My iPhone XS Max has very low volume for phone calls. When I dial I can’t the phone ringing and when answered can’t hear unless I turn on speaker. Ringer is fine and volume button is working

If you can't hear a person on a call or voicemail or if the sound isn't clear on your iPhone - Apple Support

If you can't hear a person on a call or voicemail or if the sound isn't clear on your iPhone

If you can't hear a person's voice clearly, hear crackling, static, or have issues with sound quality while you're on a call or listening to voicemail on your iPhone, learn what to do.

iPhone Volume and Receiver

Turn up the volume

While you're on a call, adjust the volume with the volume buttons. Make sure that you can see the volume indicator on the screen when you press the volume buttons.

Check the connections

If your iPhone is connected to a headset, you won't be able to hear through the iPhone receiver or using speakerphone. Follow these steps, testing after each.

1. Make sure that you don't have anything plugged into the headphone jack or the dock connector.
2. Go to Settings > Bluetooth and turn off Bluetooth.

Clear the receiver

The iPhone receiver won't work properly if it's blocked or dirty.

Follow these steps, testing after each:

• Make sure nothing is blocking the receiver, such as a case or screen protector.
  If you have a new iPhone, remove the plastic film on the front and back of the device.
• Check the receiver opening to see if it's blocked or dirty. If necessary, clean the receiver opening with a small, soft-bristled brush. Make sure that the brush is clean and dry.
• While you're on a call, turn on speakerphone. If you still can't hear, then your network or reception could be the issue. Try calling again later or from a different location.

Restart and update

1. Restart your iPhone and test again.
2. If there's still no sound or poor sound quality, update your iPhone to the latest version of iOS.

Get more help

If you tried these steps and there's still no sound or poor sound quality from your iPhone, contact Apple Support.

Learn what to do if your microphone isn’t working or people can’t hear you while you’re on a call.

i can barley hear people when talking on my phone. It’s like the volume is very low , even though the volume is all the way up. I have to press speaker phone in order to communicate with others.

If you have a brand new iPhone, be sure to fully remove the clear plastic sheet intended to protect the touchscreen during shipping. I first discovered it on the iPhone SE. With the plastic still in place, very little sound escapes from the top speaker nearest the ear, regardless of volume setting. Once the plastic was removed, normal earpiece volume was achieved.