Quick Answer
There are a few common reasons why you may not be able to answer WhatsApp calls on your iPhone:
- Your iPhone is on Do Not Disturb mode – This mutes all incoming calls and notifications.
- Your iPhone is set to ignore calls from unknown numbers – WhatsApp calls will display as an unknown number.
- You have restrictions enabled that block WhatsApp – Check under Screen Time settings.
- Background App Refresh is disabled for WhatsApp – This can prevent calls coming through.
- Your iPhone has low storage space – Clear up space to resolve software issues.
- WhatsApp is not updated to the latest version – Update WhatsApp to fix bugs.
- Your iPhone software needs updating – Updating iOS can fix call issues.
- Your iPhone is in airplane mode – Turn off airplane mode to receive calls.
If none of those fixes work, try force quitting the WhatsApp app, rebooting your iPhone, or reinstalling WhatsApp. A network settings reset may also help resolve software bugs interfering with WhatsApp calls.
WhatsApp Call Functionality on iPhones
WhatsApp offers free voice and video calling functionality between WhatsApp users worldwide. This useful feature lets you make free calls to any of your WhatsApp contacts over Wi-Fi or mobile data.
On the iPhone, WhatsApp calls are integrated directly into the WhatsApp app. To make a call, you simply open a WhatsApp chat with a contact and tap the phone or video icon in the top right. Incoming WhatsApp calls will cause your iPhone to ring and display a WhatsApp call screen.
Answering and making WhatsApp calls on an iPhone is usually very simple. However, sometimes technical issues can get in the way and stop calls coming through properly on WhatsApp for iOS.
Common Technical Reasons Why WhatsApp Calls May Not Work
If you are having trouble with WhatsApp calls on your iPhone, here are some of the most common technical reasons why this can happen:
Do Not Disturb Is Enabled
The Do Not Disturb feature on iPhone blocks sounds and notifications from apps while it is activated. This includes muting WhatsApp call ringtones and call screens.
To fix this, open Settings > Do Not Disturb and check if it is switched on. Slide the toggle to off to disable Do Not Disturb and allow WhatsApp calls through.
Blocking Unknown Numbers
Incoming WhatsApp calls will display on your iPhone as coming from an Unknown number – not the contact name. If you have enabled the setting to block or silence unknown callers, it will block WhatsApp calls.
Go to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers and switch it off. This will allow calls from unknown numbers, including WhatsApp.
Restrictions Blocking WhatsApp
Parents can set restrictions on their kids’ iPhones to limit access to apps and features. If you have restrictions enabled, it may block WhatsApp calling ability.
Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions. Enter your passcode and check if WhatsApp is being blocked. Remove any restrictions on WhatsApp to fix this issue.
Background App Refresh Disabled
The Background App Refresh function allows apps like WhatsApp to update content in the background when not in use. If disabled, it can disrupt features like calls.
Enable Background App Refresh for WhatsApp by going to Settings > General > Background App Refresh > WhatsApp. Switch it on.
Low Storage Space
If your iPhone is low on storage space, it can cause instability and bugs in apps. WhatsApp may struggle to run properly and make/receive calls if your phone storage is full.
Check Settings > General > iPhone Storage and delete apps/media to free up space. Aim for at least 1GB free space. Restart your iPhone afterward.
Outdated WhatsApp Version
Make sure WhatsApp is updated to the latest version from the App Store. Older versions may have bugs and issues that disrupt call functionality.
Updating to the newest WhatsApp release can potentially fix call problems you are having.
Update iOS Software
Apple releases regular iOS updates to fix bugs and improve stability. However, outdated iOS versions are more vulnerable to app glitches.
Ensure your iPhone is updated to the latest iOS release. Go to Settings > General > Software Update to check for and install the newest iOS firmware.
Airplane Mode Enabled
With airplane mode activated on your iPhone, all network connections are disabled – including Wi-Fi and mobile data. This cuts off WhatsApp calling ability.
Slide the airplane mode switch to off in Control Center or Settings to disable it and restore network connections.
Wi-Fi or Mobile Data Connection Issues
Dead zones, weak signals, and network outages on mobile data or Wi-Fi networks can interfere with WhatsApp call connectivity.
Check your Wi-Fi and cellular data connections to confirm you have a strong, stable connection for optimal WhatsApp call performance.
Non-Technical Reasons for WhatsApp Call Issues
Some non-technical factors can also prevent you from being able to make and take WhatsApp calls on iPhone:
You Blocked the Contact
If you have blocked a contact in WhatsApp, calls from their number will not come through. Unblock the contact in WhatsApp to fix this.
Your Contact Blocked You
Similarly, if the other person has blocked you on their WhatsApp account, your calls to them will not go through. Ask them to unblock you to resume calls.
Their Device is Off/Offline
The person you are trying to call may have their device switched off, making them unreachable on WhatsApp calls. Try contacting them on another platform to confirm.
Bad Mobile Network Coverage
For mobile WhatsApp calls, both parties need sufficient cellular data connectivity for calls to connect properly. Check if they are in an area with poor coverage.
Banned WhatsApp Account
WhatsApp bans accounts engaged in abusive behavior like spamming. Calls will not go through to banned accounts. Create a new account with a different number.
Expired WhatsApp Account
Unused WhatsApp accounts get automatically deleted after 120 days. This deactivates the number, preventing any calls to that account.
