Why Your iPhone Might Be Muted
Experiencing silence when you expect audio on your iPhone can be frustrating, turning a potentially useful device into a source of missed calls and silent notifications. The issue of how to unmute my iPhone usually stems from a few common culprits, ranging from the most obvious physical controls to less apparent software settings.
Often, users mistakenly believe their iPhone is broken when a simple check of the Ring/Silent switch or volume buttons would resolve the problem. Other times, the sound might be redirected to a connected Bluetooth device, or software glitches can cause the audio output to malfunction. Understanding these potential pitfalls is the first step toward getting your iPhone's sound back.
The Ring/Silent Switch Misunderstanding
The most frequently overlooked reason for an iPhone appearing muted is its physical Ring/Silent switch, located on the left side, above the volume buttons. This switch has two positions: when orange is visible, the phone is in silent mode, and calls and alerts will not ring audibly. When the switch is not showing orange, the iPhone is in ring mode, and sounds will play.
It's common for users to accidentally trigger this switch when placing their iPhone in or removing it from a pocket or case. This can lead to unexpected silence, leaving the user puzzled about how to unmute their iPhone. The fix is as straightforward as flipping the switch back to the ring position.
Volume Settings and Software Glitches
Beyond the physical switch, your iPhone's software controls the volume for different audio types. The volume buttons on the side adjust media playback volume by default. However, if you're not getting sound for calls or alerts, it might be because the Ringer and Alerts volume is turned down low or muted in Settings. This setting is separate from the media volume and must be adjusted independently.
Software glitches, though less common, can also mute your iPhone. An app might be freezing audio output, or a system-wide bug could be preventing sound from playing. Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve these transient software issues, effectively unmuting your device.
External Audio Connections
Another frequent reason for perceived silence is an active audio connection to an external device. If your iPhone is paired with Bluetooth headphones, speakers, or even a car's audio system, sound will automatically route to that connected device. Similarly, if a wired headset is plugged into the iPhone headphone jack (on older models) or via the Lightning/USB-C port, audio will be directed there, not to the iPhone's speakers.
This routing behavior is intended to provide a seamless audio experience, but it can be confusing if you aren't aware that your iPhone is connected to something else. Users often ask how to unmute their iPhone when the sound is simply playing through an accessory they forgot was connected.
Ensure your iPhone is not connected to any Bluetooth audio devices before troubleshooting speaker issues; go to Settings > Bluetooth and toggle Bluetooth off temporarily if necessary.
Hardware Malfunctions
In rarer cases, the absence of sound could indicate a hardware problem with the iPhone's speakers or audio jack. If all software and physical settings are checked and confirmed to be correct, and audio still fails to play through the iPhone's internal speakers, a hardware defect might be the root cause. This scenario requires professional diagnosis and potentially repair.
The complexity of modern smartphones means that multiple factors can contribute to a lack of sound. Addressing the question of how can I unmute my iPhone requires a systematic approach, starting with the simplest checks and progressing to more involved solutions.
The most common reason for an iPhone appearing muted is an accidentally activated Ring/Silent switch.
Checking the Ring/Silent Switch and Volume Controls
The very first step in diagnosing any iPhone sound issue, and understanding how to unmute my iPhone, is to examine the physical Ring/Silent switch. This dedicated hardware control is designed to quickly silence or enable audible alerts and call ringtones. A small sliver of orange visible on the switch means your iPhone is in silent mode.
Locating and Operating the Ring/Silent Switch
To check this switch, hold your iPhone in portrait orientation with the screen facing you. The Ring/Silent switch is situated on the left edge, just above the volume up and down buttons. If you see a colored (usually orange) band peeking out from under the switch, it's in silent mode. To unmute audible alerts and ringtones, slide the switch towards the back of the iPhone, so the orange band is no longer visible. This action switches the iPhone to ring mode.
Understanding iPhone Volume Settings
Beyond the Ring/Silent switch, your iPhone has two primary volume controls managed within its software: Ringer and Alerts volume, and Media volume. The physical volume buttons on the side of the iPhone control the Media volume by default. This impacts the sound from music, videos, games, and apps.
