iPhone 17 top earpiece not working during video playback

i have an iphone 17 and the top earpiece that is on the screen doesnt work when I am watching videos, is this a fault or is this speaker is used for calls?

iPhone 17, iOS 26

Posted on Nov 27, 2025 3:54 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Nov 28, 2025 6:00 AM

Your iPhone 17 is NOT defective.

The top earpiece speaker is mainly for calls and is not always used during video playback. Apple only enables stereo audio when volume, app type, and audio format allow it. Many apps use mono playback, so the top speaker remains silent. If your earpiece works during calls, your hardware is perfect.

2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Nov 28, 2025 6:00 AM in response to alexandros61

Your iPhone 17 is NOT defective.

The top earpiece speaker is mainly for calls and is not always used during video playback. Apple only enables stereo audio when volume, app type, and audio format allow it. Many apps use mono playback, so the top speaker remains silent. If your earpiece works during calls, your hardware is perfect.

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iPhone 17 top earpiece not working during video playback

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