September 17, 2023 at 4:42 p.m. PST
- All iPhone 12 through 15 models (including mini, Plus, Pro and Pro Max variations) have four microphones: two on the bottom, one in the top earpiece, and one on the back camera assembly.
- Every model of iPhone since the original version debuted in 2007 features at least one high-performance microphone located at the bottom left of the phone.
- Apple sources microphones from third-party companies like Goertek, AAC Technologies, Knowles, and Infineon.
Where Is My iPhone’s Microphone?
iPhone microphone location isn’t as obvious as it seems. Since your iPhone’s microphones are small and embedded with other components, many wonder where the microphone is on their iPhone. While every iPhone has at least one microphone on the left bottom, newer models have them all over, including the top, front, and back.
Specifically, all models, including and beyond the iPhone 12 series, feature four microphones. Two mics are placed at the bottom of the iPhone, each located in a speaker grille hole. Another mic is placed inside the top front earpiece. Apple added yet another microphone on the back camera assembly.
Typically, one microphone serves as the primary input device, with others used for noise cancellation or to enhance stereo pickup.
Apple loves to place microphones inside or near speaker grille assemblies. It makes sense because speakers and microphones need protection from the elements. Placing microphones in speaker grilles helps filter out harsh plosives, much like a pop filter on a studio microphone.
Although most modern iPhone models feature multiple microphones, they are an array or system. You can’t just turn one mic off. iOS will only let you mute all mics or none. When you shoot video and switch between cameras, your iPhone decides which mic(s) to use.
Also, features such as Voice Isolation and Wide Spectrum recording depend on multiple mics used differently. In Wide Spectrum audio recording, your iPhone’s mics are used to pick up sound. With Voice Isolation, one or more mics detect sound, while another mic serves as input for noise cancellation algorithms.
If you’re wondering why there’s a microphone on the back of your iPhone, it serves at least two purposes. It provides input for noise cancellation. If you’re on a phone call and your iPhone is at your ear, the back microphone faces incoming noise. iOS uses this auditory data to cancel out unwanted noise on phone calls and in other applications.
The back microphone also serves to pick up sound while you record video. In this case, your iPhone uses other mics to eliminate unwanted noise or pick up wide-spectrum audio. In some apps, you can toggle between these two modes.
There are many iPhone models, each with mics located in different locations. This article shows you where every iPhone mic is, from the newest 14 Pro Max to the first model. Let’s start with the latest iPhone first:
Where is My iPhone 15 Pro Max Microphone?
Release Date: September 2023
Number of Microphones: 4
What’s the difference between the iPhone 15 Pro Max and last year’s model? Not much. The newer one has a titanium outer band and other material science innovations. Of course, it has an upgraded processor and camera system.
Big Media tech journalists are so excited about the USB-C port. I don’t know about you, but it makes very little difference to us. You can move assets off your iPhone faster if you’re an audio-visual professional. Unfortunately, Apple restricts what you can transfer from an iPhone or iPad over a direct cable connection.
People requiring blazing-fast data transfer for media files typically don’t use an iPhone to record videos. They use professional video cameras with superior methods for transferring massive amounts of data to a computer for editing.
If you were hoping USB-C would enable your iPhone to fully charge in a few minutes, that won’t happen either. Charging times are about the same.
Many of the supposed benefits of a USB-C iPhone don’t pan out, including the notion that users can use just one charger. You need multiple chargers if you must charge more than one device at a time.
The EU compelled Apple to switch from Lightning to USB-C. It’s a boon to lawmakers seeking credit for addressing e-waste and climate change without impacting the worst offenders.
If not for the law, the iPhone 15 Pro Max would still use a Lightning adapter. Since Apple switched to USB-C power supplies a few years ago, you must now charge your new iPhone with a USB-C to USB-C cable instead of a USB-C to Lightning cable.
What a massive difference! What will they think of next? Tech writers have played up the importance of this port change primarily because they don’t have anything better to write about. Yes, you can now unplug the USB-C charging cable from your MacBook and use it to charge your new iPhone. The problem is most iPhone users don’t own MacBooks. Many of them don’t own computers at all.
