Fixing 'Smartphone Speaker Doesn't Work on Calls': Step-by-Step Guide
Experiencing issues with your smartphone's speaker during calls can be incredibly frustrating. Whether you can't hear the caller or they can't hear you, or perhaps there's just crackling and other odd noises disrupting your conversation, it's a problem that needs fixing. Luckily, most of the time, this issue can be resolved with a few simple steps. Let's jump into how you can get your smartphone's speaker working perfectly again.
Step 1: Restart Your Phone
It might sound too simple, but sometimes, all your phone needs is a quick restart. This can resolve any minor glitches in the system, including audio issues. To restart your phone, press and hold the power button until you see the option to restart or turn off. Choose to restart, and once your phone's back on, try making a call to see if there's an improvement.
Step 2: Check Volume Settings
Another common oversight is not realizing that the phone's volume is turned down too low. During a call, try adjusting the volume upwards to see if that solves the problem. If you can't adjust the volume during a call, try doing so from your phone's settings outside of a call.
Step 3: Clean Your Speaker
Dirt, dust, and debris can easily clog your phone's speaker, leading to muffled sound or no sound at all. Using a soft, dry brush, gently clean the speaker grilles on your phone. Be careful not to push any debris further inside. Sometimes, a can of compressed air can also be useful for blowing out any stubborn particles.
Step 4: Disconnect Bluetooth Devices
Sometimes, your phone might still be connected to a Bluetooth device like headphones or a speaker, and you're not aware. This means the audio during calls is being directed to that device instead of your phone's speaker. Turn off Bluetooth from your phone's settings or disconnect any paired devices and try making a call again.
Step 5: Check for Software Updates
Developers regularly release updates that can fix bugs, including those related to audio issues. Go to your phone's settings, find the section for software updates, and see if there's an update available. If yes, download and install it. It’s always a good idea to back up your data before doing a software update, just to be safe.
Step 6: Safe Mode Testing
Sometimes, a third-party app you've installed could be causing the problem. Booting your phone into Safe Mode can help pinpoint if this is the issue, as this mode will temporarily disable all third-party apps. The steps to enter Safe Mode can vary depending on your phone's model, so you may need to look up instructions specific to your device. Once in Safe Mode, try making a call. If your speaker works fine in this mode, it’s likely an app is the culprit, and you might need to figure out which one by trial and error, uninstalling apps one by one.
Step 7: Factory Reset
If none of the above steps work, a factory reset might be your last resort. This will erase all data and settings from your phone, returning it to its original state, so it’s crucial to back up important data first. After backing up, go through your phone's settings to find the option for a factory reset. Once the process is complete, set up your phone as new or restore your data and check if the speaker issue has been resolved.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with a non-functioning smartphone speaker during calls can disrupt your daily communications. However, by following the tips outlined above, you can troubleshoot and potentially resolve the issue on your own. If, after trying everything, your speaker still isn't working, it might be time to consult a professional. It could be a hardware issue that requires repair or replacement by someone with the technical know-how. Remember, taking good care of your smartphone, including regular cleaning and avoiding exposure to water or extreme temperatures, can help prevent such issues from occurring in the first place.
In conclusion, while it's annoying to deal with speaker issues during calls, there's a good chance you can fix the problem yourself with a little patience and following the right steps. Whether it's a simple fix like adjusting your volume settings or a more drastic measure like a factory reset, the solution might be easier than you think. And if all else fails, professional help is always an option.