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Can hear yourself but not others on a call

When your own audio works but you can't hear other participants, the app's output device setting or system volume for that app is almost always the cause, not your speakers overall. Checking the call app's audio output settings resolves it quickly.

Difficulty
Easy
Time
5–10 minutes
DIY cost
$0

Symptoms

  • Notification sounds and other audio work fine
  • You can be heard but hear nothing back from others
  • Volume slider for the call app appears muted or low
  • Switching apps briefly fixes it, then it recurs

Likely causes

  • CommonWrong audio output device selected in the call appThe app can default to a different speaker or headset than you expect.
  • CommonApp volume muted in the system volume mixerIndividual app volume can be silenced separately from the system volume.
  • PossibleOther participants are muted on their endSometimes the issue isn't your device at all.
  • PossibleBluetooth headset connected but not selected as the call's audio deviceBluetooth devices can connect for media but not automatically become the call's default.

What to do

  1. Check the meeting app's own audio settings and confirm the correct speaker/output device is selected.
  2. Open your system's volume mixer and check the call app isn't muted individually.
  3. Ask another participant to confirm they aren't muted.
  4. If using Bluetooth, disconnect and reconnect the headset, then reselect it as the output device in the app.
  5. Restart the call app.
  6. Test system sound with something else, like a video, to confirm speakers work outside the call.

Safety

Generally low risk

Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.

Related guides

Operator provides AI-generated troubleshooting information. It can be wrong. For safety-critical, electrical, gas, structural, medical, automotive safety, or other high-risk problems, consult a qualified professional.