The iPhone 11 has three microphones: one at the bottom, one at the front, and one at the rear. These microphones are used for different purposes, such as phone calls, voice commands, noise cancellation, and audio recording. 

In this article, we will explain where each microphone is located on the iPhone 11, how many microphones there are in total, and how to troubleshoot some common microphone issues.

Where Can You Find the Microphone on iPhone 11?

The iPhone 11 has three microphones, all placed in different spots on the device. These microphones are usually hidden in small holes or embedded in other components, so they may not be easy to spot. 

Here is where you can find each microphone on the iPhone 11:

Bottom Microphone

On the bottom-left of the phone, the bottom microphone is located, next to the Lightning port. It is the main microphone for phone calls, as it picks up your voice when you speak on the phone. It is also used for voice memos, Siri, and other apps that require audio input.

Front Microphone

Near the selfie camera and the earpiece, the front microphone is located on the front of the phone. The front microphone is integrated within the ear speaker and is not visible to the naked eye. This microphone is meant for noise cancellation, as when you are on a call, it reduces the background noise. Moreover, it is also used for FaceTime, video recording, and other apps that use the front camera.

Rear Microphone

Next to the cameras and above the flash module, the rear microphone is located on the back of the phone. It is used for audio recording, as it captures the sound when you take pictures or videos with the rear camera. It is also used for stereo sound, as it works together with the bottom microphone to create a surround sound effect.

Troubleshooting Microphone Issues on iPhone 11

Sometimes, you may encounter some problems with the microphones on your iPhone 11, such as low or no sound, distorted or muffled sound, or feedback or echo. 

These issues can be caused by various factors, such as –

  • Software glitches
  • Hardware damage
  • Dirt or debris
  • Incompatible accessories

Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and fix the microphone issues on your iPhone 11:

Restart the iPhone

A simple restart can fix many small technical problems, as it clears the cache and refreshes the system. To restart your iPhone 11, press and hold the Side button and either of the Volume button. Now, wait until the power off slider appears. Next, you have to drag the slider and it will help to turn off the phone. Finally, press and hold the Side button again to turn it back on.

Check for Blockages

Look carefully at the front, bottom, and rear microphones for any blockages, such as dust, lint, or water. Gently wipe the microphones, using a soft, dry, and clean cloth. Try not to use any sharp or abrasive objects, as they may damage the microphones. If there is any water in the microphones, before using it again, let the phone dry completely.

Unplug Accessories

Detach any earbuds, headphones, or Bluetooth accessories you have plugged in or connected to your phone, as they may interfere with the microphones. Try using the phone without any accessories and verify whether the sound quality improves. If it does, you may need to replace or repair the accessories or adjust the settings for them.

Grant Microphone Access

Navigate to Settings, tap on Privacy select Microphone, and ensure the app you are using has the necessary permissions so that you can access the microphones. If the app does not have permission, toggle On the switch next to it and allow it access. If the app has permission, toggle the switch off and on again to reset it.

Update the Software

Check for any available software updates for your iPhone 11, as they may comprise a bug fixer or improvements for the microphones. To check for updates, go to Settings > General > Software Update and tap Download and Install if there is an update. Make sure your phone has enough battery and also check if it has a connection to a Wi-Fi network before updating.

Conclusion

The iPhone 11’s microphones are the same as the previous models of the iPhone, such as the iPhone X, XS, XR, and 8. However, the placement of the microphones may vary slightly depending on the model. If you face any error and none of the above steps work, you may need to contact Apple support for further assistance. There may be a hardware issue with the microphones that require professional repair or replacement. Do not attempt to open or modify your iPhone 11 by yourself, as it may void the warranty and cause more damage.