There could be a few reasons why your WhatsApp calls are not going through or connecting successfully. WhatsApp calling relies on an active internet connection and proper setup on both the caller’s and receiver’s devices. Issues like poor internet connectivity, outdated app versions, incorrect settings, blocked contacts, and device compatibility can prevent WhatsApp calls from connecting.
In this article, we will go over the main troubleshooting tips and reasons why your WhatsApp calls may fail or not go through. Following some basic steps can help identify and resolve the underlying problem, allowing you to make smooth WhatsApp calls again.
Check your internet connection
The most common reason for WhatsApp call failures is an unstable internet connection or low bandwidth on the caller’s or receiver’s end. WhatsApp voice and video calls require a minimum internet speed of 128 kbps for optimal performance.
Here are some things you can try to rule out internet connectivity issues:
– Restart your phone and reconnect to WiFi or mobile data. This refreshes the connection and clears out any glitches.
– Check if you can browse the internet and access other apps that require an internet connection. If other services are also affected, there is likely a problem with your overall connection.
– Run a speed test on your network connection to confirm if you are getting adequate bandwidth for a WhatsApp call.
– Try switching between WiFi and cellular data to see if one provides better connectivity. Move closer to your WiFi router for better signal strength.
– Contact your internet service provider if you consistently face slow speeds or disconnections. There could be an area outage or issue with your network.
Tips for improving internet connection
– Limit other bandwidth-intensive activities like streaming high-definition videos when on a WhatsApp call. This preserves bandwidth for your call.
– Disable automatic backups, large file transfers, and syncing of cloud content while on a call. These can consume connectivity in the background.
– Turn off WiFi assist on iOS devices which automatically switches to mobile data when WiFi is poor. This may lead to billing for large amounts of cellular data usage.
– Try using WhatsApp’s built-in call quality indicator and metrics to diagnose connection problems during a call.
– Move closer to your WiFi router, access point, or cellular tower for stronger reception. Avoid dense walls, buildings, and obstructions that can weaken signals.
Update to the latest version of WhatsApp
Having an outdated version of WhatsApp can also lead to calling issues and bugs. WhatsApp frequently rolls out updates to fix performance problems, add new features, and enhance call quality.
Not running the latest update means you don’t have access to the most recent optimizations and fixes. Here are some steps to update WhatsApp:
– On Android: Go to the Play Store, search for WhatsApp, and tap Update next to the app if an update is available. Allow the update to download and install.
– On iPhone: Go to the App Store, tap your profile icon, scroll to see available updates and tap Update next to WhatsApp. Alternatively, you can enable auto-updates for all apps in your iOS device settings.
– On Windows: Open the Microsoft Store app, search for WhatsApp, click the three dots next to WhatsApp and select Get Updates. Install any pending updates.
– On macOS: Open the App Store, click Update next to WhatsApp in the Updates tab if an update is available. Allow the update to download and install.
You should also check for updates manually even if auto-updates are enabled on your device, as sometimes they may not trigger immediately. Having the latest version ensures maximum compatibility and performance for WhatsApp calls.
Tips for keeping WhatsApp updated
– Enable auto-update for apps on your device preferences to regularly receive updates.
– Periodically check app stores for any WhatsApp updates pending. Install them as soon as they become available.
– Sign up for WhatsApp beta testing programs to get early access to latest features and updates. However, betas can be unstable.
– Update your device operating system through system software updates for best compatibility with latest WhatsApp.
– Clear app cache and data before updating to resolve any corrupt files that may cause issues. Re-register your number after an update if needed.
Check WhatsApp call settings
WhatsApp includes various settings related to calls that could affect your calling experience. It’s important to check that you have the right call preferences enabled. Here are some key settings to verify:
Cellular data for calls
WhatsApp calls can use cellular data when WiFi is unavailable. Check that this is enabled under WhatsApp Settings > Data and Storage Usage. Calling over mobile data may incur charges as per your cellular plan.
Low data usage for calls
This uses less data per call which helps in areas with poor connectivity. Enable it in WhatsApp Settings > Data and Storage Usage. Note that call quality may be lower.
WiFi calling
If offered by your carrier, this routes calls over WiFi for better connectivity. Enable it in your device network/carrier settings outside WhatsApp.
Notifications
Ensure notifications are enabled for WhatsApp under system settings. Alerts for incoming calls may not show if notifications are disabled.