Again, the EU compelled Apple to make this change. Lightning’s slightly smaller form factor and adequate power and data transmissions would have served future iPhone models until they became wireless.
Part of the reason why the new iPhone has so few innovations is because Apple had to address the port change. While it’s trivial to the end user, Apple engineers had to re-design, implement, and test a completely new power and data conduit.
If you’re delighted about the port change, remember, it came at the opportunity cost of other, more critical features Apple could have implemented. There’s only a certain amount of work its team can accomplish in a year, and the USB-C port change gobbled up time and effort. I’m not sure why The Verge and other publications are so ecstatic about this, but it may have something to do with their chummy relationship with Big Tech.
Other than that, it’s the same phone with the same microphone arrangement as last year’s Pro Max model. You’d be hard-pressed to tell the difference between an iPhone 15 Pro Max and an iPhone 14 Pro Max. Everyone at Appledystopia is skipping this one, but it’s a compelling choice if you haven’t bought an iPhone in a few years.
A modestly improved iPhone 15 Pro Max isn’t all bad. Slow, steady innovations improve product stability. If you’re in the market for a new iPhone, this one will be stable and predictable. If the Lightning port on your iPhone bothered you, switching to the iPhone 15 Pro Max will soothe your irritation.
Where is My iPhone 15 Pro Microphone?
Release Date: September 2023
Number of Microphones: 4
The iPhone 15 Pro is a smaller version of the Pro Max. Instead of a 6.7″ display, the more diminutive model sports a 6.1″ display. You also miss out on the superior telephoto camera found on the Pro Max model. Other than that, they’re the same phone.
We have no problem with that! Not everyone wants to carry a massive smartphone, even if titanium makes it a bit lighter. The larger screen may be overkill if you don’t watch a lot of videos or play games on your iPhone.
Since they’re so similar, much like the iPhone 15 Pro Max, the iPhone 15 Pro features four microphones. There are two on the bottom, one along the tiny slit at the top-front of the phone and one in the rear camera assembly.
If you already have an iPhone 14 Pro, you may want to skip this one unless you’re a massive Apple fan or in the subscription program. Perhaps you feel strongly about USB-C. If so, this is the iPhone you’ve been waiting for! Now, you can charge it with a different cable. If that’s not progress, I don’t know what is! Thanks for civilizing us once again, Europe!
Where is My iPhone 15 Plus Microphone?
Release Date: September 2023
Number of Microphones: 4
The iPhone 15 Plus is shaping up to be one of the best values in Apple’s 2023 lineup. Minus the 120 Hz display and superior cameras, it’s essentially an iPhone 14 Pro Max. It even features the same A16 Bionic processor.
Apple was generous enough this year to give Dynamic Island to the base and Plus models. We think it’s an oversold gimmick that covers up a big oval punched in the screen.
Bring back the notch! Better yet, ditch Face ID and place a Touch ID sensor on the side button. Then, the screen would require a small hole for the front camera. Maybe Apple could even figure out how to place it under the screen.
Despite having inferior cameras to the 15 Pro series, the cameras on the 15 Plus are pretty amazing. You can finally take 48MP photos on an iPhone that costs less than $1000.
Apple’s generosity extends beyond the cameras and Dynamic Island. They also give you four microphones, just like the Pro models. There are two on the bottom, one on the earpiece and another on the back camera assembly.
Where is My iPhone 15 Microphone?
Release Date: September 2023
Number of Microphones: 4
The iPhone 15 is just a smaller version of the 15 Plus. Or, you may consider the 15 Plus a larger version of the iPhone 15. Whatever floats your boat.
Unlike the Pro models, the only differences between these phones are the screen and battery. Of course, the larger battery in the 15 Plus will drain faster, as its bigger screen requires more power. Both models provide the same amount of powered-on usage hours.
Given the similarities, the microphones are just where you’d expect them to be — two on the bottom, one in the earpiece, and another on the back camera assembly. Overall, we like the iPhone 15 and feel it’s an excellent value for all.
