Owners of the iPhone 12 series have encountered an issue with sound. Specifically, some iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro models do not emit sound during calls. This problem is a hardware concern related to a faulty component in the receiver.
Identifying whether an iPhone 12 has sound issues often involves testing its ability to play sounds and trying out common fixes. If there’s no sound during calls, the device might be part of a batch with known hardware defects. Fortunately, Apple has acknowledged this issue and offers service options.
Apple’s service program for the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro models experiencing sound problems is open for specific devices. These devices were manufactured between October 2020 and April 2021. Supports and repairs are carried out by Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider without charge to the user.
Overview
Many iPhone 12 users have reported sound issues such as:
- No audio during calls or FaceTime
- Ringer not working
- Speaker or earpiece producing no sound
- Audio cutting out randomly
This problem can stem from software glitches, settings misconfigurations, or hardware defects (Apple even launched an official service program for some iPhone 12 units — more on that below).
⚙️ Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide
1. Check the Basics
Before diving deeper:
- Silent Switch: Make sure the Ring/Silent switch (on the left side) isn’t set to silent (orange showing = silent mode).
- Volume Level: Press the Volume Up button to ensure the volume isn’t muted.
- Bluetooth: Go to Settings → Bluetooth and turn it off — sometimes audio routes to a paired device (like AirPods).
2. Restart Your iPhone
A simple restart can clear temporary audio glitches.
- Press and hold Volume Up + Side Button → slide to power off.
- Wait 10 seconds, then turn it back on.
3. Check Sound Settings
- Go to Settings → Sounds & Haptics
- Ensure Ringtone and Alerts volume is up.
- Toggle Change with Buttons ON to adjust volume manually.
4. Test with Different Apps
Try playing sound from:
- Apple Music or Spotify
- YouTube or Safari
- Phone Calls and FaceTime
If sound works in some apps but not others, the issue may be app-specific — update or reinstall the problematic app.
5. Clean the Speaker and Receiver
Dust or debris can block sound output.
- Use a soft, dry brush or compressed air to gently clean the speaker grills and earpiece.
- Avoid using liquids or sharp tools.
6. Disable Headphone Mode
Sometimes your iPhone may get stuck thinking headphones are connected.
- Plug in and unplug wired headphones several times.
- Go to Settings → Sounds & Haptics — if the volume slider says “Headphones,” it’s stuck.
- Restart your phone or clean the Lightning port carefully.
7. Reset All Settings
If software corruption is suspected:
- Go to Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Reset → Reset All Settings
This won’t delete data, but will reset Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, and sound preferences.
8. Update iOS
Apple often issues patches for sound-related bugs.
- Go to Settings → General → Software Update
- Install the latest iOS version.
9. Check for Hardware Defects
If none of the above helps, the issue may be hardware-related — especially if:
- No sound from both speakers and earpiece
- Sound cuts out intermittently
- You dropped or got the phone wet
Apple acknowledged a manufacturing defect affecting some iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro models where receiver modules fail, causing no sound during calls.
👉 Check eligibility here: Apple’s iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro Service Program for No Sound Issues
If your device qualifies, Apple will repair it free of charge.
🧰 When to Contact Apple Support
If your iPhone:
- Has no sound even after a full reset
- Shows “No Service” or “Headphones” stuck message
- Has physical or water damage
➡️ Visit an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider, or contact Apple Support directly via Apple Support.
✅ Summary
| Problem | Likely Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| No ringtone or alerts | Silent mode or volume | Check switch & volume |
| No sound during calls | Hardware defect | Check Apple service program |
| Sound in some apps only | Software glitch | Update or reinstall apps |
| Stuck in headphone mode | Port issue | Clean Lightning port |
| All sound gone | System glitch | Restart or reset settings |
Key Takeaways
- Some iPhone 12 and 12 Pro models have a no sound issue during calls.
- Sound problems can be diagnosed through testing and process of elimination.
- Support for this issue is available through Apple’s service program.
Diagnosing Sound Problems on iPhone 12
When an iPhone 12 experiences sound issues, the problem may lie in software settings or hardware components. This section provides a methodical approach to identify and resolve sound problems on the iPhone 12.
Software Troubleshooting
First, check the Settings app for volume and sound settings. The Control Center also offers quick adjustments for sound levels and silencing functions. Ensure Do Not Disturb mode is off and the mute switch on the side of the device is not activated. Examine Bluetooth settings to disconnect from unnecessary devices that might route sound away from the phone. For persistent issues, try to reset all settings, as this might resolve software-related sound problems without erasing personal data.
Hardware Examination
Look at the receiver module and speaker to spot any visible signs of damage like cracks or blockages. Check the Lightning port for debris that could interfere with sound output. The mute switch should click into place firmly, indicating proper function. For iPhones manufactured between October 2020 and April 2021, confirm with Apple if your device is eligible for the service program related to sound issues since a known hardware defect may affect the iPhone 12 and 12 Pro models.
Support and Service for iPhone 12 Sound Issues
Apple has acknowledged a sound issue with some iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro models and offers a service program for affected devices.
Assistance from Apple
Customers experiencing no sound on their iPhone 12 or 12 Pro when making or receiving calls may be eligible for Apple’s repair program. Apple Support provides services including mail-in repairs or appointments at an Apple retail store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider. This program covers eligible devices free of charge for two years after the first retail sale.
Additional Repair Information
Devices manufactured between October 2020 and April 2021 could be part of this worldwide service program. If the iPhone has additional damage that may impede the repair, such as a cracked screen, this will need to be resolved prior to the service. In some cases, there may be a cost associated with the additional repair.
