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Why isn’t vibrate mode working on my phone?

So, your phone’s on vibrate mode, but nothing’s shaking? Try these tips from our in-house tech experts for a quick fix.

Check the Silent and Vibrate modes

iOS devices

Here’s how to check if your device is in the correct mode:

  • Verify that the “Silent Mode” is off:

    • If your phone has a “Ring switch”, move the switch forwards so that the orange bar is hidden.

    • You can also use “Control Centre” to check if “Silent Mode” is turned on.

  • Double-check that “Do Not Disturb” mode is off:

    • Go to “Settings” > “Focus” > “Do Not Disturb”.

    • Verify that it is turned off.

If the problem is the vibrate mode:

  • Go to “Settings” > “Sounds & Haptics” (for older iPhones, go to “Settings” > “Sounds”).

  • You can select if you want your phone to vibrate when it’s on Ring and/or Silent modes.

  • When you turn off both settings your phone won’t vibrate any more.

If the problem is the speaker mode:

  • Go to “Settings” > “Sounds & Haptics” (for older iPhones, go to “Settings” > “Sounds”).

  • Slide the “Ringer and Alerts” slider back and forth a few times.

  • If you’re still unable to hear anything, or if your speaker button on the “Ringer and Alerts” slider is dull, refer to the next step.

  • If you can hear something, try making a phone call with the speakerphone on.

  • If you’re using an iPad or iPod touch, make a call using FaceTime.

  • If you hear some crackling or if you can’t hear anything at all, then the issue could be related to your network – try calling later in a different location.

Android devices

Here’s how to check if your device is in the correct mode:

  • Check if “Silent Mode” is off:

    • Go to “Settings” > “Sounds”.

    • The Silent Mode button is grey when it’s turned off – if it’s blue, click the button to turn it off.

  • Check whether “Do Not Disturb” mode is off:

    • Go to “Settings” > “Sounds” > “Do Not Disturb”.

    • The button should be grey when it’s turned off; if it’s blue, click the button to turn it off.

Update your device’s software

iOS devices

  1. Plug your device into a power source and make sure you’re connected to Wi-Fi.

  2. Go to “Settings” > “General” > “Software Update”.

  3. You may see two software updates – pick the one you want to install.

Android devices

  • Go to “Settings” > “System” > “System update”.

  • You’ll be able to see your update status – follow the steps that appear on the screen.

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