Nexus 6P Call Problems: Causes & Fixes

The Nexus 6P has several known call-related issues, including the infamous “microphone bug” where the other party cannot hear you during calls, and sudden call drops or echo. These problems stem from a combination of hardware flaws, software bugs, and Android updates, but many can be fixed with simple settings changes or a factory reset.

Background: The Nexus 6P’s Call Reputation

Released in 2015, the Nexus 6P was the last flagship made by Huawei for Google’s Nexus program. It was praised for its camera and stock Android experience, but over time, users reported a distinct set of call-related failures. The most notorious is the microphone issue, where the phone’s primary microphone fails during voice calls, making the caller inaudible to the other party. This problem was widely discussed on Google’s product forums and Reddit, with many users noting it appeared after a few months of use or after a software update.

Other reported call problems include: the screen staying black during a call (proximity sensor failure), call echo, robotic-sounding audio, and random call drops. Some of these are hardware defects, while others are tied to specific Android versions or carrier settings.

How the Nexus 6P Handles Calls (Hardware & Software)

The Nexus 6P uses three microphones: one at the bottom for voice, one at the top for noise cancellation, and one on the back. During a normal call, the phone uses the bottom mic for your voice and the top mic to filter out background noise. If the bottom mic fails or is blocked, the phone may switch to the top mic, but that often results in the other party hearing a muffled or distant voice.

On the software side, the phone runs Android 6.0 through 8.1 (final update). Each major update changed call handling, and some introduced bugs. For example, Android 7.0 brought a known issue where the phone would not route audio to the earpiece during calls, forcing users to use speakerphone. Android 8.0 introduced a bug that caused random call drops for some users.

The phone also relies on the proximity sensor to turn off the screen when you hold it to your ear. If that sensor is faulty or covered by a screen protector, the screen stays on and you may accidentally press buttons (like mute or speaker) during a call.

Common Call Problems and Their Likely Causes

• Other party can’t hear you (microphone bug): This is the most reported issue. The bottom mic is often the culprit. It can be clogged with dust, damaged by a drop, or fail due to a hardware defect. Some users found that pressing on the back of the phone (near the camera) temporarily fixed it, suggesting a loose connection.
• Call drops randomly: Often caused by network issues, but also by a faulty SIM card or a software bug. If it happens on Wi-Fi calling, it could be a router issue.
• Echo during calls: The other person hears their own voice echoed. This can be caused by the noise-cancellation mic malfunctioning, or by the phone’s volume being too high.
• Screen stays black or won’t turn off: The proximity sensor is either covered, dirty, or defective. A screen protector or case can block it.
• Robotic or distorted audio: This can be a Bluetooth codec issue, or a sign of a failing audio processor.

Step-by-Step Fixes to Try First

Before considering hardware repair, try these software and simple fixes in order:

1. Restart the phone. This clears temporary glitches.
2. Check the microphone hole. Use a soft brush or a toothpick to gently remove any dust or lint from the bottom mic hole. Do not use water or compressed air.
3. Turn off noise cancellation. Go to Settings > Call > Noise cancellation and toggle it off. Some users report this fixes the “can’t hear me” issue.
4. Test the mic with a voice recorder. If the recording is clear, the hardware is fine and the issue may be software. If it’s muffled, the mic is likely damaged.
5. Update the phone. Make sure you’re on the latest Android version (8.1.0). Google released fixes for some call issues in security patches.
6. Boot into Safe Mode. If the problem disappears in Safe Mode, a third-party app is interfering. Uninstall recently installed apps.
7. Check the SIM card. Remove and reinsert it, or try a different SIM to rule out carrier issues.
8. Factory reset. This is a last resort. Back up your data first. If the problem persists after a reset, it’s almost certainly a hardware fault.

Hardware Fixes and Known Defects

If software fixes don’t work, the issue is likely hardware. The Nexus 6P had a known manufacturing defect where the bottom microphone’s solder joint could crack over time, leading to intermittent or complete failure. This is not user-serviceable without specialized tools. A repair shop can re-solder the mic or replace it, which is often cheaper than a new phone.

Another hardware issue is the battery. As the battery ages, it can swell, which may push against the internal components and affect the microphone connection. If you notice the back cover lifting or the phone bending, the battery may be swelling. This is a safety hazard and should be addressed immediately.

For the proximity sensor, cleaning the sensor area (top of the phone, near the earpiece) with a dry cloth may help. If not, the sensor may need replacement.

Comparing the Nexus 6P to Other Phones

Compared to contemporary phones like the Samsung Galaxy S6 or LG G4, the Nexus 6P had a higher rate of reported microphone failures. This is partly because the 6P’s bottom mic is mounted on a separate board that is more prone to flexing. Other phones use a more robust design. However, the 6P’s call audio quality (when working) was considered above average, with good noise cancellation.

In terms of software updates, the Nexus 6P received updates faster than most, but Google’s last update for it was Android 8.1 in December 2017. After that, no more security patches, which means any call bugs remain unfixed.

When to Replace the Phone vs. Repair

If your Nexus 6P has the microphone bug, consider the cost of repair. A mic replacement typically costs $50-$100 at a third-party shop. If the battery is also failing, that adds another $30-$50. If the phone has other issues (slow performance, poor battery life), it may be more economical to buy a new budget phone. A used Nexus 6P in good condition sells for around $100, so spending $100+ on repairs may not be worth it.

If you’re handy, you can buy a replacement mic module online for about $10 and follow a teardown guide. But this requires precision and risks damaging other components.

Preventing Future Call Issues

• Use a case that has a cutout for the mic hole.
• Keep the phone away from dust and moisture.
• Don’t drop the phone; a hard impact can loosen the mic.
• Periodically clean the mic hole with a dry brush.
• If you notice the phone bending, stop using it and replace the battery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can’t the other person hear me on my Nexus 6P?

This is usually the microphone bug. Try cleaning the mic hole, turning off noise cancellation, or using speakerphone to see if the top mic works. If none of that helps, the bottom mic is likely damaged and needs replacement.

How do I know if my Nexus 6P mic is broken?

Record a voice memo. If the recording is very quiet or muffled, the mic is likely faulty. You can also make a test call and ask the other person how you sound.

Will a factory reset fix call issues?

It can fix software-related call issues, such as those caused by a bad app or corrupted system files. But if the problem is hardware, a reset won’t help.

Is the Nexus 6P still supported?

No. Google ended software support in 2017. You won’t receive any more security updates or bug fixes.

Can I use Bluetooth or speakerphone to work around the mic issue?

Yes. Bluetooth headsets use their own microphone, and speakerphone uses the top mic. These can be temporary workarounds, but the underlying hardware issue remains.

Is it safe to open the phone to fix the mic?

It’s possible but risky. You’ll need a heat gun or hair dryer to soften the adhesive, and a plastic pry tool. If you’re not experienced, you could damage the screen or other components. Consider a professional repair.

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