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Why Can't I Use My RØDE USB Microphone for Phone Calls on iPhone?

  • Updated

Apple has implemented restrictions within iOS that prevent USB microphones from being used with telephony-based applications, including standard cellular phone calls and certain communication apps.

These restrictions are part of the iOS operating system and only allow phone calls to use either the device's built-in microphone or a supported Bluetooth headset.

As a result, RØDE USB microphones connected using an SC15, SC19, SC21, or any USB-C data cable on newer iPhone models, cannot be used for phone calls.

Please note: This is an Apple iOS limitation and is not caused by the microphone or cable being used.

Which Apps Are Affected?

Any application that relies on Apple's telephony framework will be unable to use a USB microphone.

Examples include:

  • Phone calls
  • FaceTime
  • Microsoft Skype
  • Other apps that use Apple's telephony protocols

Which Apps Can Use a RØDE USB Microphone?

USB microphones work normally with apps that do not use Apple's telephony framework.

Examples include:

  • Camera
  • Voice Memos
  • GarageBand
  • Instagram Live
  • Facebook Live
  • Most third-party audio and video recording apps

For the best compatibility, we recommend using an MFi-certified cable such as the SC15, SC19, or SC21.

Related article:
Why is an MFi-certified USB cable needed to connect my microphone to an iPhone? 

Workaround: Using the NTH-100M for Phone Calls

While USB microphones cannot be used for phone calls on iPhone, the NTH-100M can be used as a wired headset because it uses an analogue TRRS connection rather than USB.

The NTH-100M combines the NTH-100 headphones with the NTH-Mic, providing both headphone audio and microphone input during phone calls.

How to Connect the NTH-100M

  1. Connect and lock the supplied TRRS cable to the left earcup.
  2. Install and lock the NTH-Mic into the right earcup.
  3. Connect the 3.5 mm TRRS plug to an official Apple Lightning or USB-C to 3.5 mm Headphone Jack Adapter.
  4. Connect the Apple adapter to your iPhone.
  5. The iPhone will automatically detect the headset and microphone.

Important Notes

  • Use an adapter that supports TRRS headset connections.
  • TRS-only adapters will output headphone audio but will not detect the microphone.
  • Official Apple adapters are recommended for maximum compatibility.
  • If your iPhone does not automatically route audio to the headset, select it manually from the call's audio options.
Please note: Many third-party adapters only support stereo audio output (TRS). To ensure the microphone functions correctly, use an official Apple adapter or a verified TRRS-compatible adapter.

Applies To

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