iOS 11.3 update disables microphone on some iPhone 7 models
What's the story
Since its launch, Apple's latest iPhone OS has been a bug-ridden mess. And users can't seem to find an end to their iOS woes. Earlier, Apple's iOS 11.3 update killed touch functionality in some iPhone 8 models. The company soon released an update to fix that problem. More recently, iOS 11.3 and the subsequent updates have now disabled microphones on some iPhone 7 models.
iOS woes
What exactly is happening with these iPhone 7 units
Some iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus users are experiencing issues with the microphone after reportedly updating to the latest iOS 11.3 or subsequent updates. Affected users complained that they cannot be heard during voice calls, video calls on FaceTime or even record voice memos. The circumstances suggest that their phone's microphones have become non-functional or gotten disabled, post the update.
Twitter Post
An affected user took to Twitter asking Apple for help
Hi, Apple. I really need your help! Last night my iphone 7+ underwent a software update for iOS 11.3.1 and ever since, my microphone feature hasn't been functioning. No calls, voice memos, voice record. I've hard reset already and no change. Please help.
— melody (@MLDZZZ) May 2, 2018
Details
Apple has acknowledged this issue
Macrumors claims to have obtained an internal document distributed to Apple Authorized Service Providers this week. "Apple said affected customers may experience a grayed-out speaker button during phone calls," according to Macrumors. Apple has directed its service providers to run audio diagnostics on the affected devices and to initiate repairs if "device could not detect dock" or "accessory not supported" alerts are prompted.
Information
Apple may offer free repairs even for out-of-warranty iPhones
According to Macrumors, "If an affected iPhone 7 or iPhone 7 Plus is no longer covered by warranty, Apple says its service providers can request an exception for this particular issue." While Apple's memo doesn't specify free repairs, it seems likely, given the circumstances.