Incorrect Phone Number
Double check that you have the right contact number saved for the person you are trying to call on WhatsApp. Calling a wrong or outdated number will fail.
They Aren’t a WhatsApp User
You can only call contacts who also have an active WhatsApp account. If they don’t use WhatsApp, calls to their number will not work.
How to Fix WhatsApp Call Connection Issues
If you are having issues with making or taking WhatsApp calls on iPhone, try these troubleshooting steps:
1. Force Quit and Reopen WhatsApp
Closing WhatsApp fully by force quitting the app and reopening it can clear out any temporary glitches. To force quit on iPhone, double click the Home button to bring up app switcher and swipe up on WhatsApp.
2. Update or Reinstall WhatsApp
As mentioned earlier, ensuring WhatsApp is updated or reinstalling the app fresh can resolve bugs causing call issues.
3. Reboot Your iPhone
Restarting your iPhone will clear out any memory issues or glitches affecting WhatsApp. To reboot, hold down the power button and slide to power off. Wait 30 seconds then power back on.
4. Reset Network Settings
Resetting network settings on iPhone will wipe all Wi-Fi networks and cellular data settings – which can fix connection issues. Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
5. Contact Your Carrier
For mobile network issues, contact your carrier for help investigating and resolving WhatsApp call connectivity problems.
6. Check WhatsApp Call Status
WhatsApp has a call status screen showing issues and call history. Go to WhatsApp > Settings > Calls to check for any errors or call problems.
7. Turn Airplane Mode On/Off
Toggling airplane mode off and on can force your iPhone to reconnect to networks, which may resolve temporary glitches.
WhatsApp Call Troubleshooting FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about troubleshooting WhatsApp call problems on iPhone:
Why do my WhatsApp calls drop?
WhatsApp calls can drop due to poor network connectivity, switching between Wi-Fi and cellular data, background app limitations on iOS, or other interference.
Why is my voice echoing on WhatsApp calls?
Echoes can happen because of microphone feedback issues. Adjust microphone settings, avoid using headphones, reduce volume, or use a different device to stop echo.
Why are my WhatsApp calls cutting out?
Choppy WhatsApp calls can be due to network congestion, traveling in and out of coverage, background restrictions, or an outdated version of the app.
How can I improve WhatsApp call quality?
Make sure you have a strong internet connection, limit background app usage, turn off battery saver mode, close other apps, and check your microphone settings.
Why are my WhatsApp calls using cellular data?
By default, WhatsApp will use mobile data for calls when connected to Wi-Fi but the Wi-Fi network lacks internet access. You can disable mobile data usage in WhatsApp settings.
How do I troubleshoot WhatsApp video calls?
Similar troubleshooting steps apply for video calls. Additionally, check camera, microphone, and battery usage permissions for WhatsApp. Update your device software and restart your device to help with video call issues.
WhatsApp Calling Tips and Tricks for iPhone
Beyond basic troubleshooting, there are some handy tips for getting the most out of WhatsApp calling on iPhone:
Use WhatsApp on Multiple Devices
With the multi-device beta, you can make/receive WhatsApp calls on up to 4 linked devices simultaneously. Useful if you have connectivity issues on one device.
Make WhatsApp Calls Over Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi calls can provide better quality than mobile data. Connect to a stable Wi-Fi network before your WhatsApp call for optimal performance.
Know When Contacts Are Available
See when your contacts were last using WhatsApp to gauge if they can take your call. Their profile photo will show when they were last online.
Use WhatsApp Call Shortcuts
Open your iPhone’s Phone app, tap Contacts at the bottom, and choose a WhatsApp contact to instantly call them on WhatsApp.
Share Your WhatsApp Status
Let your WhatsApp contacts know when you are available for calls by updating your WhatsApp status to show you are free to talk.
Upgrade to WhatsApp Business
WhatsApp Business offers useful call features for managing business calls like call queues, quick replies, and more.
Best Practices for Avoiding WhatsApp Call Issues
Here are some tips to avoid running into WhatsApp call problems in the first place:
- Keep your iPhone software updated to the latest iOS version.
- Don’t let your iPhone storage become completely full.
- Connect to stable Wi-Fi or cellular data connections for calls.
- Make sure you have the latest version of WhatsApp installed.
- Clear app caches and restart your iPhone regularly.
- Ensure your microphone is clean and not obstructed.
- Check WhatsApp call status after issues to identify causes.
- Contact your carrier if mobile network problems persist.
- Switch off battery saver mode and background app limits before calls.
- Avoid making WhatsApp calls in areas with poor reception.
Following best practices for iOS and WhatsApp will help avoid the majority of call issues.
Conclusion
WhatsApp calling is a very useful iPhone feature – when it’s working properly. If you suddenly can’t make or receive WhatsApp calls on your iPhone, some common technical issues are likely the culprit. Going through troubleshooting steps like force quitting the app, rebooting your iPhone, updating software, resetting networks, and reinstalling WhatsApp can typically resolve most WhatsApp calling problems. But issues like blocking contacts, expired accounts, banned accounts or network restrictions can also prevent calls from going through. Be sure to check for any settings changes on your end and the recipient’s end when diagnosing WhatsApp call issues. With some diligent troubleshooting, you should be able to get WhatsApp calling working again smoothly on your iPhone.