Have you ever looked at the back of your iPhone and noticed a point like a small hole? It’s so easy to miss, it’s no bigger than a speck of dust, you’ve probably glanced at it a thousand times without giving it much thought.
But if you’ve ever wondered what it’s for, the answer is pretty simple.
It is a microphone designed to pick up sound from the direction the camera lens is facing.
There are usually two microphones on an iPhone, so you get a good layout of the sound.
One is in the camera module, the other is behind the speaker grille, and the third is on the bottom of the phone.
It’s been like that ever since the iPhone 5 launched just over a decade ago.
Microphones are essential for doing a lot of what you do on your iPhone.
They are used to allow you to make phone calls, record voice notes, or control Siri.
But Apple also uses “beam switches,” which allow microphones to aim in specific directions.
“The built-in microphone input on an iOS device consists of a combination of physical microphones and beamformers,” Apple explains.
It is important to keep iPhone microphones clean and free of debris.
“If the audio is not clear during phone calls, during FaceTime calls, in video recordings, or in apps, learn what to do,” Apple explains.
Wipe the microphones. Remove any screen protectors, cases, or cases from your iPhone.
Remove any leftover holes from your iPhone.
If images are still not clear during calls, recordings, or apps, contact Apple Support to discuss service options.