Where is My iPhone 14 Pro Max Microphone?
Release Date: September 2022
Number of Microphones: 4
The iPhone 14 Pro Max is Apple’s newest flagship smartphone. It boasts four microphones, all with various purposes. The bottom two microphones are the primary input devices. There’s another mic on the front, near the earpiece, and yet another on the rear camera assembly.
Where is My iPhone 14 Pro Microphone?
Release Date: September 2022
Number of Microphones: 4
The iPhone 14 Pro is virtually identical to the iPhone 14 Pro Max. The main difference is screen size. The iPhone 14 Pro Max features a 6.7″ screen, while the smaller iPhone 14 Pro has a 6.1″ screen. As you can see, mic placement is precisely the same.
Where is My iPhone 14 Plus Microphone?
Release Date: September 2022
Number of Microphones: 4
The iPhone 14 Plus was a gamble that didn’t pay off for Apple. The company thought a larger screen base model would appeal to consumers. It ended up being the least popular model of the 2022 lineup. It turns out that people who want big screens also want professional features, such as high-end cameras. Nonetheless, the iPhone 14 Plus’ microphones are in the same locations as its more expensive peers.
Where is My iPhone 14 Microphone?
Release Date: September 2022
Number of Microphones: 4
The iPhone 14 is the base model of the 2022 lineup. It’s basically the same as the iPhone 14 Plus, with a smaller screen size. The Plus model features a 6.7″ screen, while its base model peer only has a 6.1″ screen. Again, the microphones are in the same location as the other iPhone 14 models.
Where is My 3rd Generation iPhone SE Microphone?
Release Date: September 2022
Number of Microphones: 4
Although it’s considered a budget model, the third-generation iPhone SE splurges on microphones. Its mic placement resembles Apple’s more expensive 2022 iPhone models, with two at the bottom, one on the top, and one on the rear camera assembly.
Where is My iPhone 13 Pro Max Microphone?
Release Date: September 2021
Number of Microphones: 4
The iPhone 13 Pro Max was a huge evolution for Apple. For years, Android fans enjoyed amazing displays with 120Hz refresh rates. The iPhone 13 Pro series was Apple’s first foray into 120Hz screen technology.
The iPhone 13 Pro Max features the same microphone configuration as its 14 Pro successor. Apart from the oval notch, Dynamic Island, an improved processor, and some camera improvements, the iPhone 13 Pro Max is the same phone as the iPhone 14 Pro series. In fact, many customers still purchased iPhone 13 Pro models when the iPhone 14 Pro series was in short supply.
Where is My iPhone 13 Pro Microphone?
Release Date: September 2021
Number of Microphones: 4
The iPhone 13 Pro has mics in the same location as its “Max” sibling. There are two mics on the bottom, one on the earpiece and another on the rear camera assembly. They all work in concert to provide wide-spectrum audio or filter out noise.
Where is My iPhone 13 Microphone?
Release Date: September 2021
Number of Microphones: 4
The base iPhone 13 also features four microphones. The mic cutout on the back of the camera assembly is larger, so one may mistake it for another type of sensor. In my research, I found that it’s a microphone covered by a pop/wind filter, even though it has a bigger hole than the Pro models.
Where is My iPhone 13 Mini Microphone?
Release Date: September 2021
Number of Microphones: 4
The iPhone 13 Mini was another size experiment that proved unpopular. If you’re going to offer a smaller iPhone, the price must be appropriate. With a recent SE model available, the budget-minded consumer had other options. Nonetheless, the iPhone 13 Mini features four microphones like any other modern iPhone.
Where is My iPhone 12 Pro Max Microphone?
Release Date: October 2020
Number of Microphones: 4
The iPhone 12 Pro Max was the first of the large-screen Pro models. Prior to this, the Max model featured a 6.5″ screen, compared to the 6.7″ screen found in the 12, 13, and 14 Pro Max models. Like it’s more modern successors, the iPhone 12 Pro Max features four microphones in the usual places — two at the bottom, one in the earpiece, and one in the rear camera assembly.
