iPhone 18 Pro has repeated call crackling and speaker clarity concerns.
iPhone 18 Pro – Repeated Crackling Sound During Calls & Speaker Sound Clarity Concern
I purchased a brand-new iPhone 18 Pro on September 19, 2026, from an Apple Authorized Reseller. This is my first time purchasing an iPhone immediately after its launch.
Shortly after purchasing the device, I noticed a crackling/distorted sound while receiving phone calls through the earpiece.
I visited a Service Centre and explained the issue. The device was checked and iOS 27 was updated. After the update, the crackling sound disappeared, so I initially believed the issue had been resolved.
However, the same issue has started coming back randomly during phone calls.
What I have observed:
- The crackling sound does not occur on every call; it appears randomly.
- If I switch the iPhone off and on, the crackling usually disappears temporarily.
- After a few more calls, the issue can appear again.
- This has happened repeatedly even after the iOS update.
I have also started noticing a possible sound clarity issue from the speaker while listening to music. I am not sure whether this is related to the call crackling issue, but the overall speaker clarity does not seem as clear as I expected from a brand-new iPhone 18 Pro.
Since this is a newly purchased device, I am concerned that this may not simply be a temporary software issue. Restarting the phone only provides a temporary improvement, while the problem keeps returning.
I would therefore like to request Apple Support’s guidance on proper diagnosis and, if the issue is confirmed to be with the device, consideration for a replacement unit rather than repeated software troubleshooting.
Could Apple Support or other iPhone 18 Pro users please advise:
- Is this crackling sound during phone calls a known issue?
- Has anyone experienced the same issue repeatedly after updating to iOS 27?
- Could this be related to the earpiece/speaker hardware or an iOS audio issue?
- Is the speaker sound-clarity concern potentially related?
- If the issue continues despite troubleshooting, would a replacement device be possible under warranty?
I purchased the iPhone 18 Pro immediately after launch with the expectation of having a trouble-free new device. I would really appreciate a clear resolution from Apple, as having to restart a brand-new phone repeatedly just to temporarily eliminate the crackling sound is concerning.
iPhone 18 Pro, iOS 27
