iPhone 16e dictation not working after iOS 18.5 update, despite basic troubleshooting

I gt an issue with the dictation feature on my new iPhone 16e after updating to iOS 18.5. Since the update, the dictation function is no longer recognizing my speech. I have already tried basic troubleshooting steps including restarting the device, toggling the dictation setting, resetting the keyboard dictionary, and even a complete reset of the iPhone. The microphone itself appears to be working correctly as I can make and receive calls without any issues. This lack of dictation functionality is significantly impacting my ability to use my new phone effectively. I would like to know what steps can be taken to resolve this issue, or if this is a known bug that will be addressed in a future update.


[Re-Titled by Moderator]



iPhone 16e, iOS 18

Posted on May 25, 2025 08:50 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jun 4, 2025 11:30 PM

Problem resolved

Appreciate all the input here. I'm happy to report that my dictation issue is now resolved. After trying all the basic troubleshooting steps myself, and considering the advice given here, I took my iPhone to the iPlanet service center. They diagnosed the device and found an issue with the microphone in the bottom. They performed some diagnostic steps (I believe it might have involved a reset or similar process from their end) and the problem is now resolved. When I asked about the cause, they indicated it might have been a ‘software glitch.’ Hopefully, this information helps anyone else experiencing a similar problem.

5 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jun 4, 2025 11:30 PM in response to LDK_410

Problem resolved

Appreciate all the input here. I'm happy to report that my dictation issue is now resolved. After trying all the basic troubleshooting steps myself, and considering the advice given here, I took my iPhone to the iPlanet service center. They diagnosed the device and found an issue with the microphone in the bottom. They performed some diagnostic steps (I believe it might have involved a reset or similar process from their end) and the problem is now resolved. When I asked about the cause, they indicated it might have been a ‘software glitch.’ Hopefully, this information helps anyone else experiencing a similar problem.

May 26, 2025 08:57 AM in response to LDK_410

It's not always the iOS update's fault!  Many things can cause phone problems.  If you tell people you think it's an iOS update, it might make it harder to fix or find a solution for the real issue.



Remember, the right question often leads to the solution!



Was/Is your device Jailbroken? If that's the situation, please be informed that attributing the issues to iOS updates may not be accurate.



iOS updates aim to enhance user experience, boost security, and fix bugs rather than disrupt core features. The majority of the issues after updates might stem from underlying, unmentioned factors. Updates won't typically alter personal data but may refine settings or features. Backup before major updates for safety. Review Apple's update details and backup advice for a smooth process.


Kindly consider checking your settings and addressing any device issues before attributing the issue to external factors. This could be a pure coincidence that the iOS update affected the iPhone functions.


Before initiating a standard iOS update, it's advisable to create a backup. Have you completed this step? If yes, proceed with the restoration from the backup.



See what each update does: About iOS 18 Updates, About iOS 17 Updates, About iOS 16 Updates, About iOS 15 Updates, About iOS 14 Updates, About iOS 13 Updates, About iOS 12 Updates, and so on...



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iPhone 16e dictation not working after iOS 18.5 update, despite basic troubleshooting

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