Battery optimizations
Battery saver modes can restrict WhatsApp’s background activity and delay notifications. Add WhatsApp to the unoptimized battery usage list in device settings.
Microphone and camera access
WhatsApp requires microphone access for calls and camera for video calls. Enable these in app settings or system permissions manager as needed.
Network restrictions
If you face WhatsApp call issues only on certain networks like office WiFi or roaming data, check for any network restrictions or firewall rules blocking WhatsApp access.
Other WhatsApp settings to verify
– Call sounds and vibrations – Enable to be notified of incoming calls
– Blocked contacts – Calling may fail if the recipient is blocked
– Voice over IP usage – Should be enabled for calls over the internet
– Background app refresh – Keep this on for iOS devices
– App launch optimizations – Disable for seamless WhatsApp access on Android
Check for app crashes or conflicts
Technical issues within WhatsApp can also disrupt call functionality. Crashes, freezes or conflicts caused by other apps can prevent calls from going through properly:
– Force close and fully restart the WhatsApp app if it becomes unresponsive or stuck while making calls. This will clear any glitches.
– Update other apps on your device that may conflict with WhatsApp, like social media or messaging apps. Keep all apps current for compatibility.
– Uninstall or disable any third party utilities that modify or hook into WhatsApp. This includes privacy apps, ad blockers, themes etc. They can break intended behavior.
– On Android, clear WhatsApp data and cache from app settings or recovery mode to fully reset the app. Re-register your number after this to refresh WhatsApp.
– Check for any OS or firmware updates for your Android or iOS device to fix system bugs affecting WhatsApp.
– Try reinstalling WhatsApp as a last resort if calls continue to fail despite other troubleshooting attempts. This wipes any corrupt app data.
– Report persisting software issues and call bugs to WhatsApp by contacting customer support for investigation.
Preventing WhatsApp crashes and conflicts
– Don’t install unsupported mods and tweaks for WhatsApp. Only use official add-ons from the app stores.
– Limit multitasking while on WhatsApp calls as too many background apps can cause instability.
– Avoid unsupported beta OS versions which may have bugs affecting WhatsApp.
– Disable battery optimizations for WhatsApp to prevent forced closures or data restrictions.
– Regularly restart your phone and close background apps to free up system resources for WhatsApp.
Check if WhatsApp is blocked
In some cases, connectivity issues may arise if WhatsApp is blocked at the network or country level:
– WhatsApp calling is restricted in certain countries like UAE and China. You will face issues making calls via WhatsApp in these regions.
– If on a corporate or school network, WhatsApp access can be blocked by firewall policies. Contact your network admin for options to allow WhatsApp.
– Local internet service providers may throttle or limit bandwidth for WhatsApp in some countries, affecting call performance. Try using a VPN to bypass these restrictions.
– During network outages or emergency situations, governments can temporarily block access to WhatsApp and social media platforms.
– Install trusted VPN software to try bypassing any blocked WhatsApp access issues. Choose countries with stable WhatsApp connectivity through the VPN.
– Check sites that track global WhatsApp outages to identify any service disruptions in your area causing call failures.
– For travel abroad, research in advance about any calling restrictions in your destination country to avoid WhatsApp call problems.
Working around WhatsApp blocking
– Enable WiFi calling on your phone to make WhatsApp calls over WiFi even if mobile data networks have restrictions.
– Look for alternative calling options like Skype, FaceTime etc. if WhatsApp is permanently restricted in your region.
– Consider porting your number to a cellular provider that does not impose bandwidth limits on WhatsApp usage.
– Try scheduling WhatsApp calls during off-peak timings when network congestion is lower if you face frequent call drops.
– Maintain contact with relatives through WhatsApp messaging and media sharing if calling is unavailable due to local restrictions.
Check for recipient’s WhatsApp status
Issues on the recipient’s side can also prevent your WhatsApp call from going through:
Verification status
You can only call verified WhatsApp numbers. Ask the recipient to verify their number if your calls are failing.
Active status
The recipient must be online and actively using WhatsApp to receive calls. Your call won’t go through if they are shown as offline.
Battery optimizations
Background battery restrictions on the recipient’s device can affect WhatsApp functionality and prevent call notifications.
Do not disturb mode
If the recipient has enabled DND mode, call alerts may be silenced causing them to miss your WhatsApp call.
