How to Change the Audio Input/Output On Your Phone

Suggested By: Jordan Palacios

Android

Changing the audio input or output on an Android phone depends on your device's settings and connected peripherals. Here’s how you can do it:

Change Audio Output Via Quick Settings:

• Swipe down from the top of the screen to open the Quick Settings panel.

• Tap on the Audio Output or Media Output icon (usually looks like a speaker or headphones icon).

• Select the desired audio output (e.g., Phone Speaker, Bluetooth headphones, or other connected devices).

Change Audio Output Via Bluetooth Settings:

• Go to Settings > Connected Devices > Bluetooth.

• Make sure your Bluetooth device is connected.

• Tap the device name and ensure the Media Audio option is enabled.

Change Audio Output While Playing Media:

• When media is playing, tap the Output or Cast icon in the media app (often in the media controls or notification bar).

• Choose your desired output device.

Change Audio Input During Calls or Recording:

• While on a call or recording, most apps automatically select the input source (e.g., built-in mic, Bluetooth headset, or external microphone).

• If you want to change it manually:
  During calls: Look for the Bluetooth/Headset/Speaker toggle on the call screen.
  In a recording app: Check the app's settings for an input selection option.

Change Audio Input Using Third-Party Apps:

• Some apps like audio recording tools or camera apps allow you to manually select the audio input (e.g., internal mic or external mic).

Change Audio Input in System-Wide Settings:

• Plugging in an external microphone (via USB-C, 3.5mm jack, or Bluetooth) will usually override the default input.

• Go to Settings > Sound to verify or manage preferences, though detailed input control might need a specialized app.

iPhone

Changing the audio input or output on an iPhone is straightforward. Here’s how you can manage both:

Change Audio Output Using Control Center:

• Swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen (on iPhones with Face ID) or swipe up from the bottom (on iPhones with a Home button) to open Control Center.

• Tap the Audio Output or AirPlay icon (it looks like a triangle with circles or a speaker).

• Select your desired audio output, such as iPhone, Speaker, AirPods, or a connected Bluetooth device.

Change Audio Output While Playing Media:

• When media (like music or a video) is playing, tap the AirPlay or Output icon in the media player controls.

• Choose your preferred output device.

• Bluetooth Devices:

  • Go to Settings > Bluetooth.

  • Ensure your Bluetooth device is connected.

  • Check that the device supports the desired audio output (Media Audio, Call Audio, etc.).

Change Audio Input For Calls:

• During a call, tap the Audio button on the call screen.

• Select the desired input/output device, such as iPhone, Speaker, or a connected headset.

Change Audio Input For Recordings:

• Plug in an external microphone (via Lightning port, Bluetooth, or a compatible adapter). The iPhone usually switches to the external mic automatically.

• Apps like Voice Memos or video recording apps often display the active input device, and some allow manual selection in their settings.

Change Audio Input For System-wide Input Management:

• iOS doesn’t have a system-wide menu to select input devices, but it automatically prioritizes connected microphones over the internal mic.

• Some third-party apps allow manual input selection.