However, the volume for incoming calls, text message alerts, calendar reminders, and other system notifications is controlled separately. To adjust this Ringer and Alerts volume, navigate to Settings > Sounds & Haptics. Here, you will find a slider labeled 'Ringer And Alerts.' Ensure this slider is not set too low and that the 'Change With Buttons' option, if enabled, is not causing you to accidentally lower the ringer volume when you intend to adjust media volume.
If the 'Change With Buttons' option is off, the physical volume buttons will only affect media playback. You must use the 'Ringer And Alerts' slider in the Sounds & Haptics menu to control the audible alerts for calls and notifications. Turning this slider up is a direct answer to how to unmute your iPhone's ringtone and alert sounds.
Testing the Speakers
Once the physical switch and volume settings are confirmed, it’s vital to test the iPhone’s speakers directly. The most reliable way to do this is by adjusting the 'Ringer And Alerts' volume slider in Settings > Sounds & Haptics. As you move the slider, you should hear a distinct clicking sound or a sample ringtone. If you hear nothing, even when the slider is at its maximum setting, it suggests a potential issue with the iPhone's speakers or the audio circuitry.
You can also test media playback by opening an app like Music or YouTube and playing a video or song. If you get sound during media playback but not for calls or alerts, the Ring/Silent switch is likely functioning correctly, and the issue lies specifically with the ringer volume setting. Conversely, if you get no sound at all for any audio, the problem might be broader, potentially affecting both speakers and the headphone jack/audio port.
Always check the physical Ring/Silent switch first when troubleshooting any iPhone sound problem.
Resolving Software-Related Sound Issues
When the physical controls appear correct, the next area to investigate for how to unmute my iPhone involves software configurations and potential glitches. These can manifest in various ways, from a single app producing no sound to a complete system-wide audio failure.
Restarting Your iPhone
A simple restart is often the most effective solution for transient software bugs that can disable audio output. When an app or the operating system encounters a temporary error, it can sometimes lock the audio channels, preventing sound from playing. A restart forces the iPhone to shut down all processes and reboot, clearing temporary memory and reinitializing all system functions.
For iPhones with a Home button, press and hold the top button (or side button on older models) until the power-off slider appears. Drag the slider to turn off your iPhone. Wait at least 30 seconds, then press and hold the top (or side) button again until you see the Apple logo. For iPhones without a Home button, press and hold the side button and either volume button simultaneously until the power-off slider appears, then drag it. To turn it back on, press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.
Checking App-Specific Settings
Some applications have their own internal volume controls or audio settings that can override system-wide settings. If you're experiencing no sound from a particular app, such as a game, a video player, or a communication app, open that app and look for its specific audio or volume settings within the app's menu. Ensure that the in-app volume is turned up and that any mute toggles are disengaged. This is crucial because an app can be muted independently of the iPhone's overall sound settings.
Disabling Do Not Disturb and Focus Modes
Features like Do Not Disturb and various Focus modes are designed to silence your iPhone during specific times or when you're engaged in certain activities. If your iPhone is not making audible sounds, it's worth checking if one of these modes is accidentally active. Swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen to open the Control Center. Look for the crescent moon icon (Do Not Disturb) or the icon representing your active Focus mode (e.g., a person silhouette for Personal, a bed for Sleep). Tap the icon to disable the mode. If it is active, the icon will be highlighted.
You can manage which notifications and calls are allowed to break through these modes in Settings > Focus. If you find that calls or specific app notifications are silent even when your iPhone is set to ring, reconfiguring your Focus settings to permit these sounds is essential to unmute your iPhone for critical alerts.
If an app consistently causes sound issues, try deleting and then reinstalling the app from the App Store; this can resolve corrupted app data.
Updating iOS
Software bugs are often identified and fixed in iOS updates. If you are running an older version of the operating system, it might contain a bug that affects sound output. To check for and install updates, go to Settings > General > Software Update. If an update is available, download and install it. Ensure your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi and has sufficient battery charge, or plug it into a power source, before starting the update process.
Resetting All Settings
As a more advanced troubleshooting step, you can reset all settings on your iPhone. This action does not erase your personal data, apps, or media, but it reverts all system settings, including Wi-Fi passwords, Bluetooth pairings, display settings, and sound configurations, back to their factory defaults. This can resolve complex software conflicts that might be causing the audio problem.
