Apple is Investigating Bluetooth Phone Call Audio Issues on the iPhone SE

Apple is reportedly investigating audio issues with Bluetooth phone calls made using the iPhone SE. Users have been reporting distortion, static, and inaudible phone calls since purchasing the new 4-inch smartphone.

MacRumors reader HickDead said:

I actually had to return my SE back to Verizon because my Bluetooth calls reception quality was terrible. Playing music or YouTube videos through the Bluetooth was excellent but when it came to phone calls, the sound was constantly cutting in and out and sounded "scratchy" and distorted.

Never had this issue with my previous 6S or my work-issued Android phone. Tried my SE in a different vehicle and got the same results. I've unpaired and repaired and I even restored my SE and set up up as a new device but nothing has worked.

The issue appears to affect devices on iOS 9.3 and iOS 9.3.1 across various carriers and countries. iOS 9.3.2 beta doesn't appear to solve the problem either. It's also unclear whether the problem is software or hardware based.

Several customers who contacted Apple for support have been informed that engineers are working on the issue.

Apple Support Communities user Ross_H_D writes:


I have been working with a high level support person who has assured me he is working directly with engineering. Apple has very much become engaged in this issue. They have had me do extensive testing of various conditions in order to document and troubleshoot. Further, there is an internal "Issue" board and tracking system for Apple support and this BT issue is on the top of the list. It was conveyed to me that this has become a very real issue internally and resources are now committed to its resolution.

Let us know if you've experienced a similar issue with your iPhone SE in the comments and follow iClarified on Twitter, Facebook, or RSS for updates.

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