Connecting an external microphone to an Android phone can be a bit confusing, especially since not all video recording apps on Android work with external mics. In this guide, we’ll explain how to properly connect an external microphone to your Android phone.
First, it’s important to note that if you simply plug an external mic into the headphone jack, it won’t work. This is because the mic has the wrong type of plug with only three sections on it. To make the mic work, you’ll need a TRRS adapter like the one from StarTech.
The StarTech adapter is an inexpensive accessory that allows you to access the input and output connections inside the headphone jack. It looks like a Y-splitter but is wired differently internally. The plug has four sections on it, which is the key to making the mic work. The other end of the adapter has ports with headphone and microphone icons on it. Simply plug the microphone into the end with the microphone icon, then plug the TRRS adapter into your phone.
It’s important to connect everything in this order, or your phone might not recognize the mic. The StarTech adapter even has brief instructions on it as a reminder. Once everything is connected, you can start recording with your external mic.
It’s worth noting that all Android phones can record audio through the headphone jack with the TRRS adapter. However, the ability to use an external mic during video recording depends on the camera app. On some phones, like the Google Pixel, external mic functionality during video recording was introduced in a specific version of the camera app. Before that version, an external mic could only work with audio recording but not with video.
If your phone’s pre-installed camera app won’t record audio during video recording, you can try the free Open Camera app from the Google Play store. This app has been tested and definitely works with external mics for video recording.
Finally, if your Android phone doesn’t have a headphone jack, you’ll need an inexpensive USB-C to 3.5mm adapter in addition to the StarTech TRRS adapter.
In summary, connecting an external microphone to your Android phone requires a TRRS adapter like the one from StarTech. Simply plug your microphone into the end with the microphone icon, then plug the TRRS adapter into your phone. Remember to connect everything in the right order and check your camera app’s compatibility with external mics. With the right setup, you can easily record high-quality audio with your Android phone and external mic.