Troubleshooting speaker and sound issues on a Samsung Galaxy device
There are several ways to troubleshoot sound issues if the speakers on your Samsung Galaxy device do not seem to be working properly. The issue could be caused by a software problem, physical damage or blockages, external device connections, or device settings. For example, if your phone is not playing sound, it could be connected to an external device that is redirecting the audio.
1. Check your device settings
The settings on your Samsung Galaxy device could be affecting the sound or quality. Here are some settings to check:
- Do not disturb: Mutes calls, notifications, and alerts on your phone. If you cannot hear the ringtone or notification alerts, check to see if this setting is enabled by going to Settings > Notifications > Do not disturb.
- Separate app sound: Plays media sound from apps you select on a separate audio device. To check or turn off this setting, go to Settings > Sounds and vibration > Separate app sound.
- Left/right sound balance: Changes the left and right sound levels. If you can hear sound on only one side or it is muffled, check the settings by going to Settings > Accessibility > Hearing enhancements > Left/right sound balance.
- Mute all sounds: Turns off all sounds on your phone, including calls, alerts, and media. To see if this setting is enabled go to Settings > Accessibility > Hearing enhancements > Mute all sounds.
Note: The location of each of these settings may differ depending on the device model, region, and mobile carrier.
2. Check for external devices
- Check for items that are plugged into the earphone jack or attached to your device, such as selfie sticks, protective films, third-party cases, etc.
- Disable Bluetooth by swiping down from the top of the screen to open the Quick panel > Tap the Bluetooth icon.
- Make sure the air vent grooves are not covered by third-party cases, screen protectors, etc.
3. Restart your device
- Method 1: Press and hold the Volume down and Power buttons at the same time until the power menu appears > Tap the Power off.
- Method 2: Use two fingers to swipe down from the top of the screen to open the Quick panel > Tap the Power off icon > Tap Power off.
- Wait 30 seconds before turning your device back on.
Note: If you use the Fingerprint security feature, the phone will require the backup password to unlock after restarting.
4. Dry your device if it has gotten wet
Water in the speakers can cause speaker and sound issues.
- If your device gets wet, dry it immediately with a clean, soft cloth and try to remove as much water as possible. Places to pay careful attention to include:
- Earpiece (at the top front of the device)
- Microphones (at the top and bottom of the device)
- Speaker (at the bottom of the device)
- USB port
- Avoid exposing your device to salt water or ionized water. If your device has been submerged in salt water, rinse it with fresh water and dry it thoroughly with a clean, soft cloth.
- Avoid using heat to dry your device.
5. Test the speakers
- Use the volume buttons to increase the volume while playing audio on your device. If the sound quality is normal, then your speakers are working properly, and the problem may be caused by an external device.
Updating the software on your device may resolve issues related to the speakers or sound quality.
1. Update your device manually
- Go to Settings > Tap Software update > Tap Download and install.
- Follow the onscreen instructions to install the update.
Note: Before proceeding with the software update, make sure your device is connected to the internet and has at least 50% battery.
2. Check device storage space
- If you have trouble installing the update, ensure you have enough space on your device. You can manage your device storage by going to Device Care > Storage.
- You can also back up your data using Smart Switch or your Samsung or Google account.
3. Check your device after the update
- Use your device to play audio to see if the issue has been resolved.
Some downloaded apps can cause your device to freeze or slow down. They can also affect the camera, sound, and network connectivity. Restarting your device in Safe mode disables all downloaded apps and runs only the original software that came with your device. This helps with determining if the issue is related to an app or a problem with the device. If the speaker or sound issue does not appear in Safe mode, then it is likely that a downloaded application is causing the problem and should be uninstalled.
Note: If your device has security features set up, you will need to enter the passcode or pattern when it restarts.
1. Restart your device in Safe mode
- Method 1: Press and hold the Volume down and Power buttons at the same time until the power menu appears > Long press the Power off button > Tap Safe mode.
- Method 2: Use two fingers to swipe down from the top of the screen to open the Quick panel > Tap the Power off icon > Long press the Power off button > Tap Safe mode.
2. Check to see if the speaker or sound issue is still present
- Use your device to play audio to see if the issue has been resolved.
- If your device is working properly, then it is likely that a downloaded application is causing the problem and should be uninstalled. Proceed to step 3.
- If you are still having issues, the downloaded app may not be the cause of the problem, and you may need to reset your device.
3. Delete recently installed applications
A recently downloaded application may be causing the problem.
- Delete recently installed applications one at a time.
- Restart your phone after each application is uninstalled to see if the speaker or sound issue has been resolved.
4. Restart your device normally
Follow these steps to exit Safe mode and restart your device normally:
- Method 1: Press and hold the Volume down and Power buttons at the same time until the power menu appears > Tap the Power icon > Tap Power off > Press the Power button to power on your device.
- Method 2: Use two fingers to swipe down from the top of the screen to open the Quick panel > Tap the Power icon > Tap Power off > Press and hold the Power button to power on your device.
5. Check your device after it restarts
- Use your device to play audio to see if the issue has been resolved.
Performing a factory reset will restore your device to its factory settings and permanently delete all personal data and configurations. To avoid losing personal content, be sure to back up your device before proceeding with a factory reset.
Note: It is recommended that your device be connected to a charger when performing the factory reset, as the process may take up to an hour to complete.
1. Reset all settings by going to Settings > General Management > Reset > Reset all settings.
* You may be prompted to enter your Samsung account or lock screen password to proceed with the reset process.
2. Once you have reset your device, complete the initial set up and then use your device to play audio to see if the issue has been resolved.
* If none of the suggestions above resolve your issue, you can book a repair or visit your closest Samsung Service Centre for further assistance.
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