The microphone isn't working: a flat line and silent recordings

Almost every silent recording comes down to one of four things: permission, another app holding the microphone, an accessory iOS is routing to, or something physically covering the port.

1. Check the permission

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Apps, then Voice Recorder.
3. Turn Microphone on.
4. Come back to the app and start a new take — the meter should move as you speak.

2. Free the microphone

Only one app can hold the microphone at a time. End any call, close a video or voice-note app, and stop anything recording in a browser tab. Then start again.

3. Check where the audio is going

• Bluetooth earbuds become the microphone as soon as they connect — including ones still in the case in your bag. Turn Bluetooth off to test.
• A plugged-in headset with a microphone takes over from the built-in one.
• A car's hands-free system does the same when the phone connects.

4. Look at the phone itself

• A thick case, a screen protector wrapping the edge, or a finger over the bottom edge muffles the microphone.
• Pocket lint in the microphone port is common. A soft dry brush clears it; nothing wet, nothing sharp.
• Test with the iOS Voice Memos app. If that is silent too, it is the hardware or the permission, not this app.

If it records but too quietly

Raise the input gain from the adjust panel while recording — you can do it without stopping. Afterwards, the player's volume boost goes to 200%, and Noise reduction cleans up a thin recording made across a room.