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Testing a cell phone's microphone is an effective method for detecting audio system problems, whether you are buying a new or used device. The basic procedure involves using the native voice recording application available on both Android and iPhones to check sound capture capability.

Causes of audio failures

Audio input difficulties can be caused by dirt accumulation on protective grilles, privacy restrictions imposed by the operating system, or momentary software glitches. Additionally, physical damage resulting from drops can also impair the function of this component.

Hardware repair and maintenance

When the problem lies with the hardware, replacing the part is an option. However, in contemporary smartphones, the microphone is often soldered to an auxiliary board, which requires intervention from specialized technicians for repair.

Step-by-step guide for testing

To perform the test, you must first open the device's native Recording or Voice Notes application. You need to authorize microphone access to the application if prompted. Next, start a recording by pressing the red button at the bottom of the screen. A useful tip is to record a message in a normal tone and observe how the waveform behaves on the display.

Checking recording quality

After saving the audio, it should be played back to assess voice clarity. If the voice is captured clearly, the microphone is operating correctly. Otherwise, it is recommended to seek assistance from an accredited technical service.

Specific test on Samsung

On Samsung devices, the test can be performed through the Samsung Members application. After opening the app and, if necessary, registering on the platform, the user should access the 'Diagnostics' tab and select 'Phone Diagnostics' to map the components. Upon locating the 'Microphone' icon in the hardware list, tap it and then 'Record', speaking near the device. Afterward, tapping 'Play' allows you to evaluate the recording. If it is correct, confirm by tapping 'Yes', repeating the process with the second microphone.

Reasons why the microphone might stop working

There are several factors that can prevent the microphone from functioning. These can include physical obstructions, such as dust or protective cases covering the microphone grille; or system blocks, where the privacy settings of the iPhone or Android have disabled access. Other causes include denial of access by a specific application, connection conflicts with Bluetooth headphones or background running applications, sound adjustments like 'Do Not Disturb' mode, or temporary software failures, such as bugs after updates.

Alternative solutions for microphone problems

If native tests are unsuccessful, some additional actions may help. It is advisable to restart the device and disable Bluetooth to eliminate temporary glitches and ensure that the audio is not stuck in paired accessories. It is also important to clean the sound inputs, removing cases and using a soft brush on the grille. Users should check the system's privacy permissions to ensure the microphone is released for the necessary apps.

Software and application maintenance

Other measures include closing all background applications, updating the operating system, and clearing the cache of problematic applications to remove corrupted files. If the error is isolated to a single application, reinstalling it may restore its original settings. If none of these steps resolve the issue, it may indicate physical damage to the part or the audio controller chip, requiring specialized technical support.

Component replacement

Although it is technically possible to replace the microphone, in modern models, this component is usually soldered onto a sub-board or integrated into the flex cable. For this reason, repair often involves replacing the entire module, not just the individual part. Due to high complexity, which requires precision tools and microsoldering techniques, the service must be carried out at an authorized technical service to guarantee the use of original parts and the integrity of the device.

Starting in February 2027, Logitech will begin selling wireless mice whose batteries can be replaced by the consumer themselves, although this feature will be limited to the European market. In all other regions of the globe, the manufacturer will maintain the offering of conventional models, which have sealed power cells inside the product body.

Adaptation to European Union standards

Robin Piispanen, head of Logitech's gaming division, informed The Verge in an interview that this change is in compliance with European Union requirements. This approach mirrors the strategy adopted by Nintendo last month, when the Japanese company facilitated the replacement of the Switch 2 battery only in countries within the bloc.

Piispanen clarified that Logitech has decided to segment its production into two distinct lines: one version adjusted to European legislation and another intended for the international market. The justification for this differentiation involves aspects such as the final weight of the mice and ensuring user safety.

Engineering and safety differences

Currently, most of the brand's wireless peripherals use common batteries or soft-pack type batteries, which contain lithium polymer cells protected by a flexible layer and connected to the main board by thin wires. This configuration allows for the creation of lighter devices.

However, this design presents vulnerabilities. Soft-pack batteries pose risks if handled by individuals without technical knowledge. Accidental damage, such as puncturing during a DIY repair, can cause short circuits or even start a fire.

To comply with the EU's Right to Repair Directive, which stipulates the need for safe and accessible maintenance for lay users, the manufacturer will be obliged to use hard-pack batteries. These latter have cells encapsulated in rigid plastic casings, thus preventing mechanical damage.