Most websites claim that the iPhone 12 series only has three mics, with one on the bottom. This is because most tech journalists didn’t notice the second bottom microphone until the iPhone 13 came out. It was actually in the iPhone 12 too.
I did a lot of research and looked at x-ray photos of iPhone 12 models. You can clearly see two microphones packed in the bottom assembly. If that’s not enough, AT&T’s website states it explicitly: “…receiver/microphones are located on the bottom of the device.” Since “microphones” is plural, there must be at least two at the bottom.
Where is My iPhone 12 Pro Microphone?
Release Date: October 2020
Number of Microphones: 4
The main difference between the iPhone 12 Pro and Pro Max is screen size. Other than that, they’re the same device with identical microphone placement.
Where is My iPhone 12 Microphone?
Release Date: October 2020
Number of Microphones: 4
As the base model of the iPhone 12 lineup, this smartphone has everything the average person could want. If you’re not a creator, the cameras are sufficient, and the microphones are the same as in the more expensive Pro models. Apple duplicates designs and uses many of the same parts to save costs. Thus, the mics are in the same location as the Pro and Pro Max models.
Where is My iPhone 12 Mini Microphone?
Release Date: October 2020
Number of Microphones: 4
The most interesting thing about the iPhone 12 Mini was that it was a flop. Nonetheless, Apple introduced another Mini model next year. Given that the designs are so similar, it’s not a lot of extra work for Apple to create a one-off iPhone. But you have to wonder why the geniuses at Apple went for another Mini iPhone in 2021 when the previous year’s model was a flop.
My guess is that it’s a personality issue — the executive in charge of the iPhone Mini is very convincing and wanted another shot. Merit wasn’t a factor, but when you have the hottest brand in the world, you can sell virtually anything, and your products only compete against each other. If someone doesn’t want an iPhone Mini, they get the base, Pro, or Pro Max model. They don’t go out and get a Samsung.
Nonetheless, the iPhone Mini has four mics, all in the usual places. This is how Apple leverages design across multiple models to reduce costs.
Where is My 2nd Generation iPhone SE Microphone?
Release Date: April 2020
Number of Microphones: 3
The iPhone SE harkens back to when Apple only placed one microphone at the bottom. Despite this configuration, the 2nd generation iPhone SE can record in full stereo.
Like other iPhone models, this one has another mic in the earpiece and one in the rear camera assembly. For an inexpensive smartphone, it’s remarkably well-equipped!
Where is My iPhone 11 Pro Max Microphone?
Release Date: September 2019
Number of Microphones: 3
The iPhone Pro Max continued Apple’s line of large-screen, professional smartphones. The 6.5″ screen ran at just 60Hz, but if you’re an Apple fan, you probably don’t care.
This was the first iPhone with three cameras. It also had three microphones. Despite having only one microphone at the bottom, it can record audio in true stereo.
Where is My iPhone 11 Pro Microphone?
Release Date: September 2019
Number of Microphones: 3
The iPhone 11 Pro was Apple’s premier professional smartphone. You may wonder who needs a “professional” smartphone for their job or career. It’s not for doctors, lawyers, or engineers. Instead, it’s aimed at social media personalities, with the general public buying most of them.
I’ve seen plenty of unemployed teenagers and college students brandishing professional iPhones. If your career is mooching off your parents, a professional iPhone with multiple microphones may make you sound more credible.
As with all pre-September 2020 iPhone models, this one only has three microphones. Apple started adding a second microphone on the bottom, starting with the iPhone 12, which debuted in September 2020.
Where is My iPhone 11 Microphone?
Release Date: September 2019
Number of Microphones: 3
If you’re not a professional smartphone user, you may have settled for an iPhone 11. It was a decent smartphone in its day; however, in terms of specs, flagship Android devices are always a few years ahead in most respects.
As with all 2019 iPhone models, the iPhone 11 has three microphones. When you think about it, that’s quite a bargain because the Pro models also have three microphones. It’s like Apple is into microphone philanthropy.
