1. Rule out audio routing and settings
A phone can quietly reconnect to earbuds, a car, a hearing device or another Bluetooth speaker. Turn Bluetooth off completely and disconnect wired accessories. Raise volume while the affected audio is playing, because call volume and media volume can be separate.
Try a built-in ringtone, a saved video and a call. If only one app is muffled, check that app and its equaliser or voice settings. If every source is affected, continue to the physical checks.
2. Remove anything blocking the openings
Cases, adhesive skins and screen protectors can cover or redirect sound. Remove them temporarily. Inspect the bottom loudspeaker and the top receiver under bright light. A blocked top receiver explains quiet calls while media remains clear; a blocked bottom grille more often affects music and speakerphone.
For dry visible debris, power the phone off and use a clean, dry, soft-bristled brush with light strokes across the surface. Never insert a pin or spray compressed air into the opening.
3. Consider moisture and the timing of the problem
If the change followed rain, a splash or a humid environment, water near the grille may be damping sound. Wipe the phone, keep openings downward and allow airflow. A moderate water-eject cycle may help droplets near the loudspeaker, but drying time remains important.
Salt water, drinks and chemicals leave residue and deserve manufacturer-specific cleaning or professional inspection. Stop if the phone overheats, restarts, shows a charging warning or has other new faults.
4. Look for hardware clues
Strong buzzing at low volume, sound that changes when the frame is pressed, complete silence from one speaker or a problem that began after a drop may indicate physical damage. Software updates and restarts can help temporary issues, but tones and brushing cannot repair a loose connection or torn component.
A quick decision guide
Use Water Eject for a recent clean-water splash. Use Speaker Cleaner for a light moisture or uncertain surface issue. Use Call Speaker Cleaner when only calls are quiet. Use the manual cleaning guide for visible dry debris. Seek service when distortion is severe, the phone has multiple faults or the problem persists after drying and safe cleaning.