Microphone Not Working on Android

1. Check the simple things

• Take off the case and check nothing covers the small microphone hole, usually at the bottom edge of the phone.
• Gently clear dust or lint from the hole with a soft, dry brush. Don't push anything sharp inside.
• Disconnect Bluetooth earbuds or car kits, which can take over the microphone without you noticing.

2. Turn on microphone access

Android 12 and later have a single switch that blocks the microphone for every app.

1. Swipe down twice from the top of the screen to open Quick Settings.
2. Look for a Microphone access tile and make sure it's on. If you can't see it, tap the pencil icon to add it.
3. You can also find it under Settings › Security & privacy › Privacy (or just Settings › Privacy).

3. Give the app permission

1. Open Settings › Apps and choose the app, for example Chrome.
2. Tap Permissions › Microphone.
3. Choose Allow only while using the app.

4. Allow the microphone in Chrome

1. On the website, tap the icon to the left of the web address, then Permissions, and switch Microphone on.
2. If it's blocked for every site, open Chrome's menu › Settings › Site settings › Microphone and turn it on.
3. Reload the page.

5. Close other apps using the microphone

A green dot or microphone icon at the top-right of the screen means something is using the microphone. Swipe down to see which app, and close call, recording or voice assistant apps you're not using.

6. Restart and update

1. Restart the phone, which clears most temporary glitches.
2. Install any updates under Settings › System › Software update (or Software update in Settings on some phones).

7. Rule out an app causing the problem

Most phones can start in safe mode, which turns off downloaded apps. Press and hold the power button, then press and hold Power off until the safe mode option appears. If the microphone works in safe mode, an app you installed is interfering; restart normally and remove recently added apps one at a time.

Still not working?

Try a voice recording in the phone's own recorder app, and a call on speaker. If the microphone fails everywhere, it's probably a hardware fault. Contact the phone maker or your carrier for a repair.

Frequently asked questions