Where is My iPhone XS Max Microphone?
Release Date: September 2018
Number of Microphones: 3
While some may pronounce this “ex es,” it’s really called the iPhone “ten es.” Apple is OK with either pronunciation as long as you decide to purchase one. They give it an ambiguous name so the Apple Store geniuses can chuckle when a customer calls it the iPhone “excess.”
The 6.5″ screen was the largest iPhone display ever. This was the first Max iPhone model, which proved quite successful. Apple fans are willing to spend top dollar for an iPhone, with the most expensive models often being the most popular. Zero-interest financing and an innovative iPhone “upgrade program” have much to do with consumers purchasing the most expensive models.
Despite the more straightforward camera array, this one has a mic in the back. The iPhone community seems to agree that it’s used when your record video with the back cameras.
Where is My iPhone XS Microphone?
Release Date: September 2018
Number of Microphones: 3
The iPhone XS is virtually identical to the XS Max. The only difference is that it has a 5.8″ display instead of the Max’s larger 6.5″ display. In fact, it’s so similar, we used the same graphics in our mic illustration. (Thanks, Apple! Your homogeneity saved us some time!)
Where is My iPhone XR Microphone?
Release Date: September 2018
Number of Microphones: 3
Launched alongside the XS series, the XR was the budget option of the 2018 lineup. Available in a wide array of bright colors, its design harkens back to the iPhone 5C but with much better hardware, including a Face ID sensor.
One interesting feature of the iPhone XR is its 6.1″ display, which is slightly larger than the 5.8″ iPhone XS display. With the XS, you get better cameras, but the XR version features a more prominent display.
It’s an intelligent strategy. The XS is more suited for creators, and the XR is better for content consumers. At this point, Apple didn’t have the hubris to call it a Pro. At the time, many industry watchers, including yours truly, believed Apple would never launch an iPhone Pro. It still seems like an oxymoron, but many people earn a living on their iPhones.
The “professional” status of the iPhone has a lot to do with changes in the workplace. When the first iPhone launched, there was no such thing as an influencer, and MySpace was the hottest thing in social media. Today, any bimbo with an iPhone can earn a living one way or another, with camera quality being one of the most essential features.
The iPhone XR’s back microphone is obvious, once again. It’s more difficult to see on the XS models; however, the iPhone XR clearly features a back microphone between the lens and the flash.
Where is My iPhone X Microphone?
Release Date: September 2018
Number of Microphones: 3
The iPhone X was a massive shift in smartphone technology. It was the first iPhone to feature Face ID. I don’t know about you, but for me, Face ID works about 80% of the time. Like many, I wish Apple would copy the newer iPad models and put a fingerprint scanner on the side power button. Touch ID works 99.999% of the time. Remove the notch entirely, and let’s all forget that the Dynamic Island ever existed.
Ok, enough fantasy Apple executive time. I can completely understand why they went with Face ID. A marketing guy runs the company, and Face ID is a “gee whiz” feature, even if it’s not very good at authentication.
Apple could fix it by repeatedly scanning a face until it gets it right and forcing the passcode option as a last resort. Again, Apple is a large company with strong personalities and sacred cows. What made it great under one leader makes it less successful under another.
Obvious solutions are shunned unless one of the chosen ones conceived of the idea or can abscond with credit for it. This happens all over the Silicon Valley. It’s not unique to Apple.
Most people start to dislike Face ID after a few weeks. I know a few who have disabled the feature entirely, opting for a passcode. I sure do miss Touch ID, but not enough to buy an iPhone SE. The in-screen fingerprint scanner on my Android smartphone is much cooler than anything Apple has delivered.
Where is My iPhone 8 Plus Microphone?
Release Date: September 2017
Number of Microphones: 3
“What happened to the iPhone 9?” is a completely valid question. But let’s not dwell on this too long. For whatever reason, Apple decided to jump from the iPhone 8 to the iPhone X. Oh, and use Hindu-Arabic numerals for all other models, except the X-series, which use Roman numerals.
