Ring Audio Not Working? A Guide to Restoring Sound
The two-way talk feature is one of the most important aspects of your Ring Doorbell or Security Camera. If you can't hear visitors or they can't hear you, you lose a critical layer of security and convenience. Audio problems can stem from your phone's settings, the Ring app, your Wi-Fi connection, or the Ring device itself.
This troubleshooting guide will help you systematically identify and fix the cause of your Ring audio issues, so you can start communicating clearly again.
## 1. Check Your Smartphone's Settings
Often, the problem isn't with the Ring device at all, but with the settings on the phone or tablet you're using to access it.
- Check App Permissions: This is the most common culprit. The Ring app needs your permission to access your phone's microphone.
- On iOS (iPhone/iPad): Go to Settings > Privacy > Microphone. Make sure the toggle next to the Ring app is green.
- On Android: Go to Settings > Apps > Ring > Permissions. Ensure that "Microphone" is allowed.
- Check Volume and Silent Mode: Make sure your phone's media volume is turned up. Also, ensure your phone is not in "Silent" or "Do Not Disturb" mode, as this can prevent you from hearing the audio from the Ring device.
- Bluetooth Connections: If your phone is connected to a Bluetooth device (like headphones, a speaker, or your car), the audio might be routing there instead of your phone's speaker. Temporarily disable Bluetooth on your phone and try again.
## 2. Verify Settings Within the Ring App
There are a couple of places within the Ring app itself where audio can be controlled.
- Check the Mute Icons: When you are in a Live View, you will see microphone and speaker icons. Make sure neither of these is crossed out. Tap them to mute or unmute the audio from the camera and the audio from your phone to the camera.
- Check Privacy Settings: In the Ring app, go to the Device Dashboard > Settings > Privacy Settings. Ensure that "Audio Recording" is enabled. If this is turned off, the device will not record or stream any sound.
## 3. Troubleshoot Your Network Connection
A poor or unstable Wi-Fi connection can cause audio to be choppy, delayed, or completely absent, even if the video looks okay.
- Check Your Signal Strength: In the Ring app, go to the device's page and tap on "Device Health". Look for the Signal Strength (RSSI). If the value is poor (e.g., -65 to -85), your connection is weak, which is likely affecting the audio quality. You may need to move your router closer to your Ring device or use a Wi-Fi extender like the Ring Chime Pro.
- Restart Your Router: Unplug your internet router for 60 seconds and then plug it back in. This simple reboot can often resolve temporary network glitches that interfere with the audio stream.
## 4. Reboot Your Ring Device
If the issue persists, try rebooting the Ring device itself. This can clear any temporary firmware bugs that might be causing the audio problem.
- For Battery-Powered Devices: Simply remove the battery for about 10-15 seconds and then reinsert it.
- For Hardwired Devices: You will need to turn off the power at the circuit breaker for 30 seconds and then turn it back on. For devices with an internal battery like the Video Doorbell, you may need to perform a hard reset by holding down the setup button for 20 seconds.
By methodically checking your phone, the app, your network, and the device itself, you can resolve most audio-related problems and restore the full functionality of your Ring system.