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How to Use iPhone Mic Mode for Clear, Noise-Free Calls

How to Use iPhone Mic Mode for Clear, Noise-Free Calls

For years, iPhone users have relied on voice isolation to block out background noise during calls, a handy feature for noisy environments or busy homes. However, with the iOS 18 update, things have changed a bit.

Here’s a question from Debbie from Half Moon Bay that sums up the experience of many users: “Since I updated Apple software to iOS 18.0.1, I can no longer suppress background noise when I’m on the phone Previously this was in Control Center. Did you understand how to do this?

This comes from Debbie, a fan of the voice isolation feature that allowed her to chat on the phone with her dog barking in the background without her callers hearing the noise.

Good news, Debbie. With iOS 18, Apple introduced a smart new feature called Auto Mic Mode, which adapts to your environment to automatically improve call quality. Voice isolation is still available, but it’s now part of a smarter hands-free experience.

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How to Use iPhone Mic Mode for Clear, Noise-Free Calls

A woman speaks on her iPhone speaker (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Presentation of automatic microphone mode

Auto Mic Mode builds on the voice isolation and wide spectrum features Apple introduced in iOS 15. Now the mode can intelligently detect your surroundings and select the best microphone setting for clearer, more natural communication.

How to Use iPhone Mic Mode for Clear, Noise-Free Calls

Automatic microphone mode on iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Who benefits from automatic micro mode?

This feature is not limited to newer iPhones. If your device supports iOS 18, you can enjoy the flexibility of auto mic mode from iPhone XR to the latest models. Not sure if you’re using the latest version of iOS? Carefree. Here are some quick steps to update your iPhone:

  • Open Settings
  • Faucet General
  • Select Software update
  • If available, tap Update now and start downloading and installing iOS 18.1
How to Use iPhone Mic Mode for Clear, Noise-Free Calls

Steps to Update iPhone Software (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

This is what it looks like in action

In a noisy place? If you’re on a business call in a busy coffee shop, auto mic mode will default to voice isolation, blocking out background noise so the other person only hears your voice.

On speakerphone for a group chat? Switch to speakerphone for a group chat and auto mic mode can switch to standard mode, creating a more open, natural sound perfect for group conversations.

With automatic mic mode, you no longer need to access settings for most calls; your iPhone now makes these decisions for you. But don’t worry, Debbie, voice isolation is still available for manual selection if you prefer.

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How to Manually Enable Voice Isolation on iOS 18

For those who want to choose voice isolation for themselves, here’s how to access it in iOS 18.0.1.

1) During a call: Swipe from the upper right corner of your screen to open Control Center.

2) Enter microphone mode: Tap the app controls for your current call next to the app name (like Phone or FaceTime).

3) Select Voice Isolation: Under Audio & Video, you’ll see options like Automatic, Standard, Voice Isolation, and Wide Spectrum. Faucet Voice isolation to reduce background noise. Here is a breakdown of these options:

  • Automatic: Automatically uses the microphone mode that best suits your call type
  • Standard: Uses standard voice processing
  • Voice isolation: Prioritizes your voice and blocks ambient noise
  • Broad spectrum: Leaves ambient noise unfiltered
How to Use iPhone Mic Mode for Clear, Noise-Free Calls

Voice isolation on iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Your selection will only affect the app you use to make the call. Microphone modes will remain active for this app until you choose another one.

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Kurt’s Key Takeaways

With the switch to micro auto mode, Apple keeps pace with our busy mobile lives. From noisy environments to silent settings, your iPhone now automatically guarantees crystal clear calls. And for users like Debbie, who often multitask during calls, this is a game changer. Debbie, try! Whether you’re doing household chores or answering a call on a crowded street, your iPhone will adapt so you can focus on the conversation.

What features would you like to see added in future iOS updates to further improve your calling experience? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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