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How to turn off Apple’s annoying Continuity microphone on iPhone

Learn how to silence the Continuity microphone on your iPhone and Mac. Discover the steps to take back control and avoid annoying notifications.

How to disable continuity mic on iPhone guide.
Image; KnowTechie

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Quick Answer: To silence the Continuity microphone on your iPhone and Mac, go to the Settings or System Preferences, select “General” or “Sound”, and toggle off “Continuity Camera” or disable your iPhone from the Input tab.

Let’s face it: not every Apple “feature” is a home run. Case in point: the Continuity microphone. While it might be handy for some, for others (like yours truly), it’s a royal pain in the butt.

I’m talking about those constant notifications on your iPhone, the annoying pings every time you fire up Logic Pro to lay down some drum tracks.

It’s like this “feature” has a sixth sense for when you don’t want to be bothered. These constant interruptions are a major buzzkill and a threat to anyone’s productivity.

Audio Disconnected iPhone microphone not available
Image: KnowTechie

Continuity Microphone is a feature introduced by Apple that allows users to use their iPhone as a microphone for their Mac.

So, how do you silence this thing for good? After countless distractions, I’ve discovered the steps to take back control. Apple doesn’t exactly make it obvious, but don’t worry, I’ve got your back.

Here’s how to shut down the Continuity microphone for good on both your iPhone and Mac.

How to disable continuity mic: step-by-step guide for iPhone

So, in order to cut ties with Continuity microphone, you’ll have to cut it off directly from the source: your iPhone.

If you do it from your iPhone settings, you don’t have to worry about the Mac instructions. But if disabling this option on your iPhone isn’t an option, the Mac instructions will work, too.

  1. Open the Settings app. It’s the one with the little gear

    Open Settings on iPhone home screen

  2. Scroll down and tap “General.”

    iPhone settings menu with General highlighted.

  3. Tap “AirPlay & Handoff.”

    iPhone settings menu, AirPlay and Handoff highlighted

  4. Toggle off “Continuity Camera.” Yes, I know, it doesn’t say “microphone,” but trust me, this is the one you want.

    iPhone settings with Continuity Camera enabled

Step-by-Step Guide for Mac:

  • Click the Apple menu and select “System Preferences.”
  • Click “Sound.”
  • Click the “Input” tab.
  • Look for your iPhone in the list of devices. If you see it, disable it by selecting on something other than your iPhone

NOTE: If you already disabled Continuity microphone on your iPhone, the you shouldn’t see it listed on our Mac.

And that’s it! No more annoying pings, no more Continuity microphone getting in the way of your workflow (or drum practice).

I get it—some folks might dig this feature. But if you’re like me and just want to be left alone to create (or heck, just use your computer in peace), then this little tip is for you.

For those who find selective use more beneficial, here’s how you can customize your settings without turning it off completely. Explore Focus Mode to prevent interruptions during crucial tasks.

Have you ever found yourself frustrated by Apple’s Continuity microphone or other seemingly convenient features that turn into distractions? We want to hear your thoughts! Share your experiences and tips in the comments below. 

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Kevin is KnowTechie's founder and executive editor. With over 15 years of blogging experience in the tech industry, Kevin has transformed what was once a passion project into a full-blown tech news publication. Shoot him an email at kevin@knowtechie.com or find him on Mastodon or Post.

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