How to fix iPhone 8 with Grayed Out Speaker Button During Phone Call

From Repair Wiki
How to fix iPhone 8 with Grayed Out Speaker Button During Phone Call
Device IPhone 8 Plus, IPhone 8
Affects part(s) Main Logic Board
Needs equipment Screwdrivers, known good parts, spudger
Difficulty ◉◌◌◌ Easy
Type Part replacement


This article is a stub. You can help Repair Wiki grow by expanding it

Problem description

Here's how to fix an iPhone 8 that has a grayed out speaker icon during phone calls.

Please Note: Although the symptoms are similar to the iPhone 7/7Plus Audio IC failure, the solution is different.

Example image (Figure 1) -- No image yet. Help expand this page by uploading it!

Symptoms

  • When you make a call, the speaker button is grayed out & you cannot click it.
  • When trying to record a Voice Memo, it won't record.

Solution

Testing and Solution:

  • Unplug the Front Facing Camera, then test again
  • If the issue is solved, then plug in a new front-facing camera flex cable and try again
    • Please note, replacing the Front Camera flex on iPhone 8 & 8 Plus, will make you lose True Tone.

Explanation:

Usually this is caused by the ALS or proximity sensors getting some corrosion from liquid damage.

It's easier to just replace the part, but sometimes, you can clean off the corrosion with a toothbrush and isopropyl alcohol and get the flex working again.