Here's what ChatGPT has to say in response to your question:
That sounds super frustrating—especially after what was supposed to be a helpful update. Since you still have some functionality but no sound on specific sites like YouTube and Facebook, the issue might be more about software conflicts than hardware. Here are a few things to check (in priority order):
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1. Check Volume Mixer (Windows) or Sound Settings (Mac)
Sometimes after an update, specific app volumes get muted.
• On Windows:
Right-click the volume icon in the system tray → “Open Volume Mixer” → Check that browsers (Chrome, Edge, Firefox, etc.) are not muted.
• On Mac:
Go to System Settings → Sound → Check output levels and balance.
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2. Test Other Apps and Sites
Can you hear sound on:
• Spotify or local media (like a downloaded video)?
• Other websites besides YouTube and Facebook (e.g., Vimeo, Instagram)?
If other sites or apps work fine, it’s likely browser-specific.
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3. Try Another Browser
• If you’re using Chrome and getting no sound, try Firefox or Edge and see if the issue persists.
• If it works in another browser, consider clearing cache or resetting settings in the one that’s misbehaving.
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4. Check Browser Site Permissions
Browsers can block sound on specific sites.
• On Chrome:
Click the lock icon left of the address bar on YouTube or Facebook → “Site settings” → Make sure Sound is set to “Allow.”
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5. Disable/Remove Audio Enhancements or Third-Party Sound Apps
Updates can break compatibility with:
• Realtek audio enhancements
• DTS, Nahimic, Dolby Atmos
• Software EQs or mixers
Disable enhancements:
• On Windows: Sound Settings → Playback device → Properties → “Enhancements” tab → Check “Disable all enhancements.”
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6. Update or Reinstall Audio Drivers
Sometimes the update replaces or corrupts your drivers:
• Go to Device Manager → Sound, video and game controllers → Right-click your audio driver → “Update driver”
• Or uninstall, then reboot and let Windows reinstall the default.
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7. Clear Browser Cache and Cookies
Corrupt cached files could be interfering:
• In Chrome: Menu (three dots) → More tools → Clear browsing data
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If nothing works, I can walk you through logging system events or checking for errors via browser dev tools or system logs. Want to dig deeper that way?
