Free1. Turn off silent mode
In silent mode, iPhones mute web pages as well as ringtones and alerts.
- On iPhones with a switch on the side, flip it so no orange shows.
- On iPhones with an Action button, press and hold it to switch silent mode off, or use the bell button in Control Centre.
- On iPad, open Control Centre and check the bell button isn't set to silent.
2. Turn up the volume
Press the volume up button while something is playing, or use the volume slider in Control Centre. Volume for media and ringtones can be separate; adjust it while the sound is playing.
3. Check AirPods and Bluetooth
Sound may be going to AirPods, a speaker or a car. Open Control Centre, press and hold the music controls, tap the AirPlay icon and choose iPhone or iPad. Or turn Bluetooth off for a moment.
4. Clean the speakers
Brush the speaker grilles gently with a soft, dry, clean brush, and remove the case. Don't use liquids or sharp objects.
5. Check the app
Look for a mute or volume control inside the app or video player. Some apps follow their own sound settings even when the phone's volume is up.
6. Restart and update
- Restart the iPhone or iPad.
- Install updates under Settings › General › Software Update.
Still not working?
Open Settings › Sounds & Haptics and drag the ringtone volume slider: the phone plays a sample. If that's silent too, with no Bluetooth connected, the speaker likely needs repair. Contact Apple Support or an authorised service provider.
Frequently asked questions
Sound only works with headphones.
The speaker may be blocked or faulty. Clean the grille and restart. If the iPhone acts as if headphones are still connected, check the port for lint.
Calls are quiet, but music is fine.
The earpiece speaker at the top of the screen is separate. Clean its grille gently and remove any screen protector that covers it.