Why does sound disappear on Android phone and what to do in this case?

Sound loss is a frequent issue that can be attributed to one of three factors: user error in software settings, operating system failure, or technical issues with the phone itself.

If you’re experiencing a loss of sound on your phone, there are a few steps you can take before resorting to the expense of a service center. By identifying the root cause of the malfunction, you may be able to resolve the issue on your own.

The most common causes of sound disappearance

If there is an absence of audio, it could be due to system settings, a malfunctioning multimedia application, such as a video viewer, or issues with firmware. The typical software-related problems include:

If the volume is at the minimum value

When troubleshooting muted sound on a phone, the initial step is to verify the current volume level. In some cases, such as with Lenovo firmware, there may be a glitch where the smartphone freezes and the sound is eventually muted at a specific volume level. To resolve this issue, adjusting the "Melody," "Alarm clock," and "Multimedia" sliders should help.

It is worth double-checking the sound mode of your phone. Occasionally, smartphones can automatically switch to silent mode. For Samsung devices, simply pressing "#" for a few seconds unintentionally can mute the sound. On other occasions, users may forget that they have manually turned off the sound. If you notice an unfamiliar icon in the top information bar, it may signal the need to adjust the sound mode and increase the volume.

Android software malfunction

Malfunctioning Android software can result in a lack of sound on your smartphone. There are several potential causes for this issue:

• Running apps that require Root permissions
• Installing programs from questionable sources
• Saving apk files in the internal memory of the cell phone
• Performing a factory reset
• Attempting to re-flash the device on your own
• Installing applications that conflict with the operating environment

If you are experiencing a lack of sound on your Android phone, the first step is to check the status of the processes responsible for the sound part of the firmware.

• Access the system settings menu
• Go to "Applications" – "Application Manager";
• Swipe from right to left to access the list of active system processes;
• Find the service responsible for sound among the list of programs and applications;
• Check if the sound service is running. If not, activate it.

If you are unable to start the sound service manually for any reason, you can reset the firmware to factory settings. You can do this in the system menu during the reboot process by entering Recovery mode.

If the sound issue is only occurring in a specific application, it may be due to a software conflict.

Black list of contacts

Blacklist Contact List Settings

If a caller is unable to be heard during a phone call, but audio functions properly when playing music or videos, please check the blacklist of contacts. This feature mutes incoming calls from ignored contacts.

To confirm if this is the issue, check the screen when receiving a call – a corresponding symbol should appear next to the caller’s name. Alternatively, you can view the list of blocked contacts by navigating to the blacklist section within the menu.

Speaker failure

If the cell phone only produces sound through a voice headset or in hands-free mode, then the issue is with the conversation speaker.

Some contemporary devices are equipped with multiple speakers, each responsible for its own area of sound reproduction.

What to do if the sound is lost on the phone

If you have figured out the reason for the malfunction, you can attempt to rectify the device’s performance issues by yourself. Here are a few steps you can take:

If you happen to forget that you enabled the silent mode, or if it was activated by the system spontaneously, all you need to do is go to the "Sound" settings and increase the volume.

Resetting your phone to its default factory settings is quite drastic and will result in the loss of all your data, including photos, videos, social media conversations, and installed apps.

Factory reset is the final option to consider when all else fails, requiring a visit to the service center if it fails to resolve the issue. By restoring the device’s settings to their original factory state, you can effectively troubleshoot firmware-related problems and address conflicts with any installed applications.

Using headphones

It is not uncommon for wired headsets to inadvertently lose sound when used with headphones. This can occur if dust, crumbs, dirt, or other debris manage to enter the 3.5 mm audio jack and contaminate the contacts.

To resolve this issue, you can blow out the input or clean it with a toothpick or paperclip. It is important to proceed with caution to avoid damaging the contacts.

Another problem that may arise is when the headphones are disconnected from the audio jack, but the phone still indicates that a wired headset is connected. In such cases, the sound is not directed to the external speaker, but remains routed to the headphones. This can be rectified by re-inserting and removing the headphones or by rebooting the smartphone.

Adapter software conflict

Sound issues may sometimes be connected to the improper functioning of communication modules. Wi-fi and Bluetooth controllers can serve as the main culprits for audio loss, particularly when using a wireless headset.

In the event that the phone freezes, it may still transmit sound wirelessly, even if the headphones are powered off.