To perform this reset, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings. You will need to enter your passcode to confirm. After the reset, you will need to reconfigure your network settings and re-pair your Bluetooth devices, but it often resolves stubborn software-related issues that prevent your iPhone from producing sound.
A simple restart can resolve many temporary software glitches affecting iPhone audio.
Managing External Audio Connections
One of the most common reasons why an iPhone seems to have no sound, leading users to question how to unmute my iPhone, is its automatic redirection of audio to connected external devices. Your iPhone is designed to seamlessly switch audio output to headphones, speakers, or car systems for convenience, but this can be confusing if you're unaware it's happening.
Disabling Bluetooth Audio
Bluetooth is the primary method for wireless audio connections. If your iPhone is paired with Bluetooth headphones, earbuds, a speaker, or even a smartwatch with audio capabilities, sound will likely be sent to that device. To check if this is the cause, you need to verify your Bluetooth connections.
Open the Settings app and tap on 'Bluetooth.' If Bluetooth is toggled on, examine the list of 'My Devices.' If any device is listed as 'Connected,' your iPhone's audio will be routed to it. To unmute your iPhone's speakers, either turn off Bluetooth entirely by toggling the switch at the top of the Bluetooth settings screen, or disconnect from the specific device by tapping the 'i' icon next to its name and selecting 'Disconnect.' If you want to prevent this from happening in the future, you can unpair the device entirely.
Checking Wired Connections
For iPhones with a headphone jack (iPhone 6s and earlier), a plugged-in wired headset will prevent sound from playing through the iPhone's speakers. Ensure no headphones or auxiliary cables are inserted into the headphone jack. Even if you've removed them, a small amount of debris or lint can sometimes cause the iPhone to think a jack is still plugged in, which can persistently mute the speakers.
For newer iPhones that rely on the Lightning port for wired audio accessories, check that no adapter or cable is connected to the charging port that is intended for audio output. A faulty or dirty Lightning port can also sometimes mislead the iPhone into thinking an accessory is attached. Gently clean the Lightning port with a soft, dry brush or compressed air if you suspect debris is an issue.
Using Control Center for Audio Output
Control Center offers a quick way to manage audio output for playback apps. When an app like Music or Podcasts is playing or has recently played audio, you can access its playback controls in Control Center. To open Control Center, swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen on iPhones with Face ID, or swipe up from the bottom edge on iPhones with a Home button.
Look for the AirPlay icon, which resembles a triangle with a circle above it, within the playback controls. Tapping this icon will reveal a list of available audio output options. If your iPhone's speakers are not selected, tap on 'iPhone' (or your iPhone's name) from the list to redirect the audio back to your device's built-in speakers. This is a crucial step in troubleshooting how to unmute my iPhone when sound is unexpectedly routed elsewhere.
Manually selecting 'iPhone' from the AirPlay output menu in Control Center ensures audio plays through your device speakers, overriding accidental connections.
Troubleshooting 'Headphone Mode' Issues
Occasionally, an iPhone might get stuck in 'headphone mode' even when no headphones are connected. This is usually due to debris in the headphone jack or Lightning port, or a hardware fault. If you suspect this, try cleaning the port thoroughly as described earlier. If cleaning doesn't help, the issue may require professional service, as the iPhone's internal components may incorrectly detect an audio accessory.
The interconnectedness of Apple's ecosystem means that audio management is sophisticated, but also prone to user confusion. Being aware of where audio can be routed is key to resolving perceived muting issues and understanding how to unmute your iPhone effectively.
Always check Bluetooth and wired connections before assuming your iPhone's speakers are faulty.
Addressing iPhone Speaker and Microphone Issues
Beyond general sound output, specific issues with the iPhone's speakers or microphone can lead to problems that might be perceived as the device being muted. Understanding these distinct components is vital for a comprehensive solution to how can I unmute my iPhone, especially when calls or voice memos are involved.
Diagnosing Speaker Problems
The iPhone has multiple speakers: a main speaker at the bottom and an earpiece speaker at the top that also functions as a secondary speaker for stereo sound. If you're experiencing no sound, or distorted sound, from one or both of these, it's important to identify the scope of the problem.
If you can't hear callers, but media plays fine, the issue might be with the earpiece speaker. If media also fails, it points to the main bottom speaker or a system-wide audio path problem.