That’s why they make the big bucks at Apple. You have to be a grade-A manipulator to influence so many people illogically. Only a few can pull that off. Compared to other Silicon Valley companies, most Apple employees aren’t well compensated. Nonetheless, the one who possesses these Jedi mind tricks surely brings home a lot of bacon.
Why not go for binary numbers with the next iPhone? The iPhone 1111 would surely pique interest. Put another camera sensor on the back, and you’re good to go!
Where is My iPhone 8 Microphone?
Release Date: September 2016
Number of Microphones: 3
The iPhone 8 is similar to its larger sibling, the 8 Plus. It only has one camera lens, with the telephoto sensor available on the Plus model.
The 4.7″ display is tiny, but by today’s standards, so is the Plus model’s 5.5″ screen. The current base model iPhone — the 14 — has a 6.1″ screen.
It’s amazing how much bigger iPhones are these days. It proves that the Android ecosystem was right all along. People want to hold something as big as a piece of toast up to their ears. It’s not as ludicrous as the top tech “journalists” used to contend. They were just sucking up to Apple, as usual.
Where is My iPhone 7 Plus Microphone?
Release Date: September 2016
Number of Microphones: 3
This is Apple’s third “large screen” iPhone, with a display that’s considered small by today’s standards. It’s the last of the aluminum-backed iPhones.
You have to wonder why Apple encased the iPhone 8 and later models in glass, making them extremely fragile. There’s no Ceramic Shield protection for the back, even on the newest and most expensive iPhone 14 Pro Max. This means if you drop your expensive, professional iPhone on its glass back, it will cost $199 to fix it.
It used to cost much more to repair an iPhone’s shattered glass back, but Apple reduced the price. It’s still expensive. Why not have a metal back, like an iPad or older iPhones? Probably because they make $199 repairing your accident.
This iPhone 7 Plus features an aluminum back. The worst that will happen if you drop it on its back is maybe a scuff, scratch, or even a dent. That’s much better than shards of glass embedded in your hand unless you pay $199. I think a lot of people just pick out the loose glass and put it in a case.
Where is My iPhone 7 Microphone?
Release Date: September 2016
Number of Microphones: 3
The iPhone 8 and 8 Plus are basically re-hashes of the 7 and 7 Plus series. The iPhone 7 series actually came in more colors. You’d be hard-pressed to pick which one is an iPhone 7 or 8 in a lineup. The world was still recovering from a global recession, so risk-taking wasn’t high on Apple’s agenda.
Where is My 1st Gen iPhone SE Microphone?
Release Date: March 2016
Number of Microphones: 3
The iPhone SE actually wasn’t Apple’s first budget-friendly phone. This honor goes to the iPhone 5C, which we’ll get to later in this article.
The iPhone SE isn’t all about price. Size is also an important factor. While many people want larger phones with bigger screens, others prefer something easy to pocket. A small screen and form factor are beneficial if you’re not playing games or watching TV shows on your iPhone.
Remember when small phones were all the rage? People marveled over how small the original iPhone was. Now, we’re happy to carry around a massive and heavy iPhone 14 Pro Max. I vowed never to buy an enormous smartphone, but I like my iPhone 14 Pro Max, except for the oval and Dynamic Island, which get in the way of movies and games.
Where is My iPhone 6S Plus Microphone?
Release Date: September 2015
Number of Microphones: 4
Apple’s second large-screen iPhone came in the form of the 6S Plus. Its predecessor, the 6 Plus, garnered notoriety over its bendability. iPhone 6 Plus owners damaged their phones simply by putting them in their pockets and sitting down.
Apple seems to have solved the “bend gate” issue with the iPhone 6S Plus. This was back when many Apple products were flimsy, including the iPad Pro, which also bent. Apple handled this by exchanging some but claiming there’s an acceptable level of deformation in some Apple products.
It’s the reality that runs counter to Jony Ive’s perfectionism. Once again, Apple eventually figured out how to make high-quality devices, but it took a few years and lots of criticism and complaints from critics and users.
Where is My iPhone 6S Microphone?
