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iPhone SE Bluetooth issues

I have a new iPhone SE and have so far paired it to a 2014 BMW 328i and a 2011 Kia Optima and a 2015 Kia Santa Fe. In all cases, I have terrible quality bluetooth call reception... the audio while on a phone call is extremely scratchy and distorted.


If I pair an iPhone 6S to each of these vehicles (same iOS version - 9.3.1), I do NOT experience these issues and calls are clear.


When I use the iPhone SE to make phone calls outside of Bluetooth, I have no issues and calls are clear.


This bluetooth issue on my iPhone SE does NOT impact Bluetooth music streaming. Only sounds scratchy / distorted with phone calls.


Apple, so far, is blaming the vehicle manufacturers despite there being multiple vehicle models and brands involved.


BMW and Kia state this must be an Apple problem.


Apple Genius bar is absolutely no help -- they state they can't report "software issues" to Apple and are only able to replace bad iPhones.


I'm at a complete loss as to how to get this to Apple's attention so they can fix the issue.


For now, I don't know what to do. All I know is that Bluetooth audio is very important to me in California since it is illegal to use your phone except in a hands free manner.


Anyone know how we can get this information to someone at Apple that can actually do something about it?


Robert

Posted on Apr 4, 2016 5:27 PM

Reply
934 replies

May 11, 2016 6:38 AM in response to Steve Waite

2012 Chevrolet Impala. Much improved after installing the beta. However, Plantronics M1100 has popping sounds after working perfectly for years with my LG, Samsung and BlackBerry phones.


Also, just found that after downloading pictures from PC that you can't delete them from the phone. What kind of Mickey Mouse software is this?


I'm seriously thinking of going back to my old BB10 phone. No apps but it works beautifully and that's what really matters.


Per the previous poster, after 6 weeks, no statement, no official fix. Hey Apple, what the heck is wrong with you guys? Is this all you got, really?


Pathetic.

May 11, 2016 6:39 AM in response to Steve Waite

I was excited by the prospect of the SE, but returned it because of the bluetooth issues and got a 6s. I was not going to pay $500 for a device and then be a free beta tester for Apple in order to get the device to work. I was waiting to repurchase the SE (Verizon agreed to do the future exchange under the worry-free guarantee) when the issue was repaired. But honestly (and thanks to Apple's extended silence on the issue) I've gotten used to the 6s size, and actually enjoy the 3D touch and I use the barometer with an exercise app. So I'm sticking with the 6s. I wish all you guys luck, but basically I consider the SE a failed experiment.

May 11, 2016 7:12 AM in response to skierrob2

Just had a thought concerning these BT problems; My 64GB SE, is the TMobile USA version. It seems to me that the majority of the problems are stemming from Verizon phones; maybe differences in hardware/software, are creating these problems. As earlier stated, my SE works flawlessly, with my 2015 Acura SH-AWD/TLX/Tech, except that I can't respond;(send), texts through the car; works flawlessly, on the phone; Acura is clueless; THOUGHTS?

May 11, 2016 7:26 AM in response to CPRDFR

I had an iPhone SE from T-Mobile. Same problem and it was returned.


Tried another from AT&T. Same problem. Loaded the beta but still problems with my plantronics M1100.


After all of this nonsense I should've just gotten a 6s and be done with it. The SE is a joke.


Apple probably kicks these things out for less than $100 per unit. They don't give a crap.

May 11, 2016 7:52 AM in response to skierrob2

Iphone SE 64GB on AT&T network. The public beta 4 has worked for me. In fact, I dare say the audio quality is outstanding! Possibly better than with my previous iPhone 6. Or does it just seem that way because I have been living with unusable bluetooth phone conversations for the last three weeks?


If you are reluctant to go the beta route I would hope Apple will be coming out with a full production release soon.


2014 Infiniti Q50 and 2012 Mercedes SLK.

May 11, 2016 10:01 AM in response to mreg376

It could be my headset...but it doesn't have issues with other phones. I will try another headset and see if it will have different results. Also what I have noticed is that quality of calls vary. Sometimes will have practically clear and pleasant call quality, other times may hear some popping or another interference(in the same environment and same devices) At least the major issue is fixed.

iPhone SE Bluetooth issues

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