User profile for user: bluiewest1
bluiewest1 Author
User level: Level 1
5 points

iPhone 13 Pro Max cell call on speaker is garbled

Girlfriend has 13 Pro Max that was purchased new from Apple Store in ATL in March 2022. When she tries to have a conversation using the hands-free speaker, her words are clipped, sometimes three or four words are dropped, sound is distorted and I often can't understand what she is saying. Others have had same problem when calling her on her iPhone.


Wifi calling is turned off as is 5G service.


She has AT&T and their 5G service in this area is spotty. Also, I'm inclined to think that they don't have as many 4G towers as they have in the past. Could it be a cell tower coverage issue?

iPhone 13 Pro Max

Posted on Jul 18, 2022 11:26 AM

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User profile for user: jeromyk
jeromyk
User level: Level 4
1,998 points

Posted on Jul 18, 2022 12:44 PM

Hello bluiewest1,


You mentioned the distortion happens when she is using the hands-free speaker. Does it not happen if she speaks directly into the phone? Out of curiosity (and to rule out Microphone/Speaker issue) what happens when you record a Voice Memo?


If the Voice Memo records and plays correctly, I would try the following:


I know you mentioned 5G was disabled, but I would check to see if Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > 5G Auto is enabled. Follow the instructions here to Reset Network Settings: If you see No Service or Searching on your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support


If you still have issues after that, I would make an appointment to visit at Apple store/Authorized Service Provider. You can technically run some of the same tests with a technician over the phone (call: 800-APL-CARE) but in-store they can run a deeper frequency test. These can identify issues such as environment (as you mentioned cellular towers) or issues with being able to read the SIM card. It would at least give you an avenue to pursue to resolve this.


Click here to look at service options: iPhone - Official Apple Support

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User profile for user: jeromyk
jeromyk
User level: Level 4
1,998 points

Jul 18, 2022 12:44 PM in response to bluiewest1

Hello bluiewest1,


You mentioned the distortion happens when she is using the hands-free speaker. Does it not happen if she speaks directly into the phone? Out of curiosity (and to rule out Microphone/Speaker issue) what happens when you record a Voice Memo?


If the Voice Memo records and plays correctly, I would try the following:


I know you mentioned 5G was disabled, but I would check to see if Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > 5G Auto is enabled. Follow the instructions here to Reset Network Settings: If you see No Service or Searching on your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support


If you still have issues after that, I would make an appointment to visit at Apple store/Authorized Service Provider. You can technically run some of the same tests with a technician over the phone (call: 800-APL-CARE) but in-store they can run a deeper frequency test. These can identify issues such as environment (as you mentioned cellular towers) or issues with being able to read the SIM card. It would at least give you an avenue to pursue to resolve this.


Click here to look at service options: iPhone - Official Apple Support

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iPhone 13 Pro Max cell call on speaker is garbled

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