
Many Reddit users with the iPhone SE (especially the 2nd and 3rd generation models) have been puzzled by the left speaker not producing any sound. Common threads reveal that this is actually a point of confusion—because the iPhone SE, like other iPhones, only has one working speaker (on the right), while the left grill is just a microphone. Some users thought their device was faulty or damaged, only to find this was intentional by Apple’s design.
However, in rare cases where actual audio imbalance occurs, it could be due to dust blocking the speaker, audio balance settings, or hardware issues. In this article, we’ll clear up the confusion, explain what’s normal, and help troubleshoot when your iPhone SE does have a speaker issue..
What do I do if my iPhone SE’s left speaker is not working?
Clarification: I would like to inform you that those who are using the iPhone, our old iPhone, contains one 3.5mm jack port, and on the right side of the port, there is a speaker, and on the left side, there is a microphone speaker grill. See the image below.

The right-side speaker works when you play songs, watch videos, and perform other multimedia activities. On the left side, there is a microphone that only works when you call someone or record your voice. In short, the microphone is an input speaker, and the right speaker is an output speaker.
- The left speaker is situated at the bottom left side.
- Right Speaker is located on the Top side.
Check the Audio Balance settings:
- Open the Settings App
- Click on Accessibility
- Scroll to Audio & Visual
- Set Balance (Keep on center position).
The new iPhone also has the same speaker design. The left design is for a Microphone, not a Speaker.
This is how people get confused and tense about their iPhone SE’s left speaker not working. There is no speaker on the left side of the device.
Hence, the conclusion is that there is no issue with your iPhone SE left speaker; it is designed uniquely for better performance.
Still, if you have any concerns about the iPhone SE, please write about your issue in the comments. We will respond and resolve your problem as soon as possible.
