No Audio when using ear speaker

[AspenQn]

My husband's S23Ultra has just lost ability to hear audio through ear speaker and can only hear when on speakerphone. He has tried several fixes recommended by Samsung and ecen had Samsung take remote control but they could not figure it out. They recommended going into a Samsung authorized repair UBreakIFix store but we don't have one within 200 miles. We could go to a third party but will have to pay for repair. We also have phone insurance through Akko but if they aporove we have to meet a deductible and then they only reimburse at level commensurate with age of current phone and you have to get your own new phone.

We both had planned to upgrade when S26 comes out next year but not sure he can limp along. Any idea if the S26Ultra will be vastly improved vs a S25Ultra if he upgrades now?

Thoughts on a possible fix or should he just get a new phone?

 

[bearone2]

try a different headset!!

 

[AspenQn]

try a different headset!!

Headset is not the problem. Phone connects and works fine with headphones, two different sets earbuds but not always convenient to have to wear them.

 

[B. Diddy]

You've already looked closely to make sure the earpiece speaker grille isn't clogged with lint or other debris? Try scrubbing it with a dry toothbrush just in case.

Also, does the problem persist in Safe Mode? https://www.samsung.com/us/support/answer/ANS10003495/