How to adjust the volume on your phone

Learn how to make your phone louder or quieter for calls, music, alarms, and notifications.

Easy 4 steps all ~6 min February 23, 2026

Step 1: Use the side buttons

Every phone has Volume Up and Volume Down buttons on the side. Press Volume Up to make it louder. Press Volume Down to make it quieter. A volume indicator will appear on screen.

Step 2: Adjust during a call

If you can’t hear someone during a phone call, press the Volume Up button while the call is active. The call volume is separate from your regular volume.

Step 3: Adjust media volume

When playing music or watching a video, press the Volume buttons to adjust the media volume. This is separate from your ringtone volume.

Step 4: Fine-tune in Settings

For more control, go to Settings > Sounds & Haptics (iPhone) or Settings > Sound (Android). Here you can set separate volumes for ringtone, notifications, alarms, and media.

Frequently asked questions

Why is my phone on silent?

On iPhone, check the small switch on the left side -- if you see orange, it's on silent. Flip it back. On Android, press the Volume Up button.

Can I set different volumes for calls and alarms?

Yes. In Settings > Sounds (iPhone) or Sound (Android), you can set separate volumes for ringtone, media, alarms, and notifications.

Why can't I hear the other person on a call?

During a call, press the Volume Up button on the side of your phone to increase the call volume. This only works while you're on a call.

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