Experiencing low call volume on your iPhone after a software update can be frustrating. Many users report this issue, especially after major updates like iOS 17. Suddenly, it becomes hard to hear the person on the other end, no matter how high you set the volume. Troubleshooting steps can often resolve this issue, ensuring that your calls return to their normal clarity.
Experts suggest a few practical steps to address this problem. Cleaning your iPhone’s speaker and receiver can make a significant difference. Sometimes, dust and lint block the sound. Restarting your device or toggling the silent switch might help too.
If the problem persists, removing any phone cases or screen protectors is a good idea. These can sometimes cover speakers and affect sound quality. If these steps don’t work, contacting Apple Support may be necessary.
iPhone Call Volume Too Low After Update: Complete Fix Guide
Many iPhone users have reported that after updating to iOS 17.1.1 or later, their call volume suddenly dropped, even though the speakers worked fine before (Apple Community).
This issue can be caused by software glitches, mismatched sound settings, or accessibility features being toggled during the update.
š Step 1: Check Volume Settings During a Call
- Make or receive a call.
- While on the call,Ā press the Volume Up buttonĀ on the side of your iPhone.
- Note: The call volume can only be adjustedĀ duringĀ a call.
- Make sure theĀ āChange with ButtonsāĀ option is on:
- Go toĀ Settings ā Sounds & Haptics ā Change with Buttons ā ON.
š Step 2: Clean the Speaker and Receiver
Dust or debris in the top earpiece or bottom speaker can muffle sound.
- Use a soft brush or dry cotton swab to gently clean the openings.
- Avoid using liquids or compressed air directly into the speaker.
If the issue persists even after cleaning, itās likely software-related rather than hardware (Lifewire).
āļø Step 3: Disable Noise Cancellation & Sound Enhancements
Sometimes iOS updates reset or alter accessibility settings that affect sound.
- Go toĀ Settings ā Accessibility ā Audio/Visual
- TurnĀ Phone Noise CancellationĀ OFF
- TurnĀ Mono AudioĀ OFFĀ (if on)
- SlideĀ BalanceĀ to the center
This can immediately restore normal call volume.
š¶ Step 4: Check Bluetooth and Output Settings
If your iPhone is connected to a Bluetooth device (e.g., AirPods, car system), the sound may be routed incorrectly.
- Swipe down from the top-right āĀ Control CenterĀ ā tapĀ Audio OutputĀ ā chooseĀ iPhone.
- Also, disable Bluetooth temporarily:Ā Settings ā Bluetooth ā OFFĀ to test.
š Step 5: Restart or Force Restart Your iPhone
A simple restart can fix post-update sound bugs.
- Restart:Ā Hold the side + volume button ā slide to power off ā wait 30 seconds ā turn it back on.
- Force restart:
- iPhone 8 or newer: Press and releaseĀ Volume Up, thenĀ Volume Down, then holdĀ Side buttonĀ until the Apple logo appears.
š§© Step 6: Reset All Settings
If none of the above works, reset system settings without deleting data:
- Go toĀ Settings ā General ā Transfer or Reset iPhone ā Reset ā Reset All Settings.
This will restore all sound, network, and display settings to default.
š§¼ Step 7: Update or Reinstall iOS
Apple often releases small patches (like iOS 17.1.2) to fix audio and Bluetooth bugs.
- Go toĀ Settings ā General ā Software UpdateĀ ā install the latest version.
If the issue appearedĀ afterĀ an update, future updates may fix it (SlashGear).
š§° Step 8: Run Apple Diagnostics or Contact Support
If your hardware is fine (as confirmed by Apple Diagnostics) but the issue persists, itās almost certainly a software calibration bug.
You can contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for a diagnostic check ā many users on the Apple Community have reported the same issue with no hardware faults.
ā Quick Summary of Fixes
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| Volume low only during calls | Adjust in-call volume |
| Muffled or distorted sound | Clean earpiece and speaker |
| ANC or accessibility interference | Turn off Noise Cancellation |
| Bluetooth output issue | Disconnect or change audio output |
| Persistent bug after update | Reset settings or reinstall iOS |
š§ Bottom Line
Low call volume after an iOS update is usually a temporary software issue, not hardware damage.
Try the steps above in order ā most users find success by disabling phone noise cancellation or resetting all settings. If the problem continues, Apple may release a patch soon (users on 17.1.1 have already reported similar issues).
Key Takeaways
- Clean the speakers and receiver to improve sound.
- Restart your device and toggle the silent switch.
- Remove cases and screen protectors, and contact support if needed.
Troubleshooting Low Call Volume on iPhone After Update
This guide helps you solve low call volume issues on your iPhone after an update. Follow these steps to improve your phone call experience.
Initial Checks and Basic Fixes
Start with simple steps. First, check if anything is blocking your phone’s speaker or earpiece. Remove any screen protector or phone case that might be covering the speakers.
Next, clean your phone’s speaker openings. Lint or dust can reduce sound quality. Use a soft brush or a clean, dry toothbrush to gently clean these areas.
Make sure your phone’s volume is turned up. Press the volume up button during a call to increase the in-call volume. Also, check the Control Center to ensure silent mode is off.
In-Depth Solutions to Address Low Volume Issues
If basic fixes donāt work, try more detailed steps. First, restart your iPhone. Simply turn it off and back on again. This can solve many minor issues.
Check for software updates. Go to Settings > General > Software Update and install any available updates. Sometimes, updates fix bugs that cause volume problems.
If the problem continues, try resetting all settings on your iPhone. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings. This action will not delete your data but will reset system settings to default.
Understanding and Managing iPhone Audio Settings
Inspect your audio settings to find specific options that might affect call volume. In Settings, go to Sounds & Haptics. Ensure the volume levels for ringer and alerts are appropriate.
Navigate to Accessibility > Audio/Visual. Here you can adjust settings like Phone Noise Cancellation which might affect sound quality during calls. Turn it off to see if call volume improves.
Check Call Audio Routing settings. Make sure it is set to Automatic so calls route correctly through the earpiece.
Hardware Checks: Ensuring Physical Components Are Not Compromised
Sometimes, hardware problems cause low call volume. Inspect your iPhoneās speaker and earpiece for any physical damage.
Make sure the speaker is not obstructed by debris. If you see dirt, use a soft, dry brush to clean it. Avoid using liquids, which might damage the phone.
Another useful check is using headphones. Connect a pair of Bluetooth or wired headphones to your iPhone. Make a call to see if the volume improves. This can help identify if the phoneās speaker is the problem.
Identifying and Resolving Software-Related Issues
Software glitches often affect call volume. Ensure all apps are up to date. Outdated apps may conflict with the phoneās audio system.
Close all background apps. Double-click the home button or swipe up from the bottom to view all open apps. Swipe each one up to close it.
Lastly, check if Do Not Disturb mode is on. This can lower call volume. Go to Settings > Do Not Disturb and make sure it is off.
Advanced Troubleshooting and Support Options
If none of the previous steps work, consider more advanced options. You might need to factory reset your iPhone. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings. Backup your data first as this will erase everything.
Contact Apple Support if you still face issues. They can provide further assistance and might suggest you visit an Apple Store. Here, trained technicians can diagnose and fix more serious problems.
You can schedule an appointment at an Apple Store or an authorized service location. Sometimes, professional help is required to solve hardware issues that DIY methods cannot fix.