Testing the speakers involves playing various types of audio. Use the Settings app > Sounds & Haptics to test the 'Ringer And Alerts' volume, listen for the sample sounds. Then, play a song from the Music app or a video from YouTube. If you hear sound from one speaker but not the other, or if the sound is crackly or muffled, it could indicate a blockage or a hardware issue specific to that speaker. Ensure the speaker grilles are clean and free of debris, which can easily obstruct sound.
Troubleshooting the iPhone Microphone
While the question is about muting, a non-functioning microphone can indirectly lead to confusion about sound. For example, during a phone call, if the other person cannot hear you, you might mistakenly think your entire phone is muted, or that it's a speaker issue. Your iPhone has multiple microphones, typically one at the bottom near the charging port, one on the rear near the camera, and one in the earpiece.
To test the microphone, open the Voice Memos app. Tap the record button and speak into the phone. Tap the record button again to stop. Play back the recording. If you hear your voice clearly, the primary microphone is working. If you can't hear yourself or the recording is silent or garbled, there's a microphone issue. This could be due to obstruction, software settings, or hardware failure.
For issues during calls, the iPhone often uses the earpiece microphone. If callers can't hear you, and voice memos work, the problem might be with the earpiece microphone or the cellular signal affecting call audio transmission, rather than a general muting problem.
For issues with the iPhone mic is not working during calls, try switching to speakerphone during the call; if the other person can hear you then, the issue is likely specific to the earpiece mic.
Checking for Obstructions and Damage
Both speaker grilles and microphone openings are small and can easily become clogged with dust, lint, or debris, especially if the iPhone is frequently kept in pockets or bags. Carefully inspect these openings using a bright light. Use a soft, dry, non-metallic brush (like a clean toothbrush or a specialized electronics cleaning brush) to gently dislodge any debris. Avoid using sharp objects or compressed air directly into the openings, as this could cause damage.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you've exhausted all the software troubleshooting steps, checked physical controls, managed external connections, and cleaned all openings, yet your iPhone still produces no sound or has a non-functional microphone, it's likely a hardware problem. This could range from a faulty speaker or microphone component to a more serious issue with the logic board or internal audio chip.
In such cases, the best course of action is to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store or an authorized service provider. They have the diagnostic tools to pinpoint the exact hardware fault and can advise on repair or replacement options. Attempting to repair internal hardware yourself is not recommended unless you have specialized knowledge and tools, as it can void any remaining warranty and cause further damage.
Speaker and microphone issues require specific troubleshooting distinct from general muting problems.
Understanding Audio Routing and Bluetooth Headsets
The way your iPhone routes audio is sophisticated, and understanding this process is key to solving how to unmute my iPhone, particularly when dealing with wireless accessories like a Bluetooth phone headset. When a Bluetooth device is connected, your iPhone automatically prioritizes sending all audio through it, rather than its internal speakers.
How Bluetooth Audio Routing Works
When you turn on Bluetooth on your iPhone and have a compatible device within range, the iPhone will attempt to connect. Once paired and connected, the iPhone's operating system treats the Bluetooth device as the primary audio output. This means any sound generated by your iPhone – from ringtones and notifications to music and video audio – will be directed to the Bluetooth headset or speaker.
This seamless transfer is a major convenience for users who frequently use wireless headphones for calls, listening to music, or watching videos. However, if you've connected a Bluetooth headset and then forgotten it's still connected, you might later wonder why your iPhone's speakers are silent. The iPhone isn't muted; the sound is simply playing elsewhere.
Managing Bluetooth Connections
The most direct way to unmute your iPhone's speakers when a Bluetooth device is connected is to manage that connection. As detailed previously, you can turn off Bluetooth entirely in the Settings app. Alternatively, you can disconnect from a specific device without disabling Bluetooth for all devices.
To disconnect from a specific Bluetooth device:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap on 'Bluetooth.'
- Locate the connected device in the 'My Devices' list.
- Tap the information icon (a lowercase 'i' in a circle) next to the device name.
- Tap 'Disconnect.'
This will immediately reroute audio back to your iPhone's speakers. If you no longer wish to use that device, you can also tap 'Forget This Device' from the same menu, which will unpair it completely, requiring you to go through the pairing process again if you wish to reconnect later.
