12 Effective Solutions to Fix Apple Maps Voice Navigation Not Working on iPhone
Although many iPhone users prefer Google Maps for navigation, some still rely on Apple Maps due to its extensive coverage in certain regions. However, Apple Maps has had its fair share of issues, including incorrect route information and limited offline support. One common problem that users encounter is when the voice navigation feature of Apple Maps stops working on their iPhones. If you're facing this issue, don't worry, as we have compiled a list of effective solutions to help you fix it.
1. Unmute in Apple Maps
First, let's check some basic settings. If you have muted the voice navigation in Apple Maps, you won't be able to hear any audio in the app. To unmute it:
- Open Apple Maps on your iPhone.
- When you start navigation, tap the speaker icon in the top right corner.
2. Enable Directions Pause Spoken Audio
To ensure that you hear the directions clearly, you should enable the “Spoken Audio” option in Maps Settings.
- Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Scroll to Maps.
- Head to Spoken Directions in Maps Settings.
- Enable the “Directions Pause Spoken Audio” toggle.
3. Enable Location Services for Apple Maps
If you have disabled location services for Apple Maps, it may not work properly and fail to provide voice navigation. To enable it:
- Head to Maps in iPhone Settings.
- Select Location.
- Tap “While Using the App or Widgets”.
- Enable the “Precise Location” toggle to allow it to use your specific location.
4. Enable Background App Refresh
If you often fail to receive voice navigation when Apple Maps is running in the background, you should enable background app refresh for Maps.
- Go to Maps in Apple Settings.
- Enable the “Background App Refresh” toggle.
5. Increase Phone Volume
If you have turned down the volume on your iPhone to zero, the voice navigation in Apple Maps won't work. To increase the volume:
- Use the volume-up button on your iPhone.
6. Ensure an Active Internet Connection
Apple Maps requires an active internet connection to function properly with voice navigation. If you have network connection issues on your iPhone, try enabling and disabling the Airplane mode from the Control Center. You can also refer to our guide on fixing Wi-Fi problems on your iPhone.
7. Refresh Location Services
Disabling and enabling location services can help fix glitches with on-device navigation. Here's how to do it:
- Launch Settings on your iPhone.
- Scroll to Privacy & Security.
- Select Location Services.
- Disable the Location Services toggle and enable it again.
8. Disable Bluetooth
If your iPhone is connected to a wireless stereo, headphone, or car system, Maps' voice navigation will work on those devices. However, sometimes when you connect your iPhone to a car system, iOS mutes the phone. To fix this, disable Bluetooth on your iPhone and turn up the volume.
- Swipe down from the top right corner to reveal the Control Center.
- Disable Bluetooth. You can adjust the volume from the same menu.
9. Reset Location and Privacy
Resetting the location and privacy settings on your iPhone can help resolve the Apple Maps voice navigation issue.
- Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Scroll to General.
- Select Transfer or Reset iPhone.
- Tap Reset.
- Choose Reset Location & Privacy.
10. Enable Maps Directions on Radio
If your car supports it, you can hear spoken directions from Apple Maps while listening to the radio.
- Open Spoken Directions in Apple Maps Settings.
- Enable the “Directions on Radio” toggle.
11. Reinstall Apple Maps
If none of the previous solutions work, try reinstalling Apple Maps.
- Long-press on the Maps app and select Remove App.
- Confirm by selecting Delete App.
You can then download Maps again from the App Store and try using voice navigation.
12. Update iOS
Apple frequently updates the Maps app with iOS software builds. Updating your iOS to the latest version can help fix the Apple Maps voice navigation issue.
- Open General in iPhone Settings.
- Select Software Update and install the latest software build.
By following these solutions, you should be able to enjoy seamless voice navigation on your iPhone using Apple Maps. However, if Apple Maps continues to pose problems, you may want to consider switching to Google Maps for accurate voice directions on the go.

Jim's passion for Apple products ignited in 2007 when Steve Jobs introduced the first iPhone. This was a canon event in his life. Noticing a lack of iPad-focused content that is easy to understand even for “tech-noob”, he decided to create Tabletmonkeys in 2011.
Jim continues to share his expertise and passion for tablets, helping his audience as much as he can with his motto “One Swipe at a Time!”