After screen replacement, why does my microphone only work for calls?

After screen replacement, why does my microphone only work for calls?
After replacing the screen on my smartphone, I noticed that the microphone now only works during calls. When I try to use it for other purposes, such as recording videos, voice messages, or using voice assistants, it simply doesn’t pick up any sound. This issue is quite frustrating because I rely heavily on these features throughout my day. I’m not sure if something went wrong during the screen replacement process, or if there’s another reason why the microphone isn’t functioning correctly in all scenarios. It’s puzzling that it works fine for calls but not for anything else. How could this happen, and what could be the cause of this selective functionality?
6 Answers

Hi! I faced a similar problem after my screen replacement and found it was due to the noise-canceling microphone being damaged. During calls, the primary microphone works fine, but other functions sometimes rely on the noise-canceling microphone. Here’s how you can check:
1. Voice Recorder Test: Speak directly into the noise-canceling microphone.
2. Headphone Test: Use headphones with a mic to see if the problem persists. If the headphones work for all functions, the noise-canceling mic might be defective.
3. Repair Shop: If you’re uncomfortable opening the phone, it may be best to visit a professional.

Another possibility, if the above solutions don’t work, is a hidden fault in the microphone circuitry that went undetected during the screen replacement. Here’s what you can do:
– Mic Circuit Inspection: Inspect the microphone’s circuitry for any hidden damages caused during the replacement.
– Electrical Tests: Use a multimeter to carry out electrical tests and identify potential circuit issues.
– Expert Technician: For a more thorough inspection, visit a trusted repair shop for a professional assessment of the microphone circuitry.

Sometimes, the problem might be a software configuration issue rather than a hardware malfunction. Specific permission settings could have been altered during the repair, affecting the microphone’s functioning. Here’s a checklist:
– Permissions: Go to Settings -> Apps -> Permissions, and ensure apps have access to the microphone.
– Update Software: Occasionally, a software update can fix compatibility issues.
– Factory Reset: If all else fails, consider a factory reset (after backup), which can resolve any persistent software issues.

From my experience, accidental damage to the microphone gasket or mesh cover during a screen replacement can lead to such issues. Here’s what might have gone wrong:
1. Microphone Gasket: The gasket directing sound into the microphone might be compromised. Check if it’s in place.
2. Mesh Cover: Dust or debris might be trapped under the mesh cover. Clean it gently with compressed air.

The issue might be due to a loose connection or a misalignment of the microphone during the replacement process. When technicians handle screen swaps, they can inadvertently dislodge or misalign internal components. Here’s what to do:
1. Inspect Microphone Placement: Ensure the microphone is seated correctly.
2. Check Flex Cables: Verify that the cable connecting the microphone is securely attached.
3. Test Various Apps: Use multiple apps to determine if the issue is software-related.

The problem could lie in the software not properly switching between the microphones. Modern smartphones use multiple microphones, and miscommunication between them can cause selective functionality. Try these steps:
1. Microphone Switching: Use a third-party app like Open Camera to manually control the microphones, helping you identify functional ones.
2. Diagnostic Apps: Manufacturer diagnostic apps can perform detailed tests to find microphone issues.
3. Safe Mode: Boot in safe mode to check if third-party software is causing the problem. If the microphone works normally, consider uninstalling recent apps.