Release Date: September 2015
Number of Microphones: 4
The iPhone 6S was the successor to the iPhone 6. As with many of Apple’s one-year product iterations, you can’t tell the difference between the two. It could be for the best because too many changes often result in too many defects, like an iPhone that bends when you put it in your pocket.
Where is My iPhone 6 Plus Microphone?
Release Date: September 2014
Number of Microphones: 3
Apple’s first large-screen smartphone, the iPhone 6 Plus, measured in at a whopping 5.5″ diagonally. While there were bigger smartphone screens at the time, for Apple, this was huge. It’s most famous for its ability to bend in one’s pocket.
This was also the second year in a row that Apple released two models of iPhone — the 6 and 6 Plus. Before this, Apple launched two iPhone models in 2013 — the 5S and 5C. All other launches before 2013 were for single iPhone models.
Smartphones were still miraculous back then. Most of us never dreamt that Apple would launch five iPhone models in a year, as they did in 2022.
Where is My iPhone 6 Microphone?
Release Date: September 2014
Number of Microphones: 3
The iPhone 6 is a smaller version of the 6 Plus. Apart from differing form factors, they’re almost identical.
The iPhone 6 introduced a new, flat design featuring an aluminum back that persisted for a few years. Apple’s design work with the embedded antenna lines was excellent.
It’s such a great design that Apple kept it around for a few years. The metal back dissipates heat and offers better durability than an all-glass exterior. We can only hope Apple comes to its senses and re-introduces iPhone models with aluminum backs, but with enough strength to prevent stress deformation.
Where is My iPhone 5S Microphone?
Release Date: September 2013
Number of Microphones: 3
In 2013, Apple made a bold move, introducing two new iPhone models. Back then, it was a complete shock. The phrase “just one more thing” would trigger euphoria in any nerd, dork, or geek.
The iPhone 5S is a slight variation on the iPhone 4 design. Most importantly, it employed an aluminum back, which I appreciate greatly. Apart from the back, it’s difficult to tell an iPhone 5S from an iPhone 5. If you only look at the front, the iPhone 4, 5, and 5S are practically identical.
One defining characteristic of the iPhone 5S was its Touch ID sensor. Apple killed the physical Home button with this model, which I applaud greatly. The Home button on older iPhone models received a lot of wear and tear and was therefore failure-prone.
The iPhone 5S is one of the most robust smartphones ever made. Its aluminum back and solid-state Touch ID button made for one remarkably well-built device. Everyone at Appledystopia would love to see Apple return to this design, with a Touch ID-equipped side button and a full screen absent of any notch or oval.
Where is My iPhone 5C Microphone?
Release Date: September 2013
Number of Microphones: 3
The iPhone 5C was Apple’s attempt to capture the cheap Android smartphone consumer. Make no mistake; amazing high-end flagship Android devices rival the latest iPhone 14 Pro Max. But Android was your only option if you wanted an affordable smartphone before 2013.
The iPhone 5C was constructed of polycarbonate plastic. That’s right. Apple made it out of plastic. But it was a $99 smartphone at a time when one could get an Android phone for free.
It turns out that people don’t want a cheap, plastic iPhone. Who knew? Apple sold three times as many iPhone 5S units as its cheaper 5C counterpart. It took three years for Apple to introduce another budget-friendly smartphone, which was much more successful.
Part of the 5C’s failure was Touch ID. It was a remarkable feature for the time and exclusive to the iPhone 5S.
Where is My iPhone 5 Microphone?
Release Date: September 2012
Number of Microphones: 3
Although the iPhone 5 featured a physical Home button, most people weren’t locking their iPhones back then. The average iPhone user didn’t have much sensitive information on their device. Apple pay was still over two years away.
I remember the early days of smartphones. Sometimes, people would even hand their smartphone to a friend to check it out. Those days are long gone.
My favorite thing about the iPhone 5 is that it moved away from the glass sandwich design of the 4 and 4S models. With its anodized aluminum back, dropping your iPhone 5 was only a fifty/fifty chance of regrettable damage.
