How to Correct Apple iPhone 15 Pro Microphone Feedback During Video Calls

Introduction
When you’re on a video call with an iPhone 15 Pro, a sudden burst of audio that repeats in an echoing loop can ruin the conversation. This phenomenon, known as microphone feedback, often feels like your own voice is amplifying itself into a screech. The iPhone 15 Pro’s high‑quality microphones and advanced audio processing usually make this rare, but certain conditions can trigger the issue. This guide walks you through every step you can take—right from the simplest checks to advanced troubleshooting—to silence the feedback and get your calls back to crystal‑clear sound.

What Causes Microphone Feedback?
Microphone feedback on the iPhone 15 Pro typically results from one or a combination of the following:

• The internal mic picking up audio from the device’s own speaker or a connected speaker.
• External accessories (headsets, speakers, adapters) creating a closed audio loop.
• Software glitches or misconfigured audio settings.
• Background noise or proximity to the mic that amplifies certain frequencies.
• Physical obstructions or damage to the microphone grille.

Understanding the root cause helps you target the right fix quickly.

Quick Checks
Before diving into deeper settings, perform these three instant checks.

1. Move the phone – Hold it farther away from your ears or move it to a different part of the room.
2. Close background apps – Swipe up and close any app that might be accessing the mic.
3. Restart the call – End the video call and re‑join.

If the echo disappears, you’ve already solved the problem. If not, proceed to the next sections.

Adjusting Audio Settings
The iPhone 15 Pro contains built‑in settings that influence how the mic and speaker interact. Adjusting these can eliminate feedback loops.

Turn Off Noise Cancellation

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Accessibility → Audio/Visual.
3. Toggle Noise Cancellation off.
4. Test the call again.

Noise cancellation can sometimes amplify the mic’s own signal when it processes the audio. Turning it off forces the system to deliver a more direct feed.

Disable Spatial Audio

Spatial Audio creates a surround‑sound effect. When paired with the iPhone’s mic, it can inadvertently create a feedback channel.

• Go to Settings → Audio & AirPlay → Spatial Audio and disable it.

Lower the Mic Gain

The iPhone 15 Pro automatically adjusts mic gain, but you can manually limit it on certain apps (e.g., FaceTime).

• During a call, tap the Screen to bring up controls.
• Tap the Audio icon and choose a lower volume for the mic.

If you use a third‑party app, consult its audio settings for a gain slider.

External Microphones and Headsets
Many users rely on wired or Bluetooth headsets for better audio quality. Improperly configured headsets can be the culprits behind feedback.

Check the Headset Connection

• Wired: Ensure the 3.5 mm or Lightning connector is snug. Loose connections can pick up ambient noise that loops back.
• Bluetooth: Pair and unpair the device, then reconnect.

Use a Dedicated Noise‑Suppression Headset

Some headsets come with built‑in noise‑suppression. If you’re experiencing feedback, try switching to a headset that explicitly supports this feature.

Test with an External Microphone

Plug an external mic (USB‑C, Lightning, or Lightning‑to‑USB adapter) into the iPhone and conduct a video call. If the feedback disappears, the internal mic is at fault, and you should consider using the external mic permanently.

Advanced Troubleshooting

Reset All Settings

This step clears all customizations while preserving data.

1. Go to Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Reset.
2. Choose Reset All Settings.
3. Reboot the phone and test the call.

Update iOS

Apple frequently patches audio-related bugs.

1. Go to Settings → General → Software Update.
2. If an update is available, install it.

Test the Internal Mic with Voice Memos

Open the Voice Memos app and record a short clip.

• If you hear an echo or phantom audio, the mic hardware might be compromised.

Examine Physical Obstructions

Dust, hair, or a foreign object in the mic grille can cause the mic to misinterpret audio.

1. Turn off the phone.
2. Use a flashlight to inspect the grille.
3. Clean gently with a dry brush or a can of compressed air.

Check for Interference

If you’re near a Wi‑Fi router, cordless phone, or other electronic devices, try moving away. Interference can create audio artifacts that the mic picks up and feeds back.

When to Reset the Network
Network settings can influence how the iPhone routes audio to external devices.

• Go to Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Reset → Reset Network Settings.
• Note that this removes saved Wi‑Fi passwords and VPN configurations.

Testing with FaceTime and Zoom
Different apps handle audio routing differently.

1. FaceTime – Start a call with a friend, speak loudly, and observe any echo.
2. Zoom – In the Zoom settings, turn off “Enable Spatial Chat” and test the call.

If feedback occurs in one app but not the other, the issue likely lies in the app’s audio handling.

Contacting Apple Support
If all troubleshooting fails, you have a valid hardware or software issue that requires professional help.

• Open Settings → Help → Contact Apple Support.
• Alternatively, schedule a visit to an Apple Store or authorized service provider.

Provide them with a detailed description of the steps you’ve taken and, if possible, a video recording that shows the feedback.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the iPhone’s own speaker during a video call?
Using the built‑in speaker while the mic is active can cause feedback. Prefer headphones or a separate speaker that does not loop the mic’s audio back into the system.

Does turning on “Raise to Speak” help?
“Raise to Speak” lowers mic sensitivity when the phone is not raised, but it does not stop feedback from a direct audio loop.

Will disabling “Microphone Access” in a specific app help?
Disabling mic access for an app will prevent it from using the mic entirely, which is not desirable during a call.

Is the new Dolby Vision audio a factor?
Dolby Vision is video, not audio. It has no impact on microphone feedback.

Can I repair the microphone myself?
Microphone repairs involve delicate hardware; it’s best left to professionals.

Conclusion
Microphone feedback on the iPhone 15 Pro can be frustrating, but most cases stem from simple configuration oversights or external accessory issues. By systematically following the steps above—checking basic physical conditions, adjusting built‑in settings, testing with external mics, and resetting system preferences—you can usually eliminate the echo and enjoy smooth, clear video calls.

If after all these measures the problem persists, it indicates a deeper hardware fault that only Apple’s certified technicians can resolve. Remember to keep your iOS up to date and to test your setup regularly, especially when upgrading accessories or moving to new environments. Happy, echo‑free conversations!