When Bluetooth Causes Unexpected Muting
Sometimes, a Bluetooth device might appear disconnected, yet the iPhone continues to route audio to it, or the connection might be unstable, causing audio dropouts or silence. This can happen due to low battery on the accessory, interference, or software glitches within either the iPhone or the accessory itself.
If you suspect a Bluetooth issue is preventing your iPhone's sound, try the following:
- Turn Bluetooth off and on again: Go to Settings > Bluetooth and toggle the switch off, wait a few seconds, then toggle it back on.
- Restart your iPhone: As discussed earlier, this can resolve temporary software conflicts.
- Restart your Bluetooth accessory: Turn the headset or speaker off and then back on.
- Re-pair the device: If problems persist, 'Forget This Device' in your iPhone's Bluetooth settings and then re-pair it by putting the accessory in pairing mode and selecting it from the 'Other Devices' list.
Checking for Software Updates for Accessories
While less common, some advanced Bluetooth accessories, especially those from major brands, might have companion apps that allow for firmware updates. Outdated firmware on the accessory could potentially cause connectivity or audio routing issues. Check the manufacturer's website or app store for any updates related to your Bluetooth phone headset or speaker.
To ensure your iPhone always uses its speakers when you intend it to, disable Bluetooth when not actively using a connected audio device.
Audio in Cars and Other Systems
Similarly, if your iPhone is connected to a car's infotainment system via Bluetooth (for calls or music) or via a USB cable (for CarPlay or direct audio playback), audio will be routed through the car's speakers. If you're trying to play audio on your phone after parking the car, but the sound is still routed through the car's system, you'll need to check the car's audio settings or disconnect your iPhone's Bluetooth connection from the car's system. The process for this varies greatly by car model.
Understanding how your iPhone interacts with external audio devices is fundamental to managing its sound output and resolving any perceived muting. By systematically checking these connections, you can often find the answer to how can I unmute my iPhone.
The iPhone automatically routes sound to connected Bluetooth devices, which is a common reason for silence.
Advanced Troubleshooting and When to Get Help
When basic checks and software adjustments don't resolve the issue, and you're still trying to figure out how to unmute my iPhone, it's time to consider more advanced troubleshooting steps or seek professional assistance. These situations often point towards deeper software conflicts or hardware failures.
DFU Mode and Restoration
A Device Firmware Update (DFU) mode is a deeper level of recovery for iOS devices than a standard restart or reset. It allows you to restore your iPhone using iTunes or Finder on a computer, even if the operating system is corrupted. This is a drastic step that reinstates the iPhone's firmware from scratch.
Warning: A DFU restore will erase all data on your iPhone. Therefore, it's crucial to back up your device beforehand if possible. Entering DFU mode varies by iPhone model and requires specific button combinations. This process is typically recommended only when other methods have failed and you are comfortable with potentially data-loss scenarios.
If you've performed a DFU restore and still experience no sound, it strongly suggests a hardware fault. This is because the DFU mode effectively reinstalls the entire operating system, bypassing any software configurations that might have been causing the issue.
Checking for Water Damage or Physical Trauma
Accidental water exposure or physical impact can severely damage the internal audio components of an iPhone. Even if the device appears to function normally otherwise, water damage can cause corrosion over time, and a significant drop can dislodge internal connections or fracture speaker or microphone components.
iPhones have Liquid Contact Indicators (LCIs) that change color (usually to red or pink) when exposed to liquid. While not always definitive, their state can be an indicator for service technicians. If your iPhone has recently been exposed to water or has suffered a notable fall, this is a critical factor to consider when diagnosing sound problems.
Contacting Apple Support
If you've gone through all the troubleshooting steps—checking physical switches, volume levels, Bluetooth connections, restarting, resetting settings, and even considering a DFU restore—and your iPhone remains silent, it's time to reach out to Apple's official support channels. Apple provides several ways to get help:
- Apple Support Website: Visit support.apple.com to find articles, troubleshooting guides, and options to connect with support via chat or phone.
- Apple Support App: Download the Apple Support app from the App Store for dedicated assistance.
- In-Person Visit: Schedule an appointment at an Apple Store or an authorized Apple service provider.