Where is My iPhone 4S Microphone?
Release Date: October 2011
Number of Microphones: 2
The most astonishing thing about the iPhone 4S wasn’t visible from the outside. This is the smartphone that surprised the world with Siri, the first helpful digital assistant.
Other than Siri, the iPhone 4S and 4 are indistinguishable. They both feature a glass sandwich design that multiplies the probability of damage from a tumble.
Regarding microphones, the iPhone 4S was the last model equipped with only two mics. One is for speaking and the other for noise cancellation. When recording video, the iPhone used the bottom mic for sound input. There is no rear microphone on the iPhone 4S or earlier models.
Where is My iPhone 4 Microphone?
Release Date: June 2010
Number of Microphones: 2
The iPhone 4 was the first Apple smartphone I owned. I waited a few years to purchase one because I wasn’t fond of AT&T as the sole service provider.
I purchased my first smartphone, the iPhone 4, at Costco, along with an agreement to subscribe to Verizon for two years. I got the phone at a remarkable discount; however, the service plan was over $80 monthly.
The iPhone 4 was a great smartphone. I still have mine, and it works today. It’s funny to see the dock connector. I can see why Apple rushed to release Lightning instead of waiting for USB-C or going with Micro-B. The old iPhone and iPod dock reminds me of a parallel printer port from the 80s and 90s.
The stainless steel antenna band was a nice touch, but it produced a furor over antenna reception, branded “antenna gate.” Steve Jobs famously rebuffed the scandal by telling iPhone customers not to hold it a certain way. Apple eventually sent out free bumper cases to smooth over irritated customers.
Where is My iPhone 3GS Microphone?
Release Date: June 2009
Number of Microphones: 1
The iPhone 3GS was Apple’s third smartphone. Constructed with a slightly curved plastic back, it lacked the build quality and refinement of Apple’s original smartphone.
Back then, Apple only placed one microphone in an iPhone. Smartphone microphones were much larger back then. Indeed, Apple’s quest to pack more into a smaller space depends a lot on component manufacturers.
You couldn’t put two microphones in an iPhone 3GS because there wasn’t enough room. The mics were much bigger, and smartphones were smaller. Everyone thought smaller was better back then. I even recall a comedy sketch where they unveiled a new, ridiculously tiny iPhone.
Where is My iPhone 3G Microphone?
Release Date: June 2008
Number of Microphones: 1
Although the iPhone 3G was Apple’s second smartphone, the model name refers to 3G networks. It took about 15 years to get from 3G to LTE to 5G. Viva la difference! Today’s fastest 5G UW speeds rival home Internet performance.
Researching this article, it appears that the iPhone 3G faced many microphone issues. The component Apple used seemed to be very fragile. Many people were forced to replace their iPhone 3G’s microphone, with some not working out of the box.
Where is My 1st Gen iPhone Microphone?
Release Date: June 2007
Number of Microphones: 1
The first iPhone is simply called “iPhone” and not “iPhone 1”. It only worked with the AT&T network in the United States, but eventually launched worldwide.
It’s debatable, but I contend that the original iPhone was the first true smartphone. Some argue that the LG Prada was the first. It’s a smarter feature phone, but not a true smartphone.
Two defining capabilities set the iPhone apart from feature phones. First, its web browser allowed users to see real websites. Although Safari never supported Adobe Flash, most websites were viewable and navigable on the original iPhone. Second, the iPhone’s touch controls surpassed anything on the market at the time. The second closest competitor offered a crude touchscreen implementation. The iPhone just worked elegantly.
Of course, this first iPhone only had one microphone. At the time, few thought of putting multiple mics or cameras on a smartphone. Just getting the basics right was a huge struggle.
We all owe much gratitude to Steve Jobs for pushing Apple to create one of the greatest inventions ever. The iPhone gave us the freedom to enjoy technology almost anywhere. Although Apple has had many ups and downs, and some competitors offer arguably superior smartphones, from the first iPhone to the newest iPhone 14 Pro Max, Apple’s products have pleased customers worldwide.