This additional protection implies an increase in the device's weight. Since there are no regulations requiring this change outside of Europe, the company considers it unfeasible to impose such a requirement on consumers in the Americas or Asia. Additionally, Logitech claims that market studies indicate that the global public tends to treat the accessory as disposable, without the habit of opening it to perform repairs when the battery loses capacity.

Existing models and ease of repair

Logitech's own catalog questions the claim that simplifying repairs harms product engineering. The MX Master 4, considered the brand's main productivity mouse, already has a construction that facilitates battery replacement. This model is sold in Brazil for R$ 799.

An analysis conducted by iFixit demonstrated that the internal structure of this peripheral already allows for a relatively simple battery change, requiring only the removal of a basic set of screws. This suggests that the device may have been designed considering EU guidelines.

It is relevant to mention that in January 2025, Logitech released a press release emphasizing its efforts to make electronics repairs easier, reinforcing its commitment to helping customers extend the life of their products and avoid electronic waste.

Limitations in home repair

Besides batteries, a mouse's durability is often determined by the wear of mechanical switches, which can start showing double-click failures over time, and by the deterioration of the side grip rubbers. When questioned about the lack of official spare parts for these natural wear-and-tear issues, Piispanen discouraged home repair.

Replacing a switch requires completely opening the mouse structure. According to the brand's perspective, this increases the probability of an average user damaging plastic fixing clips. Replacing the rubbers would require cleaning the original adhesive and applying a new adhesive with great precision, a procedure classified as laborious.

Despite skepticism regarding home repairs, the company stated that it will conduct a study to determine which spare parts can be safely made available in the future.

Samsung's Galaxy Buds4 Pro feature sophisticated capabilities, including robust artificial intelligence, efficient noise cancellation, and high-quality audio, promising top-tier functionality in a compact design. However, a detailed analysis reveals certain significant restrictions regarding the use of these earbuds.

Design and Durability

In terms of appearance, the Galaxy Buds4 Pro maintain a stem form factor, designed for a secure fit in the ear, and feature a plastic body with a discreet finish. They are certified with IP57, which ensures protection against dust and resistance to water immersion, making them suitable for use in the rain or during intense exercise. Users can replace the silicone tips, which come in three distinct sizes, to ensure the best personal fit.

The earbuds are controlled via the sides, allowing functions such as play, pause, or skip tracks to be activated by taps. These actions can be customized through the Samsung mobile device application.

Audio Quality and AI Features

Internally, the device uses two independent speakers—one dedicated to bass and another to treble—aiming to provide more balanced sound. If the standard sound is not satisfactory, the app provides a nine-band equalizer, giving the user complete control over frequency adjustment.

For phone calls, the microphone system works to filter background noise and clarify the voice. However, the effectiveness of this processing depends on the environment; in extremely noisy places, such as busy streets, perfect speech isolation can be challenging.

A central highlight of the Galaxy Buds4 Pro is the integration with Samsung's Galaxy AI. This AI enables features such as real-time translation and the ability to detect head movements to accept or reject calls. Furthermore, voice commands allow for music control without needing keywords, optimizing the user experience. Additional features, such as spatial audio and high-fidelity transmission, only operate when the earbuds are connected to other Samsung devices.

Samsung Ecosystem Limitations

It is crucial to note that many of these advanced functionalities are conditional upon having specific software on the smartphone, being restricted to users of Samsung Galaxy phones. This limits the appeal of the earbuds to consumers of other brands.

Connectivity also presents a limitation: the Galaxy Buds4 Pro establish a special link with Samsung devices, enabling automatic switching between a brand's laptop, phone, or tablet. This feature reinforces ecosystem dependency. On devices from other manufacturers, performance remains functional but is limited to the basic capabilities expected of a high-end pair of earbuds.

Support for the Auracast standard allows audio transmission to other compatible equipment in the same space, maintaining a stable connection over moderate distances.

Battery and Overall Performance

When removed from the charging case, the earbuds offer approximately six hours of playback with active noise cancellation on, or about seven hours with the function disabled. The charging case provides additional charges, extending the total usage time to around thirty hours. This autonomy is considered adequate for daily use, supporting daily commutes and long periods of work without the immediate need for recharging.

For charging, the device accepts both the standard USB-C port and wireless charging pads.

Pros and Cons

The positive points include the delivery of high-quality audio, the ability to customize equalization via the app, powerful noise cancellation, and proven resistance to dust and water, allowing for use in various contexts. However, the main caveat is that a large part of the advanced features is tied to the Samsung device ecosystem. While owners of Galaxy laptops, tablets, or smartphones will have seamless integration, users of other brands will find difficulties, as outside the Galaxy universe, the earbuds offer functionalities comparable to more affordable models.