Why does the sound on my phone keep going in and out?
Intermittent loss of audio is a frustrating and common problem that many smartphone users experience. The sound may cut in and out or stop working entirely during calls, media playback, or other audio uses. A few seconds of choppy audio here and there may seem like a minor annoyance, but frequent or lengthy audio dropouts can make it difficult to hear conversations, enjoy videos and music, or use other basic phone features.
There are a number of potential hardware, software, connectivity, and environmental issues that can cause the sound on smartphones to cut out. Identifying the specific cause requires some troubleshooting but resolving the problem usually just involves adjusting settings, upgrading software, or replacing a faulty component. With some helpful tips, users can get to the bottom of sound problems and restore smooth, uninterrupted audio on their phones.
Common Causes
There are a few common causes for why the sound on your phone may keep cutting in and out:
Damaged Headphone Jack
One of the most common reasons is a damaged headphone jack on your phone. If the headphone jack is loose, worn out, or filled with debris like lint or dust, it can cause the audio signal to get interrupted. This leads to the cutting in and out sound as the signal makes and breaks contact inside the port. Replacing the headphone jack or cleaning out the port with compressed air can often resolve this issue.
Software Issues
Problems with your device’s software can also lead to intermittent audio. Issues like bugs, glitches, outdated software, or too many apps running in the background can cause the audio playback to stutter or cut out temporarily. Updating your phone’s operating system, closing background apps, or resetting your phone to factory settings may help fix the problem.
Network Connectivity Problems
If you’re streaming music or videos over Wi-Fi or cellular data, weak internet connectivity can disrupt the audio stream and cause cut outs. This happens when there is high network congestion or you move out of range of a steady wireless signal. To fix this, try moving closer to your Wi-Fi router or into an area with better cellular reception.
Headphone Jack
A loose, damaged, or faulty headphone jack is one of the most common reasons for intermittent sound when using wired headphones or earbuds with a smartphone. The headphone jack contains a number of small metal contacts that touch the corresponding contacts on the plug of the headphones to transmit the audio signal. If the jack becomes loose or damaged, these contacts may not connect properly with the headphone plug, resulting in cutting in and out of the sound as the connection is made and broken (source).
There are a few solutions for troubleshooting a headphone jack issue:
- Inspect the jack for dust, lint or debris that may be obstructing the contacts and gently clean with compressed air if needed.
- Check for size differences between the jack and headphone plug – sometimes using an adapter can improve the connection.
- Plug the headphones into another device to test if the issue is with the headphones or the device jack.
- Gently move or wiggle the plug in the jack to try to get a better connection of the contacts.
- As a temporary fix, use a toothpick or paperclip to push out the jack contacts so they spring back out and make better contact with the headphone plug.
If the above steps do not resolve the problem, the headphone jack itself may need to be replaced. While requiring some technical skill, the headphone jack is often a replaceable part that can restore normal audio function.
Software Issues
Software problems are a common cause of intermittent sound on phones. Issues with the operating system, app conflicts, and outdated drivers can all lead to glitchy audio. An outdated or buggy OS may have compatibility problems or bugs that disrupt the audio system (Source). For example, some users have reported crackling or distorted sound after updating to a new version of Android. Reverting to an older OS or waiting for a software patch may resolve this.
Conflicts between apps can also cause the audio to cut in and out, especially if you have audio enhancement or sound booster apps installed. Try uninstalling any unnecessary audio apps and see if that stabilizes the sound. Outdated audio drivers can also be the culprit. Check for driver updates through your device settings or manufacturer’s website to get the latest optimized drivers.
If you’re experiencing intermittent sound on calls, apps, or media, software issues are a prime suspect. Update software, remove audio app conflicts, and get updated drivers to troubleshoot any software-related causes of the problem.
Network Connectivity
One common cause of sound going in and out on smartphones is network connectivity issues. If you experience choppy audio or dropped calls, it could be due to a weak cellular signal or problems switching between WiFi and mobile data.[1] A weak cell signal, especially in buildings, elevators or rural areas, can interfere with the transmission of your voice during calls. Similarly, if your phone struggles to switch smoothly between WiFi and mobile data networks, it may briefly lose connectivity resulting in audio issues.
Try moving closer to a window or outside to get better cellular reception. You can also try disabling WiFi so your phone relies solely on mobile data during calls. Go to Settings > WiFi and toggle WiFi off. Additionally, turn off WiFi Calling if enabled under Settings > WiFi Calling. This prevents your phone from routing calls over WiFi networks. Proper network connectivity is key for consistent audio quality during calls. If you continue experiencing issues, contact your mobile carrier about cell signal strength in your area.