When you contact support, be prepared to describe the problem in detail, including all the troubleshooting steps you've already taken. This will help them diagnose the issue more efficiently. They can perform advanced diagnostics and determine if your iPhone requires repair or replacement.
Understanding Warranty and Service Options
If your iPhone is still under warranty or covered by AppleCare+, repairs or replacements for hardware faults are often covered. However, accidental damage, like water damage or severe physical impact, is typically not covered by the standard warranty and may incur a service fee. Apple's service advisors will provide clarity on your specific situation and costs involved.
Before visiting an Apple Store, check your AppleCare+ status and service eligibility on Apple's support website using your iPhone's serial number.
When is the iPhone Muted by Default?
It is important to note that an iPhone is never 'muted' by default in a way that prevents all sound permanently. The 'mute' state is always a temporary condition caused by user-configured settings (like the Ring/Silent switch, volume levels, Focus modes) or potential hardware/software malfunctions. The question of how can I unmute my iPhone is always about reversing or fixing one of these temporary states.
For issues that persist after all user-level troubleshooting, professional intervention is the most reliable path forward to restore full functionality.
Persistent sound issues after all other troubleshooting steps strongly indicate a hardware problem.
Preventing Future 'Muted' Issues
Learning how to unmute my iPhone is a valuable skill, but preventing the problem from recurring is even better. Many sound issues can be avoided with simple habits and awareness of your device's settings and capabilities.
Mind the Ring/Silent Switch
The most straightforward preventative measure is to be mindful of the physical Ring/Silent switch. Make it a habit to check its position before important meetings, events, or times when you absolutely need to hear your phone. If you often find yourself accidentally triggering it, consider using a case that offers a bit more protection or a firmer grip around the switch, or simply be more deliberate when handling your phone.
Managing Volume Settings Consciously
Regularly check both your Media volume and your Ringer and Alerts volume. If you find that your alarm volume is too low, for instance, you might want to adjust the 'Ringer And Alerts' slider higher and ensure the 'Change With Buttons' setting is managed appropriately. Some users prefer to keep 'Change With Buttons' off to maintain a consistent ringer volume, adjusting media volume only when needed.
Awareness of Bluetooth Connections
Be more aware of when your iPhone connects to Bluetooth devices. If you've used headphones or paired with a car stereo, remember to disconnect or turn off Bluetooth when you're finished if you want to hear sound from your iPhone's speakers. You can also manage which devices connect automatically in the Bluetooth settings. For example, you might set a car's Bluetooth to only connect when you manually initiate it, rather than automatically every time you start the car.
Set custom ringtones or alert sounds for important contacts or app notifications so you can identify them even if your iPhone isn't immediately visible.
Keeping Software Updated
Ensure your iPhone's operating system is up-to-date. Apple frequently releases software updates that include bug fixes, performance improvements, and security patches. These updates can resolve issues that might affect audio performance or cause unexpected muting. Enable automatic updates or make a habit of checking for them regularly in Settings > General > Software Update.
Protecting Your iPhone from Damage
Physical protection is key. Using a sturdy case and a screen protector can prevent damage from drops and impacts. While not always foolproof, these accessories offer a crucial layer of defense against the kind of physical trauma that could harm the speakers or microphone. Avoid exposing your iPhone to liquids; if it does get wet, address it immediately by drying it off and seeking professional help if necessary, rather than relying on it to simply dry out.
Regularly Cleaning Ports and Grilles
Periodically clean your iPhone's speaker grilles, microphone openings, and charging port. Dust and debris accumulation can muffle sound or cause connectivity issues. A soft-bristled brush or a can of compressed air (used from a distance) can help keep these areas clear. This simple maintenance can prevent many common sound-related problems.
Understanding iPhone Notifications and Sounds
Familiarize yourself with the different sound settings available. You can customize alert tones for messages, mail, calendar events, and more. For instance, if your iPhone notification sound is too quiet, you can increase the 'Ringer And Alerts' volume. Some users find that increasing the alarm louder iPhone settings or using a particularly distinctive ringtone helps ensure they don't miss critical alerts, even in noisy environments.
By adopting these preventative measures, you can significantly reduce the chances of encountering sound issues and maintain a fully functional, audible iPhone experience.
Regularly checking the Ring/Silent switch and being mindful of Bluetooth connections are key to preventing silent alerts.