call. If the problem only happens on cellular calls, it may be a carrier or signal issue rather than the phone itself.
If you've ruled out settings, cases, and debris and audio is still muffled, silent, or distorted on one specific speaker or mic, that component has likely failed and needs to be repaired.
Still having trouble?
Call now or send us a message and describe what's going on — we'll help you figure out next steps.