mic does not pick up sound

2013 macbook pro.. internal mic not working unless i plug in the headset....in other words say i want to talk to Siri she calnt hear me unless i plug in the head phones...done all the sound tests...could it be a hardware problem....i bought the laptop with this problem....sound output from the speakers are ok... say watching utube etc

Earlier Mac models

Posted on Nov 27, 2025 9:43 AM

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5 replies

Nov 29, 2025 8:43 AM in response to brbo

Thanks for that info...sorry i checked again i have the early 2015 model ..Monteray i did the diagnostics check ..nothing found i think i have a logic board problem.....i have had another problem for about six months....the click of death.... dont think its worth getting a new hard drive .... i did tests reset the SMC .. NVRAM then it was ok, few days later the crack noise is back with intermitant freezing up...time for a new laptop, but i will wait until it craps out...

Nov 29, 2025 1:45 PM in response to glennyboy751

What's new in the updates for macOS Monterey - Apple Support says macOS Monterey 12.7.6 iis the newest available version: "This update provides important security fixes and is recommended for all users".

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Re: intermitant freezing up:


Does the issue persist in Safe Mode ?

Start up your Mac in safe mode - Apple Support (Monterey)


If the issue doesn't continue while in safe mode, 

leave safe mode by restarting your Mac normally. 

Then test for the issue again. The issue may have been resolved.

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Also: many have found relief by checking through and turning off or uninstalling unnecessary or out-of-date software.

• Can be interference from VPN or third-party apps (like unnecessary virus checkers ad-blockers, cleaners etc)

• Any third-party apps found necessary need to be up-to-date with the installed MacOS for compatibility..

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If or when needed: Ways to start up your Mac - Apple Support for MacOS Monterey

Nov 29, 2025 1:55 AM in response to glennyboy751

Re: "mic does not pick up sound : 2013 macbook pro.. internal mic not working unless i plug in the headset"


Ensuring your MacBook Pro has the newest compatible MacOS update can often solve issues.

We don't know which MacOS version is installed on your 2013 macbook pro.

You can check via Apple menu > About this Mac


The newest MacOS version available for each Mac generally has the newest security updates and fixes available.


Identify your MacBook Pro model - Apple Support

says

MacBook Pro (Retina, 13-inch, Early 2013) and MacBook Pro (Retina, 15-inch, Late 2013)

Newest compatible operating system: macOS Big Sur (Newest version is macOS Big Sur 11.7.10 )

or

MacBook Pro (Retina, 13-inch, Early 2013) and MacBook Pro (Retina, 15-inch, Early 2013)

Newest compatible operating system: macOS Catalina ( Newest version is macOS Catalina 10.15.7 )


The linked articles above (for Big Sur or Catalina) have tips on how to get these McOS versions.

If you choose to update or upgrade your Mac: Please remember it is wise to back up your Mac first

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Assuming your Mac has the newest compatible MacOS version for that model installed:


Restarting your Mac (Apple menu > Restart) can often help restore order if something is not working:

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If you haven't already: You may want to go to System (Settings or Preferences) > Sound and make sure the microphone input volume level (and speaker output level) is set sufficiently (slider at least near the middle) to be heard without headphones plugged in.

(NB: If headphones have their own mic. you may have an option to choose headphones or internal microphone ?)

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Else: Apple Support's articles below may be helpful in troubleshooting:

Articles are for MacOS Big Sur, (or for accurate info you can choose your MacOS version at the top of articles).


Allow use of your microphone and audio input - Apple Support


Control access to your microphone on Mac - Apple Support

mic does not pick up sound

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