Experiencing iPhone 12 speaker issues? Check out these common problems and fixes. If the tips don’t resolve your issue, book a complimentary diagnosis for our iPhone 12 speaker repair.
Phone Case and Screen Protector Issues
Sometimes, a phone case or screen protector can block your iPhone 12’s sound. High-quality cases from a brand such as Apple usually don’t have this problem, but others might. Try removing the case to see if the sound improves. If it does, you may need a new phone case.
Also, a screen protector without a cutout for the top earpiece speaker could cause call sound issues. If calls are hard to hear, try taking off the screen protector to check if that’s the issue.
Software Fixes for Sound Problems
Software glitches can also affect sound. Try these steps:
- Turn off Bluetooth and check the audio again.
- If that doesn’t work, restart your phone.
If the sound still isn’t right, the problem might not be software-related.
Broken Earpiece Speaker
Some iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro models made between October 2020 and April 2021 have an earpiece speaker defect. If music sounds fine but you can’t hear calls, your phone might be one of these units. Apple offers free repairs for this issue. If your phone was made outside those dates, you may not qualify.
For other reasons, you can replace the speaker yourself using a guide online, but know that this may disable FaceID if done without Apple’s service tools.
Dirty or Damaged Speaker
If the main speaker sounds muffled or doesn’t work, it may be dirty or damaged. Here’s how to clean it:
- Use a pin or toothpick to gently clear dirt from the speaker holes.
- Blow short bursts of air to dislodge any debris.
If cleaning doesn’t help, you might need to replace the speaker. Follow an online guide for instructions.
How to Clean the Speaker and Microphone on iPhone 12
Keeping your phone’s speaker and microphone clean is essential for clear audio in calls and media. Over time, dust and dirt can collect in these openings and block sound. Follow these steps for a gentle cleaning:
- Use a Soft Brush, like a clean toothbrush, to carefully brush away any visible dust.
- Compressed Air can help remove stubborn debris—hold the phone at an angle so particles don’t get pushed further inside.
- Avoid Liquids to prevent water damage.
- Regular cleaning helps keep your iPhone’s audio clear and extends its life.
Check for iPhone 12 Updates
Sometimes, updates fix bugs that cause audio problems. Here’s how to check for updates:
- Connect to Wi-Fi.
- Open Settings and tap General.
- Select Software Update and follow the instructions to install any available updates.
Keeping your iPhone updated can help prevent audio issues.