The iPhone microphone is responsible for voice calls, audio recordings and voice assistance, among others. It has improved over time with iPhone generations.
The first iPhone models, including the original version, were fitted with basic but workable microphones. It was merely used for voice memos and phone calls as it lacked noise cancellation features and high-fidelity sound. Previous models had a bottom or rear-facing microphone port. Subsequent ones included an additional front-facing microphone at the top of the device to improve noise reduction.
Significant advancements in the microphone for iphone began with the iPhone 4 . The model introduced a second, front-facing microphone, allowing for noise cancellation during calls for the first time. Using two microphones and advanced software algorithms, ambient background noises could be reduced for call recipients. As a result, call quality was greatly improved. Besides that, the iPhone 4 was the first to have a front camera, making video calls possible.
There was released the water resistance design in its iPhone 7, requiring repositioning microphone ports in less submerged areas such as the power button side or top edge corners of iPhones where they are now found to be located. Waterproofing caused some changes in mic location without compromising their quality. Subsequent models were rated as more water-resistant with each upgrade.
The iPhone 8 was the first to introduce beamforming. It makes the mic focus more on the user’s voice in a directional manner thereby enhancing call quality and voice assistant interaction. The three-microphone iPhone X followed, which had excellent noise cancellation.
Another leap in audio recording quality was made by the iPhone 11.With a three-microphone system which had a high dynamic range microphone with ultra-low distortion, the product was complete. Professional level audio recording was achieved by a combination of mic array and Apple’s sophisticated image processor chip. The front-facing “selfie” camera also has an improved microphone.
The iPhone 12 series launched has the most developed microphone system of any other iPhone till now.Microphones with advanced noise cancellation technology and beamforming achieve obvious telephone calls and voice recognition capabilities. One more mic was employed for wind noise reduction because it countered wind interference better than others.
The iPhone is looking at the future with a high chance that the iPhone will have improved microphone technology in its subsequent models. Voice control in noisy environments, wind noise reduction, beamforming to support precise directional audio, and removing unwanted ambient sounds on calls could be some of the areas of focus.
End
In a decade, this technology will look funny, just like the first iPhone microphone; it will seem primitive compared to what an iPhone can hear. The iPhone mic has higher call clarity and audio quality standards than other smartphones.