Bluetooth Interference
One of the most common causes of intermittent sound when using Bluetooth headphones or speakers is interference from other wireless devices. As Audio-Technica explains, “Another common cause of Bluetooth interference is having an object that impedes the signal between the two devices. Wireless devices perform best when there is a clear line of sight between them.” (source)
Bluetooth operates on the 2.4GHz frequency band, which is also used by many other wireless technologies like WiFi, cordless phones, baby monitors, and microwave ovens. All these devices can potentially interfere with Bluetooth signals. As Sony notes, “Signal interference may occur when a Wi-Fi® device is in use near the unit if they both use the same 2.4 GHz frequency band. Turn off the Wi-Fi access point when not in use.” (source)
To avoid interference, try moving further away from other wireless devices or turning them off when using Bluetooth audio. Also be aware of physical obstructions like walls or your own body that can block the Bluetooth signal between devices. Keeping your connected Bluetooth devices within 30 feet and direct line of sight usually provides the most reliable connection.
Outdated Phone
Older phones tend to have more issues with sound cutting in and out compared to newer models. As phones age, the internal components and hardware can deteriorate, leading to problems with the audio system. For example, the headphone jack, speakers, microphone, and audio processing chip may become damaged or worn out over time through regular use.
Phones that are several generations old may start having intermittent audio because they lack the power and optimized software to efficiently process the demands of streaming high definition video and audio. The processor and RAM begin to lag, which can cause the sound to skip, cut out frequently, or have latency issues.
Additionally, an outdated phone may not be fully compatible with newer apps, Bluetooth devices, and operating system updates. This lack of compatibility can create software conflicts that disrupt the audio. The phone may have reached the limit of its capabilities, while apps and accessories continue advancing to leverage newer hardware. Frequently updating the phone’s software can help, but an older model will eventually be outpaced.
If your phone is more than 2-3 years old, upgrading to a newer device may be the ultimate solution for resolving ongoing sound cut out problems. With refreshed internal components and optimized software, a newer phone will be better equipped to deliver consistent, smooth audio playback.
Moisture Damage
One of the most common causes of sound cutting in and out on a smartphone is moisture damage. When water or other liquids get inside the phone, they can cause shorts and corrosion on the internal circuit boards where the speakers, microphone, and headphone jack are located.
Liquids can enter the phone through cracks in the casing, the headphone jack port, the charging port, or even the speaker and microphone holes. Just small amounts of moisture is enough to cause issues.
According to this Reddit thread, liquid causes short circuits and the best solution is to completely power down the phone and let it dry out for up to a week. This allows time for the liquid to fully evaporate before further damage can occur.
Placing the phone in a bowl of uncooked rice is a popular home remedy. The rice will help absorb any residual moisture. Just be sure to remove any cases so the rice can access all areas. After letting it dry out, power on the phone and test the speakers and audio ports. If the issue persists, you may need professional repair.
Preventing liquid damage in the first place is ideal. Using waterproof cases, avoiding spills near the phone, and not exposing the phone to damp areas can reduce the risk. But accidents happen and moisture damage is a very common source of intermittent sound problems.
Other Hardware
Issues with the phone’s hardware like speakers and microphones malfunctioning can also cause problems with sound coming in and out. The speaker membranes can become damaged over time and cause cracking or popping sounds. Debris and dust buildup in the speakers can muffle the audio. Microphones may start to fail as phones age, leading to problems with hearing the other person on calls.
If the sound problems persist across different apps and situations, it likely indicates a hardware problem. Visually inspect the speakers and microphone ports for any obstructions or damage. Try using canned air to blow out any dust or debris blocking the speakers. If the issues continue, the phone may need repair or replacement of the speakers or microphone components. In some cases, a factory reset can temporarily resolve microphone or speaker problems before they fully fail.
According to Cell Phone Repair, common signs of hardware failure include muffled sound, audio only coming from one speaker, hissing/popping/crackling noises, or microphone not picking up any sound.
Preventative Tips
There are some steps you can take to prevent issues with your phone’s sound cutting in and out:
Phone Case
Using a protective case on your phone can help prevent damage to the headphone jack and other ports where dust and debris can accumulate. Make sure to use a case with port covers or raised edges around ports.
Adjust Audio Settings
Check your phone’s audio settings and disable any audio enhancements or sound effects that could be interfering. You may also try adjusting the audio balance or turning off the option to reduce loud sounds which can sometimes cause intermittent cut outs.
Clean Headphone Jack
Use compressed air to spray out any dust or debris that may have collected in your phone’s headphone jack or charging port. You can also use a toothpick or non-metallic tool to gently clean out the ports.
Update Software
Installing the latest software updates for your phone can help resolve bugs that may be causing audio issues. Keep your phone’s operating system up-to-date.
Avoid Moisture
Moisture damage can impact your phone’s speakers and microphone. Avoid exposing your phone to liquids and humidity as much as possible.