Network errors
Any network issues or connectivity problems at the receiver’s end can also lead to call drops or failed call attempts.
Account privacy
Recipient’s with enabled privacy settings may not be able to receive WhatsApp calls from contacts not in their address book.
Unsupported device
Very old or non-compatible smartphones may not support WhatsApp calling functionality leading to issues.
Troubleshooting issues on the recipient’s side
– Advise recipients to disable DND mode and battery optimizations for WhatsApp when expecting your calls.
– They should ensure WhatsApp has required permissions enabled to make calls.
– Recipients can switch between WiFi and cellular data to check if one provides better connectivity.
– You can ask the recipient to update to the latest version of WhatsApp on their device for maximum compatibility.
– Turning airplane mode on and off may refresh network connections and resolve temporary glitches at the receiver’s end.
Check for device compatibility issues
In rare cases, hardware or OS limitations can affect WhatsApp call performance if devices are outdated or incompatible:
Operating system
WhatsApp may stop supporting very outdated iOS and Android OS versions which can cause calling issues.
Hardware specifications
Very old smartphones with limited processing power or RAM may struggle with WhatsApp calling. Upgrade devices if facing consistent performance issues.
Dual SIM devices
Having two SIMs slotted in can create signal interference. Try using one SIM at a time to identify any improvements.
Jailbroken/rooted devices
Modified smartphones are not officially supported and can demonstrate bugs with WhatsApp calling.
Restrictive networks
Some carrier networks block WhatsApp call functionality on restricted device plans to upsell premium services.
Phone model specific bugs
Sporadic device specific bugs may affect WhatsApp call performance on some models. Check for any known issues online.
Solutions for device compatibility problems
– Perform a system software update to meet WhatsApp’s minimum OS version requirements if running a dated version.
– Try upgrading to a newer smartphone model capable of smoothly running WhatsApp calls if you consistently face performance issues.
– Turn on Airplane mode before making WhatsApp calls on dual SIM devices to eliminate signal interference by the inactive SIM.
– Use WhatsApp on an officially supported stock smartphone instead of unsupported jailbroken or rooted devices.
– Contact your cellular carrier to upgrade to a plan that does not restrict WhatsApp calling if limited by network policies.
Contact WhatsApp for support
If you still face WhatsApp call failures despite exhaustive troubleshooting, reach out to WhatsApp support directly for assistance:
– On Twitter, tweet @WhatsApp with your issue and registered phone number. Their team can look into unresolved call problems.
– Submit an email request to WhatsApp support from the Contact Us section on [www.whatsapp.com](http://www.whatsapp.com). Include device details and the call issue faced.
– WhatsApp frequently posts known calling issues and fixes on their portal at [faq.whatsapp.com](http://faq.whatsapp.com). Check for any updates relevant to your problem.
– You can request a callback from the WhatsApp support team on the Contact Us page to get personalized troubleshooting advice.
– Report persistent bugs not resolved by general troubleshooting steps so the WhatsApp developers can investigate and improve call reliability.
Information to provide WhatsApp support
– Your WhatsApp registered phone number
– Device model name and operating system version
– WhatsApp app version installed
– Whether issue is with voice or video calls
– Call error messages or issue reproduction steps
– Country, carrier name and wireless connectivity details
– Troubleshooting steps attempted so far without resolution
Conclusion
In summary, WhatsApp calls failing to connect or go through can be frustrating but the problem is usually resolvable with systematic troubleshooting. Start by verifying your internet connection strength and stability. Ensure you are on the latest WhatsApp version without app crashes. Check your WhatsApp settings to confirm calling is properly enabled.
Recipient related factors like account verification, active status, network quality and device compatibility can also influence call connectivity. Ruling out any service blocking restrictions in your region is also important. As a last resort, contact WhatsApp support if you are still unable to identify the root cause and resolve call failures despite troubleshooting.
Key points to remember
– Strong and stable internet is essential for WhatsApp calling to work reliably.
– Keep WhatsApp updated to benefit from the latest performance enhancements.
– Verify WhatsApp calling is enabled under app settings and system permissions.
– Issues at the recipient’s end can also prevent your calls from going through.
– Check for any country or network level blocking of WhatsApp affecting call functionality.
– Very old or non-standard devices may demonstrate calling bugs in some cases.
– WhatsApp customer support can advise if you face persistent call failures despite troubleshooting.