Apps & performance

App won't play audio or sound

This is usually a volume or mute setting issue, a Bluetooth device still connected, or the app's own audio permission being disabled.

Difficulty
Easy
Time
5–10 minutes

Symptoms

  • No sound plays even at full volume
  • Sound works in other apps but not this one
  • Audio plays through the wrong output like a paired Bluetooth device
  • Video plays but with no sound

Likely causes

  • CommonPhone muted, on silent, or volume turned downIt's easy to miss a silent switch or low media volume separate from ringer volume.
  • CommonAudio routed to a connected Bluetooth deviceSound may be playing through headphones or a speaker you're not near.
  • PossibleApp-specific mute or audio settingSome apps have their own internal mute toggle separate from phone volume.
  • PossibleMissing microphone/media permission for the appSome apps require explicit permission to play or process audio.
  • PossibleOutdated app version with an audio bugPlayback bugs are commonly fixed in updates.

What to do

  1. Check the phone isn't on silent mode and media volume is turned up (not just ringer volume).
  2. Check Bluetooth settings and disconnect any paired headphones or speakers you're not using.
  3. Check the app's own volume or mute control inside its interface.
  4. Confirm the app has needed audio-related permissions in phone settings.
  5. Restart the app and then the phone if the issue continues.
  6. Update the app to its latest version.
  7. Test another app's audio to confirm the issue is app-specific, not a phone speaker problem.

When to call a pro

If no app plays sound and the speaker itself seems silent, a repair shop should check for a hardware speaker fault.

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.