The resolution to this issue involves rebooting the wireless adapters via the "Settings" menu – "Wireless Networks" – "Connected Devices".

Connected Devices

If you’re experiencing sound issues, you can attempt to disable the adapters and then test for audio. If the sound returns, you can then proceed to restart the adapters.

Infection of the phone with viruses

The presence of viruses is often the cause of malfunctions in specific components of a smartphone. There are several ways for these viruses to infiltrate:

• They may be embedded in the firmware by the manufacturer;
• They can be installed through the download of applications from untrustworthy sources;
• Clicking on unreliable links may also lead to virus infection.

If you notice the sudden appearance of advertisements, settings being reset, unauthorized installation of applications, or loss of sound, it is crucial to install an antivirus program and remove any malicious files from your device.

It is important to note that if the virus has been integrated into the smartphone’s firmware, removing it may only be possible with root access.

Technical faults

Buying replacement components is the most effective way to address technical faults. In case you prefer to avoid contacting a professional and save some money, you have the option to order parts online. Additionally, you can follow a step-by-step video guide called "Problems and Solutions" that demonstrates the process of disassembling the mobile phone and replacing the necessary components.

Occasionally, a regular restart may not suffice in resolving software issues. In order to obtain access to the concealed audio configurations, root permissions must be obtained.

This can be accomplished by downloading specialized software on your own. However, this action runs the risk of transforming your phone into an inoperable device.

To circumvent this potential outcome, it is advisable to seek assistance from a cellular device repair service. A skilled technician will conduct a re-flashing procedure on your phone, thereby reinstating its proper functioning.

Speaker malfunction

When it comes to cleaning the sound membrane, there are several common causes of breakage that you should be aware of:

• One possible cause is the breakage of the coil winding. If this happens, the sound will completely disappear. This issue can only be resolved by taking your device to a service center, where they will replace the faulty part with a new one.
• Another cause of breakage is a short circuit or coil burnout. You can often diagnose this problem by listening for any unusual crackling noises while having a conversation. If you hear these sounds, it is a sign that your speaker is at risk of failing. It is recommended to address this issue as soon as possible to prevent the complete loss of sound. You have the option to replace the components yourself or seek assistance from a professional at a repair shop. If you have the necessary parts, the replacement process should only take around 15-20 minutes.
• Clogs in the sound diaphragm can lead to a deterioration in sound quality over time. Dust and dirt can accumulate on the diaphragm’s surface, causing a decrease in power even when the volume is set to maximum. Cleaning the diaphragm can be done using a gentle brush or cotton bud, but only if the speaker is easily accessible. If the speaker is hidden deeper, disassembly may require special tools and skills to avoid damaging the internal components and increasing the cost of repair.

If the speaker’s sound is not working, it is recommended to contact a professional technician. To confirm that the issue requires component replacement, test the cell phone in different modes and check the program settings.

If your smartphone’s sound is not working properly, it could be due to moisture getting under the case. The breakdown of the sound amplifier board is a common cause for this issue. Some possible reasons for the breakdown include the ingress of moisture under the phone’s body, mechanical impact causing deformation, or a factory defect. To fix the problem and restore the sound, it is recommended to seek assistance from specialists.

Loop breakage

The issue of breakage commonly occurs in devices where the physical buttons for volume control and player control are placed in a non-traditional location, such as the back cover. The requirements of designers often result in engineers having to position the cable in areas where it can easily become deformed, which in turn can impact its overall performance.

In order to resolve this problem, it is recommended to replace the damaged accessory with a new one. Attempting to repair the cable itself is both difficult and not cost-effective.

Determining if the malfunction lies in the cable is relatively simple – if you are unable to adjust the volume by pressing the physical keys, then the issue likely lies with the cable.

If you find yourself without sound, there is no need to immediately rush to a service center and incur the costs of diagnosis and repairs. It is possible that the problem is not critical and can be resolved at home.

To ensure tranquility, it is essential to carry out a process of relaxation, perform an analysis of the device with autonomy, and reinstate its normal operation. In cases where a malfunction of a technical nature is identified, a visit to a repair facility becomes inevitable.

Whilst carrying out autonomous procedures, it should be noted that any independent intervention will automatically void the factory warranty for the owner. If the mobile phone is under official service, it is strongly recommended that it is not opened by oneself, but instead handed over for professional repair, providing the warranty card as proof.