Find the cause step by step
- Open WhatsApp’s permissions (path below) and allow the microphone.
- Turn off Bluetooth and remove the case. Record a test voice note.
- Record in the phone’s voice recorder. If that’s silent too, clean the mic hole with a soft dry brush.
- On WhatsApp Web or Desktop, use the test above to see if the computer is picking up sound.
Symptom, cause and fix
| Symptom | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Voice note comes out silent | No permission, or the mic is covered | Allow it; remove the case; clean |
| Calls: nobody hears you | Bluetooth earbuds connected | Turn off Bluetooth or use the earbuds |
| Silent in every app | Phone mic dirty or faulty | Clean it; repair shop |
| WhatsApp Web without a mic | Browser permission | Allow it in the lock icon of the address bar |
Where to find it on your device
- Android: Settings › Apps › WhatsApp › Permissions › Microphone › Allow.
- iPhone: Settings › Privacy & Security › Microphone › turn on WhatsApp.
Related questions
Why are my WhatsApp voice notes quiet?
Usually your hand or the case is covering the phone’s bottom mic, or there’s dirt in the hole. Speak close to the bottom of the phone.
Does cleaning the mic with a needle help?
Don’t use a needle or pin: they can puncture the mic’s mesh. Use a soft dry brush or compressed air.
The mic works on normal calls but not on WhatsApp. What is it?
It’s the app’s permission or another app using the mic at the same time. Allow the permission and close screen recorders and calling apps.
The WhatsApp mic doesn’t work when the screen turns off. Why?
Battery optimization can pause WhatsApp in the background. On Android, set WhatsApp’s battery use to Unrestricted under Settings › Apps › WhatsApp › Battery.
The WhatsApp mic is not working on my laptop. What should I check?
On Windows, allow desktop apps under Privacy & security › Microphone and pick the right mic in WhatsApp’s settings. On WhatsApp Web, allow the mic in the browser’s lock icon.
More problems: microphone test
- Mic not working on PC: how to fix it on Windows
- Headset mic not working on PC: how to fix it
- Laptop mic not working: how to fix it
- Mic not working on Discord: how to fix it
- Mic not working in Google Meet: how to fix it
- Mic not working in Teams: how to fix it
- Mic too quiet on PC: how to turn up the volume
- Mic static and background noise: how to get rid of it
- Mic echo: why other people hear their own voice
- Phone mic not working: how to test and fix it
- Mic cutting out on Discord: how to fix it
- Phone mic only works on speaker: why and how to fix it
- OBS mic too quiet: how to make it louder without hiss
- How to test a mic on PC, laptop, phone, iPhone and Teams
Open the full microphone test →
Updated November 12, 2026.