iPhone 18 Pro users hit with unusual audio problem that left them thinking they were 'going nuts'
Apple is surely popping the champagne corks and celebrating a bumper 2026, as in addition to the standard iPhone 18 roster, we've got the first-ever folding iPhone on the way.
While the iPhone 18 is already out in the wild, you won't be able to get your hands on the iPhone Duo until the end of October.
There have already been warnings for Apple customers to watch out for iPhone Duo preorder scams, but this isn't the only headache facing the tech giant.
The rumours that we wouldn't be getting a standard iPhone 18 came true, but as some sit twiddling their thumbs in hopes of a budget model, others are more than willing to stump up for the premium versions.
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Unfortunately, iPhone users are reporting an audio issue with the 18 Pro and Pro Max that's apparently driving them 'nuts'.
What is the iPhone 18 Pro's audio issue?
Away from complaints that the iPhone 18 Pro is the heaviest model yet, several Redditors are calling out a crackling sound on their phones. Posting on Reddit, u/Zestyclose_Cold_9716 claims they're having problems with the iPhone 18 Pro Max they bought from Best Buy.
After setting up the phone, the OP says: "I have noticed that I would hear a popping noise coming from my upper or lower speaker, almost as if someone is pulling out a aux cord and you hear a brief click pop noise.
“I feel like it has happened a couple times during app switching and playing around with volume and possibly voice dictation."
They admit that things seemed to be getting better and they hadn't heard anything for a few hours for posting, although they also noticed a 'raspy' sound when playing songs at a higher volume.
Having tested Florence + The Machine's "Dog Days Are Over" on the iPhone 18 Pro Max and other iPhones, the issue seems to be isolated to the latest release.
Others in the replies are sharing similar grumbles, with one adding: "Honestly unexpected the first time it happened & hurt my ear but then it happened a few more times within the same 2 minute phone call.
Really disappointing, I’m hoping they’ll get it fixed with a software update. Otherwise I’ll have to go back to my iPhone 14 Pro."
Another said: "I haven't used my phone with high volume but I know exactly what ur talking about with the quick snap or crackle that the speaker does when doing stuff on the phone such as opening and app or switching between apps or random activities."
A third complained: "I was going nuts. Brought it back to the store, but as of today they are out of stock, so I got a refund. I hope it’s just some software bug, because I really want to get another one. We’ll see
It's much the same on the MacRumors forum, with further complaints about "intermittent popping sounds" and a “super faint tick/pop from the earpiece speaker."
Again, this seems to be isolated to the iPhone 18 Pro when compared to something like the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
Apple unveils 27.0.1 update
Apple is pretty quick at tackling issues like this, with the 27.01.1 update already dealing with freezing phones and crashes via an emergency fix. Unfortunately, the MacRumors forum confirms the update hasn't stopped problems with sound.
Even though the 27.0.1. update doesn't appear to have fixed the audio issue, you're still encouraged to go into General > Software Update and ensure that your iPhone is running the latest software.
Importantly, you're reminded to get in touch with Apple to share your grievances directly.
Considering the iPhone 18 Pro's infancy, many of you are still covered by Apple's two-week return policy if the audio issue is really causing you concern.
In the meantime, look out for an official response from Apple.