[Updated] Google Pixel 7 motherboard allegedly replaced to address issue with crackling or popping sound during calls

05:33 pm (IST): By glancing at the recent reports, it appears that some Pixel 7 owners are still experiencing this problem. Sadly, they cannot get rid of the distortions even by turning off 2G calling.

Original story follows:

With the Pixel 7 series, Google has turned out to be one of the top contenders in the Android market. Its faster chipset and performance-boosting features make for quite an enriching experience for users.

However, issues like blurry camera photos, missing lock screen media controls, and more render them far from perfect.

Google Pixel 7 making crackling or popping sound

Some Google Pixel 7 and 7 Pro owners (1,2,3,4) are now reporting an issue where they hear a crackling or popping sound during calls.

Same issue with mine. Super annoying. The 1st few seconds are fine then the crackling sound turns on. It happens even when the call is on speaker or not.
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Any updates after the speaker repair? I am experiencing the same issue with my Pixel 7 Pro. Crackling/Popping at above ~75% volume on phone speakers. Impacts calls, music (tested with Tidal,) and videos (tested with YouTube.) Wondering if I should RMA it or bring it in for a repair.
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We previously highlighted a similar crackling sound issue in Pixel 6 and 6 Pro devices. Reports suggested that it was due to a software-related bug that was subsequently fixed with the June 2022 update.

And now, it has resurfaced in Pixel 7 and 7 Pro devices but is not merely limited to normal calls. Some experience it while handling phone calls on loudspeaker or simply high volume, and others when using USB DAC.

Issue allegedly addressed

According to one of the affected users, the issue is triggered by a faulty motherboard. So, Google allegedly replaced the motherboard in an attempt to address the issue.

Those who were facing the sound issues when using a USB DAC seemingly got theirs fixed through a firmware update. And even though the December 2022 update mentions some improvements in USB audio, there’s no word on the crackling or popping sound issue during phone calls.

Are you in the beta? I reported a bug with this issue when using a FiiO K1 external DAC and they fixed it in the latest beta.
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If the latest update didn’t address the issue, those still affected can try asking Google to personally address the issue, either by replacing the motherboard or the phone itself, just like they allegedly did for one affected user.

We’ll keep tabs on the latest developments and update this article as and when something noteworthy comes up.

In the meantime, you can also check out our dedicated tracker where we have mentioned all the bugs and issues affecting Pixel 7 and 7 Pro users along with their workarounds if any.

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