Here’s an overview of what it does exactly and what to look out for:
Main functions
Voice capture: It’s used to make sure you’re heard during regular phone calls. It’s located at the bottom so it’s as close to your mouth as possible.
Noise reduction: Many modern phones have two of these holes (one on the bottom, the other on the top). They work together to filter out ambient noise – the bottom one captures your voice, and the top one analyzes the ambient noise, which then “resets” the system in software.
Common mistakes
It’s not a “Reset” button: Many people confuse this hole with the SIM card slot. Never push a SIM card ejector pin into it! You could tear the delicate waterproof membrane or damage the microphone module itself.
Dust blockage: If people complain that they hear you “like they’re dancing” or muffled when they call, this hole is usually clogged with dirt from your pocket.
How to clean it safely?
If you feel that the microphone is not working properly, avoid using metal objects. Instead, try:
A soft toothbrush (dry).
Compressed air (blow from an angle, not directly in, so as not to push the dirt deeper).
Anti-static modeling clay or a sticky eraser, which will draw the dirt out.
Have you ever accidentally tried to open it with a SIM card needle, or were you just